Vitamin B3 Benefits for Skin
Vitamin b3 comes in three forms: niacin (nicotinic acid), inositol hexanicotinate, and Niacinamide (nicotinamide), the last of which helps protect and repair skin cells. As a multifaceted water-soluble nutrient that works well with all skin types, Niacinamide is a top pick among skin care professionals for treating many skin conditions, including rosacea and eczema.
Common Sources of Vitamin b3
Your body can’t produce Vitamin b3 independently, so the only way to get it is through your diet or skin care routine. You probably already consume Vitamin b3-rich foods in your daily diet. Examples include green vegetables, eggs, milk, bananas, avocados, brown rice, legumes, fish, red meat, poultry, and whole grains.
However, if you truly want to reap Vitamin b3 benefits for skin, look to skin care products with Niacinamide
Vitamin b3 Benefits for Skin
So, what does Vitamin b3 do for skin? In the form of Niacinamide, it’s known to prevent transepidermal water loss, which allows moisture to leave the skin’s surface, and neutralize environmental damage. But that’s not all. Here are some other notable benefits.
Reduces Fine Lines and Wrinkles
Niacinamide stimulates ceramide synthesis and helps build keratin in your skin, resulting in a smoother, hydrated, more toned appearance. In one study, using 5 percent Niacinamide twice daily for 12 weeks significantly reduced fine lines and wrinkles while improving elasticity.
Diminishes Dark Spots
Wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen is the best way to prevent hyperpigmentation, but reach for Niacinamide if dark spots arise. Vitamin b3 works by hindering the transfer of melanosomes from melanocytes (cells that produce melanin, which gives your skin color) to keratinocytes, which make up 90 percent of the cells on your skin’s surface layer. Clinical studies found that Niacinamide significantly decreased hyperpigmentation after just four weeks of regular use.
While it’s best to consult a skin care professional, you could pair Niacinamide with other brightening agents, such as Vitamin C, for a more powerful treatment.
Strengthens the Moisture Barrier
Your skin’s natural moisture barrier can weaken due to environmental factors, harsh skin care products, and aging. Niacinamide helps the skin retain moisture, resulting in a strengthened skin barrier. This makes it an especially valuable ingredient if you have dry or mature skin.
Regulates Oil Production
While Niacinamide is a moisture-binding powerhouse, it also regulates oil production, making it perfect if you have oily or acne-prone skin. Healthy, balanced sebum levels mean less noticeable pores and fewer breakouts.
Reduces Inflammation
Niacinamide helps soothe inflammation associated with skin conditions such as acne, eczema, rosacea, and psoriasis, decreasing redness and sensitivity.
How to Use Vitamin b3 in Skin Care
You can find plenty of skin care products that leverage the benefits of Vitamin b3. Whether you’re hoping to fade dark spots, lessen the appearance of fine lines, or get your acne under control, remember that consistency is key to achieving your transformation.
Eye Cream
Genetics, allergies, age, and hyperpigmentation are just a few causes of dark under-eye circles. Vitamin b3 Eye Brightening Cream is formulated with 5 percent Niacinamide to help brighten and refresh tired eyes while reducing puffiness and the appearance of fine lines. And because sun and screens are part of daily life, this cream helps protect the delicate skin around your eyes from both ultraviolet (UV) and blue light damage, too.
Serum
If you can’t remember when you bought your sunscreen, or if it’s indeed expired, it’s generally recommended to discard and replace it with fresh product. Expired sunscreen may not provide the level of protection stated on the label and using it could increase the risk of sunburn and sun damage.