Niacinamide - vitamin B3

Niacinamide (Nicotinamide, Vitamin B3)

Type of ingredient	Brightener
Available forms	Creams, cleansers, serums, toning lotions
Origin	Nicotinamide is a specific form of essential water-soluble vitamin B3, which is not synthesised in the body. Therefore, if we want to enjoy the skin-lightening benefits of nicotinamide, it must be ingested via a supplement or applied topically to the skin.
Main benefits	Lightening, prevents the signs of ageing, reduces acne.
Characteristics	Nicotinamide helps restore cellular energy, repair damaged DNA and reduce the immunosuppressive effects of sun-induced UV rays, combating internal and external stressors that can ultimately lead to the deterioration or breakdown of our skin and premature signs of ageing such as discolouration and wrinkles. Nicotinamide has been shown to prevent the transfer of pigment into the skin, which can help reduce dark spots. It has anti-inflammatory properties, preserves moisture, strengthens the skin barrier and improves the synthesis of healthy fats (key to radiant skin). For pigmentation in particular, nicotinamide is best combined with other ingredients such as tranexamic acid, arbutin and soy, which can work synergistically on the “pigment pathway” to best help eliminate brown spots and discolouration.
Target group	In general, anyone who wants their skin to glow or prevent aging.
Frequency	You can use it in the morning and evening
Association	When using vitamin B3, it is good to combine it with other stable and potent antioxidants, such as the catechins from Camellia Sinensis (green tea), quercetin and tocopherol. It can also relieve skin redness in general and retinol-related irritation by sandwiching it on.
Dissociation/ Contraindication	It works well with everything.
Side effects	Niacinamide is a powerful ingredient for both moisturising and brightening the skin. But when used at high concentrations in a skin care formulation, it can cause skin irritation.
Use	It can be used twice a day and with other potentially irritating serums such as retinol, which will help reduce irritation. Then follow with a moisturiser and sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 in the morning.