Whether you’re shopping for a hydrating anti-aging serum or a multi-tasking toner for acne-prone skin, there’s a strong chance niacinamide will be a star ingredient. This water-soluble ingredient is a key player in a wide range of skincare products and for good reason: it basically does it all, minus the harsh, irritating side effects.
Keep reading to learn why this do-it-all active deserves a special place in every skincare routine, what the ideal percentage is for your skin, and its ingredient BFFs to incorporate for best results.
What is niacinamide?
Niacinamide may be a mouthful, but this water-soluble vitamin offers an even larger list of benefits for all skin types. The popular antioxidant is one of the three forms of vitamin B3: niacinamide (nicotinamide), niacin (nicotinic acid), and nicotinamide riboside. Of these three, niacinamide is the derivative known for supercharging skincare products with hydrating, brightening, and soothing powers.
What are the benefits of niacinamide?
Think of niacinamide as a hydrating hero—it helps repair the skin’s protective barrier to retain moisture and prevent dryness and irritation, making it an instant staple ingredient for all skin types. But it doesn’t stop there. It’s also a go-to ingredient for helping regulate oil production, easing surface redness, and refining skin texture. So whether you’re searching for a multi-tasking product for soothing stressed-out skin, smoothing the look of fine lines, or simply maintaining a healthy glow, niacinamide checks all the boxes.
What percentage of niacinamide is best?
Like retinol and other powerhouse actives, your magic concentration number depends on your skin type and concerns. As you’re skimming the ingredient list, keep these percentage ranges in mind:
- 2-5%: A good starting point for sensitive skin and/or new niacinamide users
- 5-10%: Effective for targeting uneven skin tone, enlarged pores, and acne symptoms
Not sure of the percentage in a product? No worries. Clinical testing has shown that niacinamide isn’t a significant skin irritant, so you should be fine with using different concentrations.
How can niacinamide be incorporated into a skincare routine?
Good news: if you aim to feature niacinamide into your skincare routine, no major overhaul is involved. This multi-tasking ingredient is also amazingly versatile. As always, your product order will depend on the specific product and application instructions, but here are some quick tips to keep in mind as you’re adding niacinamide into your existing AM and PM routines:
- Many niacinamide serums are water-based, so applying them after cleansing and toners ensures the highest absorption.
- Unless otherwise indicated, many niacinamide-powered moisturizers can be applied after serums, but they should be applied before sunscreen and makeup.
- Unlike active ingredients like retinol and glycolic acid, niacinamide isn’t affected by sunscreen or UV rays, so it’s equally effective day and night.
Can niacinamide be combined with other ingredients?
Niacinamide not only offers a laundry list of benefits, but it also plays well with other active ingredients. As you’re shopping for niacinamide products to incorporate into your routine, you may spot niacinamide paired with other ingredients, including:
- Ceramides: To hydrate, soothe signs of irritation, and show the skin’s moisture barrier some extra TLC
- Hyaluronic acid: For a double dose of anti-aging benefits, like smoothing the look of fine lines and wrinkles
- Salicylic acid: To supercharge a clarifying routine for acne-prone skin and soothe surface redness
- Retinol: Can be layered to help lessen the signs of irritation and dryness caused by this anti-aging active
- Vitamin C: Offers a brightening and anti-aging boost with fewer dark spots, discolorations, and fine lines
Are there any risks with using niacinamide?
Niacinamide is generally safe for all skin types, but some may experience minor side effects like itching or dryness. As always, conduct a small spot test before incorporating a new product into your routine, and if you experience any side effects, discontinue use and check in with your dermatologist.
