The thing we miss most about being in the office – sorry, work BFFs – is the air-con. When you’re working at home in a room that is not likely to be temperature controlled, the heat and humidity can exacerbate oil production which in turn can lead to breakouts. Plus, every time you do leave your home office, you’re wearing a mask which could result in skin irritation, redness, and more breakouts.
That’s where niacinamide, or vitamin B3, comes in.
What is niacinamide?
Also known as vitamin B3 or nicotinamide, niacinamide is a water-soluble vitamin. It’s essential to skin health because it helps keep the skin barrier strong. This group of B vitamins is also particularly known for its soothing and healing benefits. But the body doesn’t make this vitamin, so you need to get from your diet or topically via your skincare. The great part about vitamin B3 is that it is suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin.
What does niacinamide do to your skin?
Dr Eileen Tan, dermatologist at Eileen Tan Skin Clinic and Associates, Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital, says the ingredient has three top benefits. It’s a powerful anti-ager as it protects cells against photodamage and environmental pollution. It is anti-inflammatory, so it will not worsen eczema, rosacea, and acne. It also helps to both boost moisture content and reduces moisture loss in the skin. Other lesser-known benefits include lightening pigmentation and reducing pore size. Plus, it’s safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Xenia Wong, founder of Sigi Skin, is a fan of niacinamide. It’s used in three of her products, including the newest Dream Capsule overnight mask. Wong started looking into the ingredient to help her own hyperpigmentation issues, then discovered it could do so much more. She says: “Many Dream Capsule users have commented that their pores look smaller and pimple scars fade faster. It also works well with moisturising ingredients to restore skin’s moisture.”
Niacinamide also co-exists well with many active ingredients, says Dr Tan. “It can be combined with retinol or azelaic acid for anti-aging and anti-inflammatory effects. It also works well with hyaluronic acid to improve skin absorption and hydration.”
Here are some niacinamide-infused skincare products to consider adding to your routine for their soothing, skin barrier strengthening, and moisturising benefits.
This article originally appeared in Cleo Singapore.
