Ask anyone what they think is the chemical solution for pigmentation is, they’ll shout Vitamin C. Yes, they’re not wrong. Vitamin C is perhaps the hero ingredient when it comes to fading spots and scars. However, there’ another hero ingredient in the market – one that is as powerful as Vitamin C, but twice as less irritating.
I heard about this ingredient when I was binge watching James Welsh on YouTube. Amongst all the self-labelled skin care gurus out there, Welsh is the one that makes the most sense. The ingredient? Niacinamide.
WHAT IS NIACINAMIDE EXACTLY?
Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3, and it comes from foods such as meat, fish, eggs, milk and certain greens. Not only is it a fantastic inclusion in your diet, but if applied topically, Niacinamide has great effects on the skin too.
WHAT DOES IT DO?
Well, for starters, the ingredient helps lock in and retain your skin’s moisture by sealing off the barrier. As a result, your skin feels more hydrated, dewier and more youthful. (sounds fantastic, doesn’t it?)
This B3 babe also helps combat hyperpigmentation (or pigmentation in general), and brightens skin over time. (No, not whiten, brighten – as in, gives your skin the radiance it’s been missing)
Niacinamide also regulates oil, leaving your skin feeling more balanced. Furthermore, it also has anti-inflammatory properties.
WHO CAN USE THE INGREDIENT?
The fantastic thing about Vitamin B3 is that it can be used on ALL skin types, ESPECIALLY dry and sensitive skin. The chemical does not irritate your skin, and doesn’t really cause a lot of breakouts and redness.
If you’re oily, you’ll obsess over its oil reduction powers. Acne-prone humans, it will help calm those angry red blemishes. If you’re sensitive, it’ll soothe inflammation and reduce the risk of irritation. Dry skins will benefit from its help with ceramide production and if you’re dehydrated, it’ll strengthen your barrier. Additionally, it’s safe to use when pregnant and breastfeeding, too.
HOW CAN IT BE USED
The beauty of Niacinamide is that it doesn’t dissolve in oil. So if you’re a fan of featherweight textures, rejoice. The ingredient is found mostly in water-based products. Furthermore, Niacinamide is available in almost every other product – serum, toner, creams – the works.
OUR PICKS FOR THE INGREDIENT
The best way to incorporate the ingredient in your routine is by using a serum. You can use it twice daily, but don’t forget to finish off with sunscreen during the day.
- Limese Purifying Ampoule
- Limese Brightening Ampoule
- Make Up Revolution Skincare Blemish and Pore Refining Serum
- CGG Cosmetics Retinol Serum
- The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
If you feel like this babe is your thing, add it into your routine today. The ingredient takes up to 12 weeks to show results.
