My Favorite Skincare Ingredient: Niacinamide

Getting into skincare can be intimidating, and I've heard some people say they feel like they need a chemistry degree to understand all of the different ingredients. It's true that all of the formulations and what they do and don't do, can't be mixed with, or how to use them can be intimidating, but it doesn't have to be!

*Disclaimer: Not a sponsored post.

I'm going to share one of my favorite skincare ingredients today that hits a lot of needs: it's called niacinamide. I love it because it is great for all skin types and combats a variety of needs.

Niacinamide is a topical version of Vitamin B3. You may have heard of "niacin," which is B3 in vitamin and food form. I have oily skin and use it to reduce the appearance of pores (keep in mind, nothing can actually shrink your pores) and balance sebum production. It also brightens hyperpigmentation I have from sun and acne spots.

Even if you don't have oily skin, I highly recommend adding niacinamide into your routine because of its hydrating properties. It works with the hydrating ingredients in your moisturizer to boost benefits to your skin.

Of course, as with any ingredient, there can be negative side effects. Always spot test a new ingredient in your routine before adding it in fully. Common negative side effects include redness, burning, and irritation. You should always check with your dermatologist before adding in a new ingredient if you have sensitive skin or past issues with switching up your routine.

I'm currently using the Vita B3 Source Niacinamide Serum from TIAM Skincare, a Korean brand. You can find inexpensive serums from other brands like The Ordinary and The INKEY List, too. I like using a serum because it's the most effective way to add a potent amount of niacinamide to your routine, but you may not even need one. Your moisturizer may already have niacinamide in it, as it's now commonly found in a lot of skincare. Some moisturizers with niacinamide include the Dewy Glow Moisturizer with Cherry Blossom from innisfree, Ultra Repair Firming Collagen Cream from First Aid Beauty, and the Protini Polypeptide Firming Moisturizer from Drunk Elephant.

Bottom Line: Do you use niacinamide in your routine? My skin has been so much more balanced since I started using it and I definitely recommend it for all skin types!