July 18, 2023, 3:53 am | Read time: 4 minutes
Niacinamide is hailed as a true miracle worker in beauty circles. But what exactly is behind this vitamin, and what can it really do? STYLEBOOK consulted a dermatologist to find out.
If you rely on dietary supplements, you may have come across the term niacin. This refers to vitamin B3, which in skincare is known as niacinamide or nicotinamide–a substance currently experiencing a real hype.
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Overview
What is Niacinamide?
Niacinamide is a vitamin B3 derivative, meaning it is a form of the ingredient niacin. The water-soluble vitamin is available mixed as a serum or cream. “It is an antioxidant that protects against sun damage from UV exposure and counteracts wrinkles,” explains Dr. Isabell Sick, owner of the Munich Isarderma Center for Dermatology and Aesthetics. The anti-aging vitamin can also help reduce excess sebum. “It also has anti-inflammatory effects, refines pores, and is therefore recommended for acne-prone skin,” the expert continues.
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How is Niacinamide Used?
Niacinamide is used in both medical and cosmetic fields and has positive effects on the skin. The vitamin can also be used as a dietary supplement–in this case, it is referred to as nicotinamide, although both are the same chemical compound. When applied to the skin, niacinamide is often found in creams, serums, or face masks.
Attributed Effects of Niacinamide
Niacinamide as an Anti-Aging Agent
Niacinamide can strengthen the skin barrier by locking in moisture. This, in turn, stimulates collagen production, making fine lines and wrinkles appear less visible. The vitamin is truly an anti-aging wonder!
More Even Skin Tone
In addition to strengthening the skin barrier, the beauty vitamin has another area of application: “It also helps with pigmentation disorders,” says Dr. Isabell Sick. Background: “Niacinamide helps inhibit the production of the pigment melanin, resulting in a more even skin tone.” And niacinamide can allegedly do even more: “There are products specifically for the scalp,” says the dermatologist. “They have anti-inflammatory effects and reduce sebum production, thereby also reducing dandruff.”
Fighting Acne
Niacinamide has anti-inflammatory properties and can thus counteract redness and inflammation caused by acne. At the same time, it regulates sebum production, resulting in fewer pimples and reduced breakouts.
Possible Risks of Niacinamide
In general, niacinamide or nicotinamide is considered well-tolerated–regardless of skin type. However, people with sensitive skin and allergy sufferers should consult a dermatologist before use to rule out any side effects.
Combination Possibilities
The combination of niacinamide with other active ingredients is largely safe and is even relatively common in cosmetics. Combining it with salicylic acid, for example, can have synergistic effects. This means that the interaction of the vitamin is enhanced–its effectiveness in treating acne could be further increased.
Expert Assessment
Expert opinions also confirm that niacinamide is a true miracle worker. “Niacinamide is a true all-rounder,” confirms Dr. Isabell Sick, owner of the Munich Isarderma Center for Dermatology and Aesthetics. Whether for dry or sensitive skin–niacinamide is suitable “for a wide range of skin types, with no side effects or contraindications,” says the dermatologist in an interview with STYLEBOOK.
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What Consumer Protection Says
In general, niacinamide is considered well-tolerated both in its application in skincare and as a dietary supplement nicotinamide. However, the consumer center warns against excessive dosages, especially in supplements. Products containing a daily dose of more than 16 mg of nicotinamide should therefore have an appropriate warning. There is no officially recommended maximum limit for skin application.
Source
- With expert advice from Dr. Isabell Sick, owner of the Munich Isarderma Center for Dermatology and Aesthetics
- Niacin, Consumer Center