March 29, 2023

Ingredient Spotlight | Vitamin B (Niacinamide)

Next to Vitamin A (retinol) and Vitamin C, niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is the unsung hero. Niacinamide in skincare products has been proven to reduce environmental damage, deal with hyperpigmentation and produce ceramides to boost the skin's protective barrier.

Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B (Vitamin B3, to be exact) and is produced naturally in the body. We need niacinamide to maintain healthy cells, clean the liver, and convert food into energy. Niacinamide is found in everyday foods, particularly proteins like meat, eggs, beans, mushrooms and nuts. Niacinamide is also in green veggies and cereal grains.

Niacinamide in skincare: the benefits

Since 2005, scientific studies have supported the benefits of niacinamide in skincare formulations. Niacinamide has been shown to:

boost skin elasticity
treat acne and inflammation
improve the appearance of enlarged pores
treat uneven skin tone, fine lines and wrinkles
soothe redness and irritation
fade hyperpigmentation

Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, niacinamide is especially good for people with acne-prone, sensitive or dry skin.

Incorporating niacinamide into a skincare routine

Niacinamide works best at 1-5% concentration. Many brands don't reveal the exact percentage, so check the ingredients listing to see where niacinamide is. Niacinamide should be in the top 4-5 ingredients, and the higher up in the list, the better. Look for niacinamide in serums and in creams so it has time to sit and work on your skin. Dedicated niacinamide serums like Think B make it easy to incorporate niacinamide. Serums are ideal ways to include niacinamide skincare products in your routine, because they have potent concentrations formulated to penetrate deeply into your skin. Use your niacinamide serum early in your routine so the ingredients aren't diluted by your other products. Niacinamide lotions and creams are perfect for helping your skin retain hydration and moisture. Look for creams that contain nourishing, plant based oils and butters to support niacinamide's good work. Our last tip: follow your chosen niacinamide product with sunscreen to protect and support its ability to fade hyperpigmentation and treat wrinkles.