Ingredients highlight: Niacinamide

Sooo here is my new series and in every post I will highlight a new ingredient - a popular one or one that deserves more credit.

Today we are going to tackle Niacinamide (also known as Nicotinamide).

WHAT IS NIACINAMIDE?

Is one of the forms of Vitamin B3 also known as Niacin, which plays a vital role in converting the food we eat into energy and keeping our skin healthy. When we talk about skin care products we talk about Niacinamide or Nicotinamide.

As a water soluble ingredient it's mostly found in water based product and is perfect for all of you who don't like that oily leftover on the skin after application.

It's suitable for all skin types and works well with other ingredients.

SAY BYE TO ACNE AND ROSACEA

Applied topically or taken orally niacinamide has an anti-inflammatory effect on the skin. Therefor is helpful for treating conditions like acne or rosacea. It also helps to control acne by controlling the production of sebum.

IT HELPS PROTECT OUR SKIN

It absorbs easily and helps your skin to build a ceramid (lipid) barrier, which helps retain moisture and prevent dehydration. This also increases the elasticity of the skin.

In addition it helps to protect our cells from UV damage by speeding-up the DNA repair process.

WHAT ABOUT WRINKLES, FINE LINES AND PIGMENTATION?

There are few studies that show the effect of niacinamide on fine lines, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. Based on the available evidence retinoids and vitamin C will probably do more for you if your worries are signs of aging and pigmentation marks. But if you have sensitive skin then niacinamide is the way to go.

WHERE TO START?

For best results use it in leave-in products like serums, creams and toners. Start with low percentage so you avoid irritations.