Chances are your skin is super hungry and endures a constant thirst for Niacinamide, a booming term, is a powerful ingredient in the world of skincare. Renowned for its multifaceted benefits, niacinamide addresses various skin concerns and helps achieve a radiant, healthy complexion. This article delves into the remarkable effects of niacinamide, explaining how it works and how to add it to your daily skincare routine.

What is Niacinamide?

Vitamins are essential to our body and only few of us intake the right nutrition for glowing skin. Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3, an essential nutrient for the skin. It is a water-soluble compound, making it easy to blend with various skincare products. There are no skin type limitations to the use of niacinamide. With its versatility and efficacy, niacinamide is suitable for all skin types and addresses multiple skin issues.

History of Niacinamide

In the 1930s, millions of people from the U.S. were affected by an infection called Pellagra, which is a fatal sickness that first affects the skin and then overall metabolism of the body. Later, Joseph Goldberger's research outturned the belief that consumption of vitamin B3 would prevent and cure pellagra.

By 1945, the identification of this compound named the “PP” factor - Pellagra Prevention Factor and public education on including this compound in the diet resulted in the decline of disease.

Knowing the medical benefits of niacinamide in curing pellagra, various scientists researched further and discovered its ability to repair the skin including improving skin barrier function, reducing hyperpigmentation, and aiding in collagen synthesis.

How Does Niacinamide Work?

NAD and NADP are naturally produced coenzymes in the body. These coenzymes provide nutritional ( vitamin B3) benefits to our body. 

Their functions and roles are;

• NAD (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide):

  • Role: It supports energy production.

  • Function: Transfers electrons during metabolic reactions.

• NADP (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate):

  • Role: Participates in anabolic (building)reactions

  • Function: Acts as an electron donor for biosynthesis.

These coenzymes are involved in numerous cellular processes and are prominent for maintaining healthy skin cells, driving metabolism, and supporting cellular functions. As we age, the levels of these coenzymes can decline, which is why niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, is beneficial as it helps restore their balance, promoting healthy skin. consuming niacinamide is likely taking any other vitamin supplement. No harm!

Functions of Niacinamide

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Niacinamide is your best friend which boasts impressive anti-inflammatory properties. It helps reduce redness, irritation, and inflammation, making it particularly beneficial for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin.

Moisture Retention

One of the key functions of niacinamide is enhancing the skin barrier. A strong skin barrier retains moisture effectively and protects against environmental stressors, resulting in smoother, more resilient skin.

Oil Regulation

Our skin cells produce oil to sustain moisture on the upper epidermis or outermost skin. We address the oil as Sebum. Niacinamide helps regulate sebum production, which is especially advantageous for individuals with oily or acne-prone skin. By balancing oil levels, it reduces the frequency of breakouts and promotes a clearer complexion.

Hyperpigmentation Reduction

Not one of us would have escaped from dark spots. We have had it at least once in our lifetime. Niacinamide is effective in addressing hyperpigmentation and dark spots. It inhibits the transfer of pigment to skin cells, leading to a more even skin tone over time.

Benefits of Niacinamide for Skin

Various people have benefited by taking niacinamide in supplement and skin product forms. Some of the Prominent advantages of niacinamide are given below.

Enhanced Hydration

If you have dry skin, the use of niacinamide could be a game changer for you. Niacinamide improves the production of natural lipids and ceramides, which are crucial for maintaining skin hydration. This results in a plump and youthful appearance.

Anti-Ageing Effects

Who doesn't want to look younger? Regular use of niacinamide can diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Its ability to boost collagen production makes it a potent anti-ageing ingredient.

Protection Against Environmental Damage

Our skin is most likely in danger when it is directly exposed to the sun, particularly in the peak sun exposure. Niacinamide acts as a protective shield against UV rays and pollution, major contributors to premature ageing and skin damage. 

Medicinal Advantage of Niacinamide

Apart from its absolute perks of adding glamour to our beauty, Niacinamide has been widely employed for the treatment of 

• Acne vulgaris 

• melasma 

• Atopic dermatitis 

• Rosacea 

• Psoriasis 

while its oral administration for non-melanoma skin cancer prevention has also been studied 

Vitamin B3 or Niacin-Rich Foods

As we familiarised the role of niacinamide in the overall functions of our body, you can gain twice the amount of its benefits within a short period by integrating vitamin B3-rich foods into your diet routine. The following foods are the ones with high vitamin B3 presence.

1. Liver

2. Turkey

3. Chicken breast

4. potatoes

5. Avocado

6. Peanuts

7. Brown rice

8. Whole wheat

9. Mushrooms

10. Green peas

How to add Niacinamide into Your Skincare Routine

Like any other skin product, adding niacinamide to your skin routine is as simple as it is. You can stick to the following steps to obtain the best results for your skin.

1. Cleansers

Begin your routine with a niacinamide-infused cleanser to remove impurities while soothing the skin. 

2. Serums

Apply a niacinamide serum after cleansing to deliver a concentrated dose of the vitamin directly to your skin.

3. Moisturisers

Use a moisturizer that contains niacinamide to lock in hydration and provide continuous benefits throughout the day.

4. Sunscreens

Opt for sunscreens with added niacinamide to enhance protection against UV damage while offering additional skincare benefits.

Combination of Niacinamide with Other Compounds:

However, Niacinamide alone provides numerous benefits, combining it with other components would sky-rocket your beauty drastically. 

You can either infuse niacinamide with vitamin C or hyaluronic acid for better results. These two components blend without damaging or altering one another’s chemical structure.

Applying Niacinamide regularly reduces oil production on the skin, resources damaged skin and helps in minimizing skin pores - fixing eczema.

Hyaluronic acid keeps our skin well moisturized and healthy. The application of hyaluronic acid daily ensures your skin’s humidity balance.

Vitamin c on the other side aids your skin in toning and boosts face glow as it helps in the production of collagen, which assists in repairing damaged cells.      

Using them together:

• Niacinamide can help to regulate sebum production, which can sometimes counteract the hydrating effect of hyaluronic acid. Using them together can create a balanced approach to hydration.

• Vitamin C can be slightly unstable in water-based solutions, but niacinamide may offer some protection and enhance its effectiveness.

• For best results, apply them in this order: hyaluronic acid first, then niacinamide, and finally vitamin C. Because hyaluronic acid is lightweight and thinner compared to the other two which the skin observes with ease.

Note:

1. First, try one product and track the result before adding another.

2. Select goods with pH values that are compatible to prevent any instability.

3. Use them correctly, observe skin reactions and think about seeing a dermatologist for specific advice.

Niacinamide is a versatile and powerful skincare ingredient that can address various skin concerns, including hydration, anti-aging, oil control, and hyperpigmentation. Including niacinamide in your daily skincare routine can lead to healthier, more radiant skin.

Ready to elevate your skincare game? Start using niacinamide today and experience its remarkable benefits for yourself!