“Make sure it has niacinamide!” That was the response I got from a dermatologist friend to whom I had asked what the key active ingredients would be for the ideal skincare facial cream.
“There are other important vitamins, of course, such as Vitamin C and Vitamin E (tocopherols) but Vitamin B3 (niacinamide) is king. It’s a superstar and no good quality skincare product should be without it.”
Why?
Scientific research continues to point to the benefits of one of the most exciting skincare ingredients available today. It turns out that B3 is more than a one trick pony when it comes to how it helps skin, both protectively and preventatively.
1. Softens: Fine lines and wrinkles are targets of niacinamide, which acts to add suppleness. This even applies to crow’s feet around the eyes.
2. Tones and Tightens: One way that niacinamide provides a smoother, softer feel of the skin is by tightening pores and strengthening the underlying tone of the face. Lax pores (so-called “orange peel skin”) can be restored to a more youthful, smoother skin.
3. Shines: Niacinamide helps convert a dull lifeless appearance into a brighter, fresher, more radiant look and feel.
4. Protects: By strengthening the skin barrier, hence reducing the damage caused by free radicals, the sun, chemical irritants, etc. In addition, it protects against moisture loss and potentiates the beneficial effects of other moisturizers.
5. Lightens: Not only does B3 prevent nasty brown spots from occurring, but can also help break up current discolourations of the face, making the face appear lighter and tighter.
6. Repairs: B3 not only prevents and protects damage but also can revert the skin damage caused by the environment and age.
7. Unlike Vitamin A, niacinamide is non-irritating and can be used successfully on any type of skin; damaged, sensitive, diseased, aged, dry or oily.