Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
A gentle form of vitamin B3 that strengthens the barrier, helps skin look less oily and evens the look of tone; suits most skin types.
niacinamide, nicotinamide, vitamin B3
Barrier support · Pigmentation & dark spots · Redness · Blemish-prone skin · Texture & large pores
What it does
Niacinamide is a formidable ingredient from the vitamin B family, lauded for its ability to strengthen the skin barrier and improve skin tone and texture. Niacinamide is used to tackle a legion of skin concerns, including the look of pigmentation, redness, enlarged pores, excess oil and reduced skin elasticity. Gentle and well tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive and blemish-prone skin, it works well alongside most other actives.
How it works
Niacinamide helps support the skin's barrier lipids, such as ceramides and fatty acids, which is why it suits maturing and dry skin. It helps brighten the complexion and even the look of tone (in studies, it limits the transfer of pigment to surface skin cells), and reduces water loss while helping skin look less oily and strengthening the barrier against common irritants such as pollution.
Around 2 to 5 per cent is the most studied strength; higher strengths, up to 20 per cent, aren't necessarily better and can irritate sensitive skin. It pairs well with hyaluronic acid for dry skin, with vitamin C or tranexamic acid for uneven tone, and with retinoids, where it can help offset dryness.
MG says
I especially love niacinamide for stressed or reactive skin, or when you've gone a little overboard with the actives, as it helps support the barrier. It's also in every version of Biologique Recherche Lotion P50, my number one product. Pair it with a broad-spectrum sunscreen during the day to protect skin from the damaging effects of the sun.
Cautions
Niacinamide is gentle, but high strengths (10 per cent and above) can cause temporary redness or tingling in sensitive skin, so start lower if you're reactive. It is often suggested as a brightener during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but if you're pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding, check with your doctor, midwife or pharmacist before using it.
