Niacinamide: The ingredient taking social media by storm. Discover its 7 benefits and find out if it's a trend or a fact.

 

 

What is Niacinamide that's trending these days? All social media and girls' pages are talking about it.

 Is it really a magical ingredient that solves many skin problems, or is it just a trend and useless?

In this article, I will tell you what Niacinamide is and what it does so you can decide if it's suitable for you to include in your routine and if it's worth it or just a trend.

What is Niacinamide?

It is a form of Vitamin B3 that is very important for the skin when used topically.

What makes Niacinamide special is that it is suitable for all skin types (oily, combination, dry, and even sensitive).

And the great thing about it is that it can be used alone or with other active ingredients it works beautifully with.

7 benefits of Niacinamide that will make you decide why you'll include it in your routine

If your skin has many problems, first find out what Niacinamide does to decide if it will be good for it or not.

1. Reduces large pores (Pore Minimizer)

This is the most famous benefit of Niacinamide; it makes pores look much smaller and smoother.

  Because it regulates sebum secretion, pores don't fill up, enlarge, and become noticeable.

2. Strengthens the skin barrier

The skin barrier is what protects our skin; it acts as a protective shield through substances called ceramides.

 Niacinamide stimulates the production of ceramides, which are the main shield for the skin, maintaining its moisture and protecting it from harmful influences. 

When the skin barrier is strong, your skin will retain moisture longer and become more resistant to bacteria and dryness.

3. Regulates oil secretion (Oil Control)

For those with oily and combination skin, this will be your ideal friend.

 It sends signals to the sebaceous glands to regulate oil and sebum secretion, so your face doesn't shine all day, which in turn reduces the chance of breakouts.

4. Lightens spots and acne marks (Hyperpigmentation)

If you have old acne marks or sun spots, Niacinamide at certain concentrations (2% to 5%) can prevent the transfer of pigment (melanin) to the skin surface, which over time evens out skin tone and gives noticeable radiance, and is very ideal for red acne marks.

5. Anti-inflammatory and anti-redness

If your skin is sensitive with redness or inflammation, or inflamed breakouts, or you have "rosacea," Niacinamide acts as an excellent soother and significantly reduces redness and irritation.

6. Fights wrinkles and fine lines

Because it increases collagen production and acts as an antioxidant, continuous use makes the skin firmer and healthier-looking.

7. Protects from sun damage

It's not a substitute for sunscreen, of course, but because it's an excellent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, it helps repair cells damaged by UV rays, and acts as a second line of defense.

 

What forms does Niacinamide come in?

Niacinamide is found in many products on the market, and each form has its use:

1. Serum

• This is the most common and concentrated form. It has a light texture (watery or gel).

• Why choose it?: If you want to treat a specific problem quickly (like large pores or oil and shine) and want a high concentration of the active ingredient to penetrate deep into the skin.

2. Moisturizer

• Many moisturizing creams now include Niacinamide among their ingredients.

• Why choose it?: If your skin is dry or very sensitive and you're wary of concentrated serums. Here you get hydration with therapeutic benefits in one step.

Or if your skin is oily and you want a moisturizing cream that also helps reduce shine and balance oils.

3. Toner

• A light liquid used after cleansing to close pores.

• Why choose it?: As a preparatory step to increase absorption and something to reduce the appearance of pores, or if your routine is simple and you want something quick to give you radiance.

4. Cleanser

• Although it's found in many cleansers, its effect here is weak because it washes off quickly and doesn't stay on the skin long enough, so it's merely a辅助 factor in the routine. It's better to rely on a serum or cream to solve the problem.

Niacinamide concentrations used: Is 10% better than 5%?

A higher concentration is not always better. On the contrary, when using an ingredient like Niacinamide, it's preferable to introduce it into your routine gradually until your skin gets used to it.

2% - 5% concentration: Scientific studies have shown that Niacinamide is very effective in treating hyperpigmentation and pores at these concentrations, with the lowest chance of irritation. This is ideal for most people.

10% - 20% concentration: Many brands have released these high concentrations. They are certainly effective, but they can cause sensitivity, redness, or purging (under-the-skin breakouts) if your skin is sensitive or if you introduce it suddenly.

 

Always remember it's safer to introduce it gradually with small concentrations and then increase if a higher concentration is needed.

How to use it in your routine 

Niacinamide is a very flexible ingredient; you can use it morning and night, every day.

Correct order in routine:

1. Cleanser: Wash your face well with a cleanser suitable for your skin type.

2. Toner (optional): If you use toner, apply it and wait for it to dry a bit.

3. Niacinamide serum:

• Just 2-3 drops are enough.

• Pat it gently onto your face and neck.

4. Moisturizer: A crucial step after it, of course.

5. Sunscreen: Essential for us.

 

There are many rumors and myths about Niacinamide, so let me answer the questions that most girls ask.

Q: Can I use it with Vitamin C?

A: Research indicates that it is perfectly safe to use them together, and in fact, they complement each other (one brightens and the other is an antioxidant). However, if your skin is sensitive, it's best to separate them (one in the morning and one at night) to avoid any temporary redness.

Q: Can I use it with Retinol?

A: These two work very well together! Niacinamide strengthens the skin barrier and soothes inflammation, which greatly helps reduce the side effects of Retinol (like dryness and peeling). Use Niacinamide first, then Retinol after a while. Some brands now combine them in one product to enhance the results.

Q: Can it be used with exfoliating acids (AHA/BHA)?

A: Yes, but with caution. If you are using a strong exfoliant like fruit acids (such as glycolic or salicylic acid), it is preferable not to use a high-concentration Niacinamide serum at the same time so your face doesn't get inflamed, keeping in mind that some Niacinamide serums also contain salicylic acid to boost the results. 

It's better to use them at different times (exfoliant at night and Niacinamide in the morning, or separate them on different days).

Now for the most common question: Niacinamide caused breakouts for me... why?

A: This can happen for two reasons:

1. High concentration: Your skin couldn't tolerate 10% or 20%. You must stop immediately and use a lower concentration.

2. You didn't introduce the product gradually, and it's natural to experience purging until your skin gets used to it.

3. Sensitivity to other ingredients in the product: The serum might contain other ingredients (like zinc or preservatives) that caused sensitivity, not Niacinamide itself.

Conclusion:

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is indeed an excellent ingredient for your skin if you decide to incorporate it into your routine, whether you want to maintain your skin's radiance or combat wrinkles. It is the ideal and indispensable choice for large pores, excess oil, and evening out skin tone.

My advice to you:

• Patience: No product gives results overnight. Niacinamide needs 4 to 8 weeks to show noticeable results, especially for pores.

• Gradual introduction: Start with a low concentration (5%) and a small amount.

• Consistency: A successful routine is a consistent routine.

Now that you know the benefits of Niacinamide and how to use it, you can decide if it's a reality or a trend and if it's suitable for your routine or not.

If you need help choosing a Niacinamide product that fits your budget, skin type, and concerns... leave us a comment and we'll reply.

 

https://aperaegy.com/products/apera-niaotala-serum?variant=51700338852119