Niacinamide is also known as vitamin B3 or nicotinamide and is a stable, low molecular weight, water and alcohol soluble vitamin that penetrates the stratum corneum, the most superficial of our skin. Niacinamide is a precursor to several cofactors that participate in many enzymatic reactions in the skin, thus positively influencing numerous skin processes.
What are the benefits of niacinamide?
· It is effective for oil control and to increase ceramide levels.
· Helps to hydrate the skin preventing it from drying out or flaking.
· Has anti-aging effects to reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
· Improves the elasticity of the skin.
· It is an antioxidant that helps reverse the signs of photoaging.
· It is an effective agent to lighten, unify the tone and give luminosity to skin suffering from hyperpigmentation.
· It is an effective treatment for acne, dermatitis, and rosacea. It inhibits inflammation, thereby reducing post acne erythema and, due to its anti-pigmentation effects, reduces the severity of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation after acne. In addition, it also reduces scars, helps keep skin pores open, and reduces sebum production.
· It has a photoprotective effect since it reduces the damage generated by exposure to blue light and UV rays: it optimizes the DNA repair process and reduces the suppression of immunity induced by UV radiation.
· Acts as a vasodilator, improves blood circulation to the scalp and stimulates the metabolism of hair follicles.
· Improves the texture of the skin and the structure of the epidermal surface while accelerating the differentiation of keratinocytes.
· It has a global protective effect against atmospheric pollution and PM (particulate matter): it suppresses the generation of free radicals and reduces oxidative stress in keratinocytes.
An all-rounder ingredient
In addition to all its qualities, niacinamide has another great advantage: it is very well tolerated. And this means that it can be used by all skins. It is especially recommended for sensitive skin with redness and / or prone to rosacea, pigmentation alteration, acne tendency or those that show signs of aging. Due to its high versatility and compatibility with other cosmetic active ingredients, niacinamide is present in many cosmetics (cleansers, serums, creams, masks …). This makes it easier for us to find an appropriate product for each type of skin and that is adapted to each specific problem.
As we said, niacinamide is highly compatible with any of the active principles commonly used for skin care, including retinol, peptides, hyaluronic acid, alpha hydroxy acids, vitamin C and all kinds of antioxidants.