What is niacinamide and what does it do for your skin?

Searching for a powerful all-in-one ingredient to elevate your skincare routine? With both anti-ageing and skin-balancing properties, niacinamide ticks all the boxes. You’ll see it in everything from night creams to serums, but what is niacinamide exactly, and what is it used for? Read on to find out.

What is niacinamide?

Also known as nicotinamide, niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B3, a powerful antioxidant. It works inside the body to help with digestion, circulation, and brain function. Topical niacinamide also comes in handy, helping to restore the skin barrier thanks to protective properties.

What are the benefits of niacinamide in skincare?

The benefits of niacinamide are highly specific, rich and diverse:

1)     Boosts hydration

2)     Helps reduce the appearance of pores

3)     Targets dark spots including post-acne marks

4)     Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

Boosts hydration

Aside from its anti-inflammatory properties, niacinamide also works hard to strengthen the skin barrier. A stronger, healthier barrier protects your complexion from outside irritants while minimising water loss for a softer, more hydrated texture.

May reduce the appearance of pores

Niacinamide indirectly reduces the appearance of large, visible pores to keep your skin looking plump, smooth, and fresh.

Treats dark spots (including post-acne marks)

This active ingredient can brighten skin too, reducing melanin production to reduce the appearance of dark spots. L’Oréal Paris Bright Reveal Dark Spot Serum includes a potent 10% niacinamide and amino-sulfonic acid blend to fade dark spots caused by ageing, sun damage, and acne.

Reduces wrinkles and fine lines

Niacinamide helps aid in skin cell renewal by increasing production of enzymes that help repair and renew your complexion. The result? A fresher, more youthful appearance.

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How to use niacinamide in your skincare routine

It’s clear from all the benefits above that niacinamide is useful for most skin types. The trick is finding a formulation that’s best for you! To really reap the benefits, you’ll want to use products containing at least 5% niacinamide. Here’s a sample skincare routine to try:

Step 1: Cleanse skin

The first step to a clear and supple complexion is cleansing. Try Bright Reveal Spot Fading Serum-in-Cleanser, blending the brightening effect of niacinamide with the exfoliating power of salicylic acid. It removes every trace of dirt, oil and makeup, giving you a smooth base to work with.

Step 2: Apply a niacinamide serum

Next, apply your facial serums, starting with the thinnest consistency and working up to thickest. For a targeted dose of 10% niacinamide, try the Bright Reveal Niacinamide Dark Spot Serum.

Step 3: Massage in a niacinamide moisturiser

Now, lock in all that hydration with a layer of moisturising niacinamide-infused cream. The L’Oréal Paris Bright Reveal Hydrating Cream includes broad UV protection with an SPF50 to protect skin all day long. For extra SPF50+ sun protection, follow with Bright Reveal Dark Spot UV SPF+ with Niacinamide. Gently massage into your face and neck for skin-soothing absorption.

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How To Use Niacinamide Essence Article

How long does it take to see results?

As part of a regular routine, you’ll see Niacinamide improving your skin more and more over time. It takes a few weeks to see the effects of niacinamide: a smoother more refined texture.

This naturally derived ingredient leaves skin feeling hydrated, balanced, and bright, revealing a radiant and glow-y complexion over time.

See for yourself with products from the L’Oréal Paris Bright Reveal collection, all based on the latest skincare science.

FAQs

Is niacinamide suitable for all skin types?

Yes, this ingredient is gentle enough for every type, including dry, sensitive and acne prone skin.

Can niacinamide be used with other skincare ingredients?

This hero ingredient plays well with others, teaming with hyaluronic acid for maximum hydration and ceramides to soothe redness. A common combo you’ll see is niacinamide and retinol, which is recommended to reduce fine lines.

How often should I use niacinamide in my skincare routine?

Niacinamide is best used twice a day as part of your morning and evening routine.

Are there any side effects of using niacinamide?

Although it’s gentle enough for sensitive skin, as with any new skincare product it’s best to try out a small amount first in case of irritation. 

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