What is niacinamide?

You may be familiar with niacinamide, also known as Vitamin B3, as an essential nutrient which can be taken in oral supplement form. Niacinamide is a stable vitamin which means it retains its potency when included as an ingredient in cosmeceutical skin care products.

When applied topically to the skin it hydrates, repairs skin barrier function, regulates oil production, increases skin immunity, prevents pigmentation and is anti-inflammatory. 

This exceptional multi tasking ingredient is so super versatile, it has the ability to calm, soothe and nurture the skin as well as providing antioxidant benefit therefore it is suitable for all skin types!

Why should you be using niacinamide?

• Helps naturally restore the skin's elasticity and repair cells
• Assists in fading hyper-pigmentation and discolouration on the skin
• Hydrates and boosts moisture levels whilst balancing oil flow
• Improves skin texture
• Anti-bacterial and helps improves skin's immunity
• Strengthens and helps to rebuild an impaired barrier function

It has been found that applying medical grade niacinamide to the skin results in the reduction of hyper-pigmentation, redness and irritation, skin sallowness (yellowing of skin) and an improvement in elasticity.

Products containing niacinamide can be used AM or PM. If you are using a Vitamin A product in the evening it is recommended you use it together with a product containing niacinamide. When used together these two vitamins enhance each others properties. When using a Vitamin A product it is essential to apply sunscreen in the morning.

Which is the best niacinamide product for me?

Most products containing niacinamide can be incorporated into most skin care routines. There are many options when it comes to picking the right niacinamide product and it can be a confusing minefield of serums and creams. My favourite go-to niacinamide containing skin care products are:

Synergie Vitamin B serum

Suitable for all skin types - acne, rosacea, oily, dry, combination, sensitive  

Synergie Vitamin B serum is a silky soft lightweight serum which is highly effective in hydrating the skin so is especially popular during the winter months.

Its combination of (Niacinamide Vitamin B3) and Panthenol (Vitamin B5) make it a great choice for those wishing to increase moisture levels to give the skin back its dewy glow!

Cosmedix Clarity serum

Suitable for acne, congested and oily skin types

Cosmedix Clarity is a fresh lightweight serum is a combination product designed to combat oily, acne prone skins. Niacinamides role in this serum it to calm and soothe inflammation and helps to prevent hyper-pigmentation caused by acne.

Aspect Dr Multi B Plus serum

Suitable for all skin types

The combination in Aspect Dr Multi B Plus serum is rich in Niacinamide as well as lactic acid to help stimulate and hydrate and smooth the skin.

For oily skin refer to our best serums for oily skin guide.

Written by Alexandra Young, Skin Therapist

Alexandra Young is a Skin Therapist with over 16 years of experience. Alexandra’s dedication and passion is evident as she strives to build a strong rapport with her patients offering ongoing support and a tailor made treatment plan to help them achieve the best possible result for their skin.