All About Niacinamide

Looking for a multitasking skincare ingredient? Look no further than niacinamide, whose many benefits have made it a favorite among dermatologists and skincare experts alike. 

Also known as vitamin B3 or nicotinamide, this essential nutrient helps build proteins in the skin, offers protection against environmental damage and boosts the effectiveness of other skincare ingredients. Niacinamide can be found in an increasing number of skincare products. Unlike other forms of vitamin B, such as nicotinic acid, niacinamide will not cause the skin to flush when applied topically. 

Read on to learn more about why you should include this ingredient in your skincare line up.

What is Niacinamide?

A synthetic, water-soluble form of vitamin B3, niacinamide is an essential nutrient that helps build keratin proteins in the skin to keep it firm. What’s more, it offers protection against environmental damage by supporting skin-barrier function. Our bodies do not naturally produce vitamin B3, so it must be consumed orally or applied topically. 

What really sets niacinamide apart as a skincare ingredient is its versatility and tolerance by all skin types. Stable and not prone to oxidation, it is compatible with a host of other actives such as retinol, peptides, hyaluronic acid, AHAs, BHAs and vitamin C, and is suitable for use by those with sensitive or rosacea-prone skin. In short, it’s a true must-have for anyone looking for a multitasker with proven scientific claims. 

How does Niacinamide benefit skin?

Studies have shown that when used topically, niacinamide has the potential to act as an antioxidant, decrease skin hyperpigmentation, decrease the appearance of pores, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, calm redness and improve skin elasticity.

Niacinamide also has anti-inflammatory properties that make it helpful in the treatment of rosacea and has been found to inhibit the production of oil, which can benefit acne-prone skin. 

Regular use of niacinamide has also been found to have a stabilizing effect on epidermal barrier function, reducing trans-epidermal water loss and boosting moisture levels in the skin.

So, if you’re wondering ‘What is niacinamide good for?’, the answer is, well, ‘Everything’ (almost). 

How can I incorporate Niacinamide into my skincare routine? 

Niacinamide can be used daily as part of your morning and evening skincare routine, after cleansing and before moisturizing. Unlike many other actives, it can also be used alone or in combination with other skincare ingredients, such as AHAs, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and retinol. When used in conjunction with these ingredients, niacinamide will also boost their effectiveness. 

Typically, niacinamide is offered in serums to be applied before your moisturizer. Niacinamide is usually well-tolerated, since most formulas use low concentrations to deliver benefits; but when concentrations are high, niacinamide side effects can include skin irritation. As always, follow up with sunscreen to avoid undoing all the hard work this hero active does.

Which Skin Laundry products are formulated with Niacinamide?

Our oil-free Hydrating Gentle Cleanser is formulated with Niacinamide, Amino Acids, Vitamin B5 and Watermelon Extract to gently wash away dirt and impurities leaving the skin clean and hydrated while balancing pH levels for a stronger skin barrier.

The Skin Laundry Hyaluronic Acid Serum also contains Niacinamide. Suitable for all skin types, this serum boosts hydration levels and collagen production reducing the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles, improves barrier function and provides antioxidant protection.