Every season, there is always a new ingredient on our radar. From Glycolic Acid, to Hyaluronic to Bakuchiol. This time, it’s the lesser known NIACINAMIDE. When it comes to skincare ingredients, most people think of AHAs, BHAs and retinol first and do not even consider Niacinamide. This forgotten powerhouse is a multitasker extraordinaire and should be in everyone’s stash. To find out why, keep reading….
What is Niacinamide?
Since this is not a chemistry lesson, I will keep it simple……It is a form of vitamin B3. Vitamin B3 is essential for the functioning of the heart, brain and skin.
What does it do for you?
I call it a multi-tasker for good reason. It helps to control oil, shrink appearance of pores, fade pigmentation, hydrate the skin, protect from environmental damage (I bet you did not know it is an antioxidant), minimize fine lines and wrinkles, barrier repair and reduce inflammation in moderate acne…Best part, it is suitable for all skintypes! It doesn’t get better than that
Who needs Niacinamide?
Everyone! Oily, acneic, combination, dry. It is also safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. If you breakout often, consider adding a Niacinamide serum to your routine.
Pairs well with?
Again…everything…AHAs, BHAs, retinol (my favourite combo) even hyaluronic acid. It used to be said that Niacinamide should not be used with vitamin c but this myth has long been busted and both are fine in the same routine. As with any other ingredient, do a patch test to be sure as there are people who are sensitive to niacinamide.
What products contain Niacinamide?
Literally any category of product can contain niacinamide from cleanser to toner to serums and moisturiser. Some sunscreen products also contain niacinamide. Don’t be tempted to go for the highest concentration as concentrations of 5% is said to be enough to tackle pigmentation and if formulated with zinc, can be even better for acne as zinc has skin healing properties. Start low and do a patch test as you would for any product.
Some products containing Niacinamide you can fit in your routine
- The Ordinary 10% Niacinamide and Zinc 1%
- Garden of Wisdom Niacinamide Serum (contains 5%)
- Cerave PM Lotion
- Naturium Skin Niacinamide 12% Plus 2% Zinc
- Good Molecules Niacinamide Brightening Toner
- Naturium Skin Niacinamide Gel 5%
- Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster (also comes in 20% strength)
- Elta MD UV SPF 46
- Skinceuticals Metacell Skin Renewal B3
- The Inkey List Niacinamide
Have you tried niacinamide in your routine? What was your experience? What are your favourite niacinamide products?
Olabisi is a medical doctor and skincare blogger based in Lagos. When she is not busy working with vulnerable women and children, she is writing blog posts on www.thatgeminigirl.com. You can find her on instagram @that.geminigirl, Twitter @geminigirl03 and via email geminigirlblogger@gmail.com
Ps: If you are wondering where you can get Skincare Products in Nigeria, checkout out our beauty directory where we have 20+ different Nigerian skincare retailers listed: BEAUTYDIRECTORYNG
