Let's Clear Things Up: Your Guide To Niacinamide & Best Products To Buy

As far as skincare is concerned, Niacinamide is a topical version of vitamin B3 (yes, the same one your doctor prescribes supplements for and is present in food like meats, legumes, nuts, and seeds). While we are no chemists, we learned that niacinamide is naturally derived from nicotinic acid found in many cereals and brewer's yeast. Once isolated, it undergoes a chemical reaction to become Niacinamide.

Niacinamide works by helping the skin build proteins and lock in moisture to prevent the damaging effects of external factors. When niacinamide is applied, it is converted into the vitamin coenzyme nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, which our cells can then utilise. This coenzyme is thought to be responsible for niacinamide's beneficial effects. Frankly, you don’t have to worry too much about remembering all this, all you need to know is that niacinamide is the skincare ingredient you need to look for in your products to change your skin's game.

It is a gentle active ingredient (specific ingredients added to skincare products to target specific concerns) that is known for its anti-inflammatory and skin-brightening properties.

Another stand out benefit of incorporating niacinamide in your routine is that since it reduces inflammation, it helps fight off acne and  is a blessing for people with oily skin as it helps regulate sebum production. Additionally, it's known for helping with anti-aging since you can expect a stronger and smoother skin surface. So basically, no matter what's your skin type, you will gain something or the other from applying it on the skin. 

And, if you feel that your skin acts all snooty and unpredictable (sensitive skin) — we'd say relax because niacinamide has a unique ability to gently support all skin types across a wide range of skin concerns.

If this much (science-backed) praise wasn't enough to convince you, then don't worry because we come bearing more information!

So what exactly are niacinamide's benefits again, you ask?

-Protects skin barrier

-Reduces hyperpigmentation

-Regulates sebum production

-Anti-ageing benefits

-Calms inflammation

-Acne reduction 

-Fades dark spots 

Pro -tip: Read about each of these benefits in detail here.

This all-rounder skincare ingredient can be found in many moisturisers, serums, toners, sunscreens, body washes, lotions  and more (hang on for our recommendations after this). 

A serum has active ingredients (like niacinamide) in the highest concentration and so is the best way to incorporate niacinamide into your skincare regime. Other skincare products like cleansers, toners, essences, moisturisers and even sunscreens contain niacinamide as an added benefit for helping your skin, however, serums do remain the most effective in our opinion.

A cleanser that deeply cleanses is the perfect first step for those with oily, acne-prone skin. Our pick for the same is Nivea's Derma Skin Clear Face Wash Gel that has niacinamide along with salicylic acid. Salicylic acid and niacinamide are the best combination for reducing excess sebum production because salicylic acid exfoliates the pores and removes gunk and dirt, while niacinamide provides anti-inflammatory action and relief to the skin's moisture-stripped barrier.

Nykaa Rating: 4.2/5

This cleanser is ideal for people with normal to dry skin who want a gentle cleanser that hydrates while cleansing. Cetaphil's creamy cleanser contains niacinamide, panthenol (another form of vitamin B), and glycerin in its formula to gently remove grime from your face without leaving you with that stretchy, dry feeling that comes with harsh face cleansers. It also helps to keep the skin's moisture barrier intact because it contains niacinamide, the star of the show.

Nykaa Rating: 4.5/5

Of course we had to list the OG! The Ordinary's Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% was the first skincare product that introduced us to the world of niacinamide. It is a lightweight water-based serum that works on repairing your skin's barrier (the outermost layer of your skin) to reveal smoother, brighter and healthier skin over time. When used regularly, it helps reduce skin inflammation and congestion.

Nykaa Rating: 4.4/5

Another of our favourite niacinamide serums that effectively controls oil, fights off pesky acne and even peskier acne marks. The Derma Co. 10% Niacinamide Face Serum is a great pick for combination to oily skin folks. It's not at all greasy or sticky and feels like applying water to your face. When applied consistently, it remarkably reduces active acne (even black heads and white heads) and gives a glow to the skin by reducing acne marks and pigmentation.

Nykaa Rating: 4.4/5

Minimalist is one of our favourite homegrown brands that always come through with their quality skincare products. Their 10% Niacinamide Face Serum With Matmarine + Zinc is a failproof purchase for you if you are tired of dealing with excess sebum, shine, enlarged pores and spots, and want to put an end to your skin's chip-chip. Pure 10% Niacinamide promotes protein synthesis to reduce melanin concentration and improving pigmentation, and also works with matmarine (a biotechnological extract derived from a marine microorganism) to help regulate oiliness.

Nykaa Rating: 4.4/5

LBB Tip: Need more niacinamide serum recommendations? Check out our list here.

If you have oily skin then chances are you aren't really fond of applying sunscreen because it makes your skin feel oilier leaving you with an icky heavy feeling weighed down feeling; but with this one, that's not going to be the case! Wishcare's Niacinamide Oil Balance Sunscreen has a milky fluid texture that feels super light on the skin and the niacinamide-infused formula helps absorb the excess oil for a smooth-looking finish. It offers SPF 50 PA++++ and keeps you protected from the sun's harmful UVA and UVB rays.

Nykaa Rating: 4.5/5

We love a good tinted sunscreen like this one for daily wear because, not only does it keep your skin protected from the sun but also gives slight coverage (like a BB cream) so you are saved from the hassle of applying another product. With the help of niacinamide, it not only gives a non-oily finish but also reduces dark spots over time with regular use. It's available in three shades to choose from and also boasts SPF 50+ PA++++ protection.

Nykaa Rating: 4.4/5

Can all skin types use niacinamide?

Yes, niacinamide is generally considered safe for all skin types, but it is important to exercise caution when using a high percentage of niacinamide, especially if it is new to your skincare routine. You can begin with a low percentage and gradually increase.

Is niacinamide safe to use with other skincare ingredients?

Niacinamide is quite versatile and complements most skincare ingredients. It can be combined with retinoids, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and AHAs/BHAs without a hitch. In fact, when combined with complementary ingredients, it can boost the overall efficacy of your skincare regimen.

How often should I use niacinamide?

You can begin by applying it every other day and gradually increase the frequency to once or twice daily, depending on your skin's tolerance. In general, it is safe for daily use.

Can I use niacinamide during the daytime?

Yes, niacinamide is non-photosensitizing, which means it does not make your skin more vulnerable to sun exposure. However, for added UV protection, always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen or simply opt for sunscreen formulated with niacinamide to get the benefit of both.