Serums have a lightweight formulation which sinks deep into the layers of the skin, making the skin nourished from within with high potency. The skincare industry is currently flooded with serums containing "active ingredients" like Ascorbic acid, Ferulic acid, Niacinamide, Hylauronic acid, etc.
This trending hype has influenced the skincare game of most populations to shift to actives tremendously. Earlier, these were only prescribed by doctors. But now the trend has made actives accessible to each person over the counter.
Niacinamide is one such serum which is highly loved and universal in nature due to several diverse effects on each skin type, including sensitive skin.
How does Niacinamide work?
Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B3 that acts as a multitasker for all types of skin. It delivers several positive effects, as follows:
Clarify the pores: For oily or acne-prone skin, it helps to balance the sebum production and clarifies the pores, preventing the formation of acne.
Reduction in pore size: Excess oil production makes the skin pores appear larger in size. This results in improved uneven skin texture. Along with regulating oil production and keeping the skin smooth, niacinamide reduces the appearance of pores.
It has anti-inflammatory properties that help to effectively calm the redness caused by pimples.It is also used for skin conditions like eczema and acne.
Even skin-tone: Niacinamide serums also work to fade away dark spots, pigmentation, and sun spots. With consistent and right concentration usage, it helps in achieving an even skin tone.
Skin moisturisation: Niacinamide aids in the retention of moisture in the skin. it plays a major role in strengthening the skin barrier. This serum is safe to use for the recovery of the compromised skin barrier due to over-chemical exfoliation.
Hydration of the skin: When a niacinamide serum is paired with a hyaluronic acid serum or a moisturiser, it instantly uplifts the hydration level of the skin. It seals in the moisture and leaves the skin soft, nourished and plump. Long-term usage reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and makes skin brighter.
Protection from free radical damage: Regular usage of the niacinamide serum helps to fight against any free radicals that can be produced due to UV rays and oxidative stress. It promotes the health of the skin cells.
Maintain skin health and its elasticity: Niacinamide works at a deeper level of the skin to boost the building of the protein called keratin, which is important for maintaining the skin firm, plump, and healthy.
How much concentration is better?
Before using any active serum, one should always consult a doctor. However, a dose of 10% niacinamide is considered to deliver the best results for oily skin people, mainly focusing on clarifying the skin pores.
A 5% niacinamide serum is recommended for normal to dry skin types that have no acne issues. A dose above 10% should strictly be used only under prescription by a doctor.
To avoid any side effects, a patch test should always be done. Also, skin allergies should be reconsidered before using the serum.
How To Use Niacinamide Serum?
It is always recommended to start with cleaning the skin. So, cleanse the skin with a regular mild cleanser or face wash. Then apply 2-3 drops of niacinamide serum to cover the face and neck.
Seal it off with a moisturizer. Top it off with sunscreen in the daytime. This regime should be followed twice a day consistently for best results.
Can niacinamide be used with other active ingredients?
Yes, niacinamide can be mixed easily with several active ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, zinc, peptides, ceramides, retinol, and alpha-arbutin.
When used along with such components, it has been proven to give optimal results. When niacinamide is paired with hyaluronic acid, which is known for locking in moisture and improving skin texture, niacinamide can have a better effect on the skin.
When mixed with vitamin C, it enhances oil control and skin brightening effects. Similarly, combining it with retinol helps in reducing the signs of ageing. Niacinamide also helps soothe irritation, redness, and dryness caused by retinol.
