You know how your beloved dog never sets a foot wrong, lives to please and will never let you down? Well consider niacinamide the skin care equivalent. Whether you’re tackling pigmentation, acne, large pores, dryness, excess sebum or even wrinkles — niacinamide can (and will) do it all.
Although this ingredient has a difficult name to pronounce, it’s incredibly easy to tolerate and introduce into your skin care regimen. That’s likely why it’s quickly become one of the most popular skin care ingredients, even rivalling hyaluronic acid’s untarnished reputation.
Let’s get into all the wonders that niacinamide has to offer (we’re big fans), as we break down everything you need to know about niacinamide.
What is niacinamide?
Niacinamide is an active water-soluble ingredient, which is a form of vitamin B3 and a type of protein that promotes firm and healthy skin.
What are the benefits of using niacinamide?
If you haven’t already picked up on it, there are many, but niacinamide’s biggest claim to fame is that it helps to protect the skin from environmental damage caused by pollutants.
Niacinamide is also a powerhouse when it comes to managing acne as it helps to regulate oil production, increases hydration, can reduce redness and the appearance of scarring and pores.
Basically niacinamide will do everything but wash your car. Which is why you’ll be hard-pressed to find a skin care range that isn’t using this incredible ingredient.
What skin care products can you mix it with?
Niacinamide in low concentrations can be easily paired with most other active ingredients. However, any formula with a niacinamide concentration of more than five per cent can be more likely to cause sensitivities in the skin.
The Best Niacinamide Serums
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Niacinamide Serum
from $26.99 at Chemist Warehouse
This potent hydrating serum contains a blend of hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and neo-glucosamine to aid in moisture retention, unify skin tone, smooth uneven texture and plump the skin.
Want to know more? Read Neutrogena Hydro Boost Niacinamide Serum reviews here…
Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster
from $65 at Paula’s Choice
A powerful booster to any skin care routine, this serum contains a whopping 10 per cent niacinamide, as well as, humectant panthenol (vitamin B5). The pair work in unison to visibly brighten skin, minimise pore size, refine texture and tone, and minimise dryness.
Want to know more? Read Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster reviews here…
La Roche-Posay MELA B3 Niacinamide Serum
from $67.99 at Chemist Warehouse
Formulated to specifically combat hyperpigmentation, La Roche-Posay’s utilised a multi-patented Melasyl™ complex alongside niacinamide (10 per cent) to minimise the appearance of dark spots and even skin tone.
Want to know more? Read La Roche-Posay MELA B3 Niacinamide Serum reviews here…
Main image credit: @gwynethpaltrow
Do you have a favourite niacinamide serum?
I’m hearing more about Niacinamide every day so decided to try it orally. It appears to be helping my rosacea.
Need to get a sample of some 🙂
Yes a sample would be great. Where can we get one?
Might give one of these serums a shot pref when on sale
Sounds like a magic ingredient
Sounds amazing
This o ingredient helped my pigment more thsnbanything. I want to try that la rrochee serum