VITAMIN B5 IN SKINCARE

Overarchingly, niacinamide is a gentle ingredient. It is brightening, clearing and moisturising, and can be used alongside a range of other potent substances such as retinol or benzoyl peroxide. Niacinamide features across La Roche-Posay products (including in the Lipikar range) and can be found in products like cleansers, serums, and moisturisers.

Niacinamide and niacin are both forms of vitamin B3 – however, niacin is taken in via foods and diet while niacinamide is used in skin care. Topical forms of vitamin B3 for skin include direct benefits like reduced oil-flow and brightening.

Not only can niacinamide in skincare be used alongside vitamin C – the potent benefits of each nutrient enhance one another. Many products combine the two ingredients – but separate products can also be paired to create a nutrient-rich skincare routine. Outcomes include an evened skin texture and clarified complexion.

The efficacy behind niacinamide skincare lies in its ability to protect against skin degradation. It does this by reducing the impact of stressors such as pollution, UV radiation, bacteria and dirt, which unchecked can lead to hyperpigmentation and dry skin. By implementing B3 niacinamide into your skincare routine, you can increase moisture and help stimulate the synthesis of collagen and ceramides – which helps to attain brightened, firmer and hydrated skin texture and appearance.

Through consistent use of vitamin B3 for skin, visible results can be accessed at around 8-12 weeks. Include B3 niacinamide in your morning and evening regime to improve the look and feel of skin, including brightening skin tone, reducing hyperpigmentation (visible dark marks and spots) and increasing skin hydration. You can achieve this by implementing it in one or more of your skincare steps. As the ingredient is gentle, it can be used across virtually every skincare step. We recommend avoiding the use of niacinamide in conjunction with AHAs like glycolic acid, as the differing pH levels may reduce the potency.

As an essential nutrient, niacinamide for face uses are wide-ranging. Its basis in skin strengthening means that it can be implemented in the routines of virtually every skin type, to improve upon both the look and feel of skin. A brightening, moisturising and clearing agent, you can use niacinamide for skin goals like anti-ageing, evening skin tones, reducing dullness in skin, and addressing acne-prone concerns like oiliness and blemishes.  

Because of its gentle structure, niacinamide skincare can be used twice daily – in both morning and evening routines. Apply niacinamide in the morning to assist with oil-flow and retained hydration throughout the day. Niacinamide for face can be used at night to help reinstate moisture loss. As with any effective skincare ingredient, we recommend building up topical application and reducing frequency of application if discomfort ensues.

After procedures such as micro-needling, chemical peels and laser resurfacing, potent ingredients such as retinol or vitamin C should be avoided or minimised Use of these ingredients can be recommenced when and as instructed by your clinical practitioner. When it comes to using niacinamide for skin after dermal procedures, we recommend a pared-back approach. The focus of your post-procedure skincare regime should be hydration and skin barrier repair – both of which are supported by niacinamide.