You may already be using other antioxidants on your skin such as Vitamin C and Vitamin A, but the less known Vitamin B3, also known as “Nia-ci-na-mide”, is a powerhouse ingredient that should be part of your skincare regime! Suitable for all skin types, including acne prone and sensitive skin, Niacinamide has numerous benefits and does not sensitise the skin, unlike some of the other antioxidants.
What is Niacinamide?
Vitamin B3 has long been known as a skincare formulation ingredient that has been used to treat acne, irritation, rosacea, and as an anti-ageing ingredient. It has been recognised to have a number of benefits for the skin, particularly for those with sensitive skin types and oily skin types.
Niacinamide improves the natural skin barrier and works in sync with the skin’s natural functions to improve the skin’s overall appearance and texture. As an antioxidant, Niacinamide also protects the skin against environmental aggressors (like vitamin C), and prevents accelerated ageing.
Known benefits of Niacinamide
- Regulates Sebum Production
Niacinamide has been proven to help regulate sebum production and reducing the over production of oil. This greatly benefits people who are prone to acne and blemishes. As an antioxidant, niacinamide has the additional benefit of reducing inflammation and may further benefit those with acne.
- Strengthens skin natural barrier
Many may not realise that having a strong skin barrier is fundamental to healthy skin. An invisible layer that effectively shields your skin against environmental aggressors, this very same skin barrier prevents trans epidermal water loss and hence, keeps your skin moistruised and balanced. Niacinamide has been shown to increase the skin’s synthesis of ceramide – an essential building block for the maintenance of a healthy skin barrier.
- Boosts hydration and soothes sensitivity
With a strengthened skin barrier, niacinamide works with other hydrating and water loving ingredients such as hyaluronic acid to maintain a water-oil balance within the skin. This leads to an improved appearance of the skin and a healthier looking complexion. For those with sensitive skin, maintaining this equilibrium becomes of even greater importance and helps to elevate symptoms of sensitivity and calms the skin overtime.
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Our team’s selection
Venn Vitamin B Activated All-In-One Concentrate: Puretincture’s absolute Vitamin B favourite – an all in one product that simplifies your skincare routine and contains a high concentration of cosmeceutical grade Vitamin B. Scientifically formulated with Venn’s proprietary concentric technology, with various Vitamin Bs and amino acids, this serum deeply hydrates and soothes in a single step.
This serum is also clinically tested to hydrate the skin for up to 24 hours, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and improve the skin’s elasticity and firmness. The skin instantly appears brighter, plumped and glows.
The Organic Pharmacy Rose Plus Brightening Complex: Another of our team’s favourite is The Organic Pharmacy’s Rose Plus Brightening Complex. Featuring stabilized enzymes that gently and effectively renew the skin by encouraging cell turnover, this oil packed serum combats the signs of ageing and protects the skin with star ingredients such as Niacinamide.