Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 used in cosmetics to support the skin barrier, even out skin tone and control shine. It suits almost all skin types and, as it isn’t photosensitising, it can be used morning and evening. It pairs well with hyaluronic acid, peptides, bakuchiol and vitamin C.
Niacinamide is one of the most sought-after ingredients in face care, and for good reason: it is versatile, well tolerated and suitable for almost all skin types. Let’s look at what it is, what it does and how to use it the right way.
What is niacinamide?
Niacinamide, also called nicotinamide, is a form of vitamin B3. It is water-soluble, stable and easy to combine with other ingredients: that is why you find it in serums, creams and toners.
On the label, you’ll recognise it by its INCI name, Niacinamide.
Niacinamide: what it does
In cosmetics, niacinamide is used for several purposes.
- Supports the skin barrier: helps the skin hold on to water and stay hydrated.
- Evens out the complexion: helps make dark spots and discolouration less visible.
- Regulates shine: it is popular for combination and oily skin.
- Refines skin texture: pores look less noticeable.
- Improves the look of fine lines, for visibly smoother skin.
These are cosmetic benefits, meaning they concern the appearance of the skin, and they require consistent use: it usually takes a few weeks before you notice them.
Which skin types it suits
It is one of the few ingredients suitable for almost everyone:
- dry or dehydrated skin, for skin barrier support;
- combination or oily skin, for shine and pores;
- mature skin, for complexion and fine lines;
- sensitive skin, because it is usually well tolerated.
How to use niacinamide in your face care routine
You can use it morning and evening, all year round: it is not photosensitising. The order depends on the product it is in: the steps are those of the skincare routine.
- Cleansing.
- Toner.
- Serum with niacinamide.
- Cream.
- In the morning, sun protection.
As for concentration, in cosmetics it is usually found at between 2% and 10%. A higher percentage is not necessarily better: on sensitive skin it is more likely to cause redness.
Which ingredients it pairs with
- Hyaluronic acid: the simplest pairing, for hydration.
- Peptides: combined in formulas designed for tone and elasticity.
- Retinol or bakuchiol: often used together with niacinamide, which supports the skin barrier.
- Vitamin C: the two can be used in the same routine. If you have sensitive skin, you can use them at different times of the day.
Niacinamide: contraindications and side effects
Niacinamide is considered a safe and well-tolerated ingredient. In some cases, especially at high concentrations or on very sensitive skin, mild redness or a feeling of warmth may appear. If this happens, use it less often or choose a less concentrated formula.
When you try a new product, apply a small amount to a limited area and wait 24 hours before using it on your whole face. If you have dermatitis or other skin conditions, ask your dermatologist for advice.
Niacinamide in pregnancy
Niacinamide for cosmetic use is usually considered compatible with pregnancy and breastfeeding, unlike retinol, which is not recommended during this time. Every pregnancy is different, though: before introducing a new product, talk to your doctor or gynaecologist.
Niacinamide before and after: what to expect
The “before and after” photos you find online often create unrealistic expectations. With niacinamide, changes are gradual: more even, less shiny and more comfortable skin. Give your routine at least four weeks of consistent use before judging it.
Niacinamide in Mialica products
In the Mialica Linea Viso, niacinamide is found in two products:
- the Face Serum, together with peptides, hyaluronic acid and bakuchiol;
- the 24H Face Cream, together with peptides, hyaluronic acid and exosomes.
They are used one after the other, morning and evening: first the serum, then the cream.
In summary
Niacinamide is used to support the skin barrier, even out the complexion and regulate shine. It suits almost all skin types, can be used morning and evening and pairs well with the other ingredients in your routine. As with any cosmetic, consistency is what makes the difference.
This article is for information purposes only and is not a substitute for the advice of a doctor or healthcare professional. If you have a medical condition, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are undergoing treatment, ask your doctor for advice before taking supplements.
