Niacinamide: what is it and how does this active benefit your skin

Niacinamide or vitamin B3, as it is better known, is widely used in dermatological treatments and guarantees many benefits to the skin. Therefore, it is present in various dermocosmetic formulations. Learn more about this substance, its main indications and how to use it below!

What is niacinamide?

We consulted Dr. Simone Veloso, Master in Dermatology from USP, CRM: 5255218, to clarify the use and indications of this asset widely used in dermatological treatments.

According to the dermatologist, niacinamide or niacin is a substance used for over 40 years in dermatology for the treatment of inflammatory conditions such as acne and rosacea.

Its use creates a kind of skin barrier, reducing transepidermal water loss and improving the hydration of the horny layer.

It has been proven that there are improvements in the superficial structures of the skin, such as the smoothing of wrinkles and inhibition of photocarcinogenesis (skin cancer induced by ultraviolet radiation).

7 amazing benefits of niacinamide

1. Maintains skin hydration (Main indication): increases the number of natural ceramides in the skin;
2. Combats aging: reduces fine lines and wrinkles by promoting increased skin elasticity;
3. Anti-inflammatory action: its anti-inflammatory properties allow its use as an adjunct to potentially serious diseases, such as pemphigus vulgaris and psoriasis;
4. Helps in the fight against acne: the application of niacinamide ensures greater hydration for the skin and helps in the topical treatment of mild to moderate acne;
5. Regulates sebum production: its anti-inflammatory action also improves skin texture and helps regulate sebum secretion;
6. Reduces pigmentation: the active prevents melanin from spreading, softening spots caused by hyperpigmentation;
7. Helps reduce sensitivity: Vitamin B3 helps reduce water loss, resulting in a stronger skin barrier.

Did you see? In addition to leaving your skin hydrated, niacinamide takes care of many other demands and even prevents diseases!

When and how to use niacinamide?

According to the doctor. Simone Veloso, the use of vitamin B3 has excellent results in the following situations:

• Hyperpigmentation (dark spots): it is an effective and comprehensive therapeutic alternative for the treatment of melasma. In addition to reducing pigmentation and inflammation, it decreases degenerative changes caused by the sun (photoaging).
• Acne: application of niacinamide is a safe treatment. A gel containing 5% niacinamide is an appropriate treatment because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce erythema (redness), and its lightening effects, which can help reduce post-acne hyperpigmentation.
• Seborrheic Dermatitis: Includes several options with different success rates and safety limitations. Topical niacinamide may have potential in the treatment of seborrheic dermatitis.

Its use can be systemic or topical. The topic is through creams, lotions, gels and ointments. However, the guidance of the doctor is necessary, who will detail the treatment according to each case.

Products with niacinamide for you to try

Check out some products that contain niacinamide in their formulation that can be found in virtual stores:

1. Vitamin B3 Serum – Niacinamide 5%, at Americanas
2. Coenzyme Q10 Liposomes Mask, Vit. B3 and La Vertuan Zinc Oxide, at Shoptime
3. Niacinamide 4% Gel Cream, in Fmilligram
4. Niacinamide 4% – Gel-cream, at Americanas
5. Cream Gel with Azeloglycine and Niacinamide, at Fmilligram
6. Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, in the Free Market

Always consult your dermatologist before purchasing any product, even for topical use. Thus, you guarantee the beauty and safety of your skin!

Contraindications and side effects

According to the dermatologist, no side effects are observed during the treatment. Niacinamide can be used on all skin types, including those with sensitive skin and/or melasma. There is no formal contraindication, but always follow medical advice.

Niacinamide is already featured in several dermocosmetic products, due to its excellent properties to treat inflammation and moisturize the skin. If you found this content useful, how about knowing about salicylic acid and its benefits for the skin!