Best niacinamide serum | What is niacinamide and how to use it
It might not be as universally adored as vitamin C or as regularly discussed as retinol, but niacinamide is quietly making its way into the skincare routines of the most in-the-know. In fact, there’s likely a niacinamide serum in your stash, whether you know it or not. Why? Its appeal is multifaceted: this smart molecule offers several different benefits to stressed-out skin, from brightening pigmentation to controlling sebum production. It’s this versatility that has made niacinamide the go-to ingredient for all manner of skincare products.
Here, we reveal everything you need to know about niacinamide, from the things it can do in skincare (and the things it can’t) to the best ways to work it into a beneficial routine.
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What is niacinamide?
Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that can be taken as a dietary supplement or applied topically to the skin. An effective anti-inflammatory, it’s generally known for its soothing and calming properties – but when formulated well, its benefits can be much more impressive than that.
How does it work on skin?
According to consultant dermatologist at Skin55 and author of the The Skincare Bible, Dr. Anjali Mahto, niacinamide is used in skincare for many reasons. Firstly, it can play a pivotal role in strengthening the skin barrier as it “reduces water loss from the epidermis and increases lipids (also known as ceramides) and proteins found in the skin barrier layer”. So, using a niacinamide serum or cream could increase your skin’s ability to defend itself from pollution particles and irritants.
But perhaps more interesting is the way that regular use of niacinamide skincare can lead to balanced sebum production, and therefore fewer breakouts. “Niacinamide reduces sebum or oil production in the skin, which may indirectly help with the appearance of overly enlarged pores. It can also be helpful in mild acne,” says Dr. Mahto.
Finally, niacinamide may be helpful in brightening acne scars in certain skin types, as “studies show it reduces the appearance of hyperpigmented spots by acting on the steps leading to melanin or pigment production,” adds Dr. Mahto.
How to use niacinamide skincare
Niacinamide is generally well-tolerated by all skin types, causing minimal irritation. It can, of course, be found in varying degrees of concentration in the wealth of products available today. “Ideally, look for products that contain at least 5 per cent niacinamide for best results and ensure that it features highly (in the top five) on the ingredients list of a product,” says Dr. Mahto.
Below, see the Bazaar verdict on the best niacinamide serums, creams and masks for fading pigmentation, protecting from pollution, and balancing congested skin.
