What is niacinamide?

Niacinamides is a vitamin B3 and its core function in the body includes: aiding enzymes in converting food into energy and playing a role in over 200 enzymatic reactions. Its effects on the skin are wide-ranging. By assisting in the synthesis of fatty acids and other cellular functions, it supports the skin's natural renewal process.

What niacinamide does for skin:

• Calms Redness and Blemish Flare-Ups: Say goodbye to those pesky red spots and inflamed skin. Niacinamide has anti-inflammatory properties, making it perfect for calming our skin, especially when break outs occur.

• Pore Minimizer: Although it doesn't literally minimize pores, niacinamide smoothens our skin's texture, making pores appear less noticeable. Plus, it helps regulate oil production, which is great news for my fellow oily-skinned queens

• Fights Hyperpigmentation: If you're troubled by uneven skin tone or dark spots, niacinamide can help. It diligently brightens and evens out the skin.

• Ultra Hydrating: One of niacinamide's superpowers is boosting hydration. It strengthens our skin's lipid barrier, ensuring moisture stays locked in.

• Anti-Wrinkle: This ingredient is armed with antioxidant properties, ready to combat signs of aging. It aids in skin recovery and helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

You can find more information from the Cleveland Clinic.

But not all serums are created equal. Below I have a breakdown of two niacinamide serums that have certain properties that stand out more than others. 

What niacinamide serum should you use?

If you have oily skin use The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum

The Ordinary blends a potent concentration of niacinamide with zinc, focusing on calming inflammation and regulating sebum - the waxy residue you might notice on your skin. This serum is perfect for those who want to see smooth, calm and even skin. Since this is a stronger potion, I recommend only using this at night as a part of a rotation style skin care routine, applying this every 3-4 days. As always, test a small amount of it on your skin to start. If that goes well, try using it once a week before making it a staple in your regimen.

• Redness 

• Shrink Those Pores

• Dark Spots Diminished

If you have dry or dull skin use Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops 

This hydrating serum is packed with hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and moringa oil giving the skin an almost highlighting effect when applied. Its popularity skyrocketed after beauty TikToker GLAMZILLA raved about it, crediting the serum for her skin's dewy, glowy, and healthy appearance. If protecting your skin from free radicals, having a healthy glow and hydrating your skin is your goal, then this is the serum for you. I would use this in the AM before you apply make up, or even on your no make up days to take advantage of that gorgeous glassy skin effect.

• Hydrating

• Anti-Wrinkle

Personally, I have used both of these products and have loved them for their distinct benefits. However, for the specific benefits I seek from niacinamide (such as smaller pores, reduced inflammation, and oil control), The Ordinary works best for my skin type. When I aim to hydrate my skin and achieve a luminous glow, I turn to the CeraVe Hyaluronic Acid serum and oils like Radha Rosehip Oil and Pure Body Naturals Sweet Almond Oil.

In conclusion, moderation is key. I do not recommend using both of these products on the same day. Choose the one that best addresses your needs and see how you skin feels in a few weeks. Good luck! <3

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FAQ

Q: Is niacinamide ok to use everyday?

A: It depends on what brand you are using and what your skin goals are. For a gentle, hydrating formula like the Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops this is most likely safe to use everyday. One with a stronger concentration like The Ordinary Niacinamdie 10% + Zinc 1% Serum should be used sparingly, I recommend adding it to a skin cycle routine and applying every 3-4 days.

Q: Who should not use niacinamide?

A: Those with sensitive skin should probably start with the more gentle Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops and test it out on a small amount of skin at first. If the skin doesn't become irritated you can try building up tone once a week and then increase from there.

Q: Who should not use niacinamide?

A: Those with sensitive skin should probably start with the more gentle Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops and test it out on a small amount of skin at first. If the skin doesn't become irritated you can try building up tone once a week and then increase from there.

This blog post contains affiliate links.

Disclaimer: Author is not a Dermatologist or Licensed Aesthetician, please consult with a Professional before trying any new products.