It is time to make peace with your skin: What are the benefits of niacinamide? What are its side effects?
Recently, the ingredient niacinamide has frequently been appearing in skincare products. So, what is niacinamide, which has made a rapid entry into our lives? Does niacinamide, which has many benefits ranging from repairing the skin barrier to protecting the skin from the sun, have any side effects?
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Niacinamide, a product that has recently become popular in skincare products, has countless effects.
So, is niacinamide as miraculous a substance as they say? Here are the effects of niacinamide on the skin...
WHAT IS NIACINAMIDE?
Niacinamide, also called nicotinamide, is actually a type of vitamin B3, which is an essential nutrient. A B3 deficiency can lead to various problems in skin, kidney, and brain cells.
Although more research is needed, topical niacinamide may help in the treatment of some skin problems, including acne and eczema.
DO NOT CONFUSE IT WITH NIACIN!
Despite the similarities in their names, niacinamide is not the same thing as niacin. These are two different types of vitamin B3.
However, your body can produce niacinamide from the niacin supplements you take. This only happens when there is an excessive amount of niacin in the body.
For this reason, you should always consult an expert before taking vitamin B3 or other supplements.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF NIACINAMIDE?
In general, niacinamide helps build protein in the skin and keeps the skin vibrant and hydrated by locking in moisture to prevent environmental damage. Apart from this, it has many other effects.
PROTECTS SKIN IMMUNITY
Niacinamide helps build keratin, a type of protein that keeps your skin firm and healthy. Keratin nourishes the skin and contributes to strengthening its immunity.
CONTRIBUTES TO THE FORMATION OF THE LIPID BARRIER
Niacinamide can help your skin grow a ceramide (lipid) barrier, which helps retain moisture.
This is especially helpful if you have eczema or damaged skin.
PREVENTS DISCOLORATION
It minimizes redness and discoloration.
Niacinamide reduces inflammation, which can help ease redness caused by eczema, acne, and other inflammatory skin conditions.
REDUCES THE APPEARANCE OF PORES
It minimizes the appearance of pores.
In addition to the secondary benefit of keeping the skin smooth and hydrated, your pores also appear smaller.
REGULATES OIL BALANCE
It regulates oil levels. The benefits of moisture retention are not just for those with dry skin types.
Niacinamide also helps regulate the amount of oil produced by the sebaceous glands and can prevent your glands from going into overdrive.
PROVIDES SUN PROTECTION
It protects against sun damage.
Niacinamide rebuilds healthy skin cells while simultaneously protecting them from damage caused by ultraviolet rays.
SAY GOODBYE TO DARK SPOTS ON THE SKIN
It treats hyperpigmentation. Some research has discovered that products with a 5 percent niacinamide concentration can help lighten dark spots.
Of course, this benefit may also be linked to increased collagen production.
FIGHTS WRINKLES
It minimizes fine lines and wrinkles.
Research has also discovered that the same concentration helps reduce some signs of sun damage that come with aging.
PROTECTS THE SKIN BARRIER
It protects against oxidative stress.
While niacinamide helps build cells in the skin, it also protects them from environmental factors such as sunlight, pollution, and toxins.
DRIES OUT ACNE
It treats pimples. Niacinamide can be useful for severe acne, especially inflammatory types such as papules and pustules.
Over time, you may have fewer lesions and improved skin texture.
CAN IT BE USED IN COMBINATION WITH OTHER PRODUCTS?
Niacinamide can be used with other active ingredients for the best results.
For example, some research shows that it can work well with folic acid and zinc for acne treatment.
You can also get more out of your niacinamide serum by using it with hyaluronic acid, as it is said that hyaluronic acid increases product absorption.
WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS?
The use of topical niacinamide is generally considered safe. People with prior allergies may be more likely to experience an allergic reaction.
This is because niacinamide can cause your body to release histamine.
You can prevent common allergic reactions and product sensitivities by performing a small patch test on your skin before using a niacinamide product:
-Apply a finger-sized amount of product to your forearm.
-Wait 24 hours and observe the area.
-If you start to feel redness, itching, or swelling, wash the area and stop using it.
-If you do not experience any side effects, you can still consult your doctor before using a niacinamide product.