Niacinamide

Niacinamide

Best used:

AM Or PM

Caution: Plays well with everyoneBest for: Acne, Rosacea
Comments:

Possibly THE best

Ingredient for sensitive skin

Mode of action: 

Anti-inflammatory,

Mild pigment corrector, barrier function

Science Score:

*****

 

What is niacinamide?

Niacinamide or vitamin B3 is the go-to skin care active if you have rosacea &/or sensitive skin. This molecule can be combined with most actives. The action of this vitamin can give the following benefits to your skin. 

  1. Reduce inflammation & redness (blotchy skin)
  2. Reduce pigmentation from conditions such as melasma
  3. Establish barrier function in patients with dermatitis & eczema
  4. Offers modest immune function regulation from UV damage

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What does niacinamide do?

Niacinamide aids in skin barrier function, helping skin recover from acne, rosacea & dermatitis. It also increases its resiliency, improving skin quality by making pores look smaller. It also helps balance oil production, and—bonus! —it’s good for all skin type including sensitive skin & darker skin types.

What is the skin science behind Niacinamide?

Vitamin B3 has many actions in the skin however the anti-inflammatory effects are most useful. This compound can also aid in restoring barrier function, reduces UV immune suppression, as well as decrease sebum production. It has weak pigment reducing effects & hence is useful in conditions such as melasma (best used with other pigment correctors). 

Davin’s Skin Protip

This is the number one skin care active if you have sensitive skin conditions including rosacea, dermatitis or just ‘reactive skin.’ This compound plays well with others & can be used on a nightly basis. Much like azelaic acid, it reduces inflammation & repairs compromised skin barriers. It has very weak anti-pigment properties.  

Incorporating niacinamide into an advanced skincare routine alongside vitamin C and retinol can be beneficial for addressing multiple skin concerns, such as pigmentation, signs of aging, and skin texture. However, it’s essential to use these ingredients correctly to maximize their benefits and minimize potential irritation. Here’s a detailed guide on how to use niacinamide into your skincare routine with vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid and retinol:

  1. Start Slowly:
  • If you’re new to niacinamide, vitamin C, or retinol, introduce each ingredient into your routine gradually. This helps your skin acclimate to these active ingredients and reduces the risk of irritation.
  1. Morning Routine:
  2. Cleansing: Begin with a gentle cleanser to remove impurities.
  3. Vitamin C Serum: – Apply a vitamin C serum to clean, dry skin. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps brighten skin, fade hyperpigmentation, and protect against environmental damage. – Allow the vitamin C serum to absorb for a few minutes.
  4. Niacinamide Serum: – Apply a niacinamide serum to the skin. Niacinamide can help reduce redness, improve the skin’s barrier function, and regulate sebum production. – Allow the niacinamide serum to absorb for a few minutes.
  5. Moisturizer: Apply a hydrating and protective moisturizer.
  6. Sunscreen: Finish with a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen. Both vitamin C and retinol can make your skin more susceptible to UV damage, so sunscreen is crucial.
  7. Evening Routine:
  8. Cleansing: Use a gentle cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, and impurities.
  9. Retinol Serum or Cream: – If you are new to retinol, start with a lower concentration and use it 2-3 times a week initially. – Apply retinol to dry skin after cleansing and wait for 15-20 minutes to allow your skin to dry thoroughly. – After some time, you can increase the frequency of retinol usage if your skin tolerates it well.
  10. Niacinamide Serum: – Apply niacinamide after the retinol has absorbed (or on the nights you’re not using retinol). Niacinamide can help mitigate potential irritation caused by retinol. – Let the niacinamide serum absorb for a few minutes.
  11. Moisturizer: Apply a hydrating and nourishing moisturizer to combat any dryness or irritation from retinol.
  12. Tips:
  • Patch Testing: Before applying any new product, consider patch testing on a small area of skin to check for any adverse reactions or allergies.
  • Alternate Days: If using both retinol and niacinamide in the evening, you can alternate between them on different nights to minimize any potential conflicts.
  • Consult a Dermatologist: If you have specific skin concerns or conditions, or if you’re using prescription-strength retinoids, it’s advisable to consult a dermatologist for personalized guidance.
  • Patience: Results from skincare routines take time. Be patient and consistent, and remember that improvements may not be immediate.

It’s essential to listen to your skin and adjust your routine if you experience any irritation or sensitivity. A well-balanced skincare routine, along with appropriate products and application methods, can help you achieve your desired results while maintaining healthy, radiant skin.

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