Niacinamide is one of the most trending skincare ingredients and its popping up as a hero in a lot of new products. If it seems like it’s come of out nowhere, it kind of has in a marketing sense. But this all-rounder ingredient has actually been helping your skin long before it was splashed all over Instagram.

There are plenty of benefits to using niacinamide and as you read through our round-up, you’ll quickly see why your skincare routine shouldn’t be without it.

Firstly, what is niacinamide?

Niacinamide, also known as nicotinamide, is a form of vitamin B3. It’s an essential nutrient, particularly when it comes to skin health, and can be used topically or ingested.

The Skincare Benefits of Niacinamide

Improves your lipid barrier – niacinamide helps to grow and strengthen your ceramide (lipid) barrier that essentially forms a seal over your skin to retain moisture.

Regulates oil – Niacinamide can also help regulate the amount of oil the sebaceous glands produce and prevent your glands from going into overdrive.

Minimises the appearance of pores – in keeping your skin hydrated and oil production regulated, niacinamide can help to reduce the appearance of pores and keep blockages at bay.

Minimises redness – Niacinamide reduces inflammation which may help ease redness from eczema, acne, and other inflammatory skin conditions.

Protects against oxidative stress – niacinamide helps build healthy skin cells while also protecting them from environmental stresses, such as sunlight, pollution, and toxins.

Treats acne – niacinamide may be helpful for severe acne, especially inflammatory forms like papules and pustules. Over time, you may see fewer lesions and improved skin texture.

Reduces hyperpigmentation – thanks to its ability to stimulate healthy cell growth and reduce inflammation, niacinamide has been seen to reduce the appearance of and prevent hyperpigmentation.

Minimises fine lines – niacinamide can help to protect your collagen stores and due to its ability to repair your lipid barrier can prevent and minimise the appearance of fine lines caused by dehydration and skin laxity.