Has Been Shown Effective For Acne Treatment
In a 2013 study, researchers found 4% niacinamide was just as effective as 1% clindamycin at treating moderate acne. In this review, 6 out of 8 studies found the topical use of niacinamide to lead to a significant reduction in acne when compared to a patient baseline. The short version? Niacinamide can support acne treatment.
Can Niacinamide Cause Acne
Straight answer, Niacinamide, does not cause acne. However, when used in excess, it can irritate the skin and cause blemishes. In this article, we will try to shed more light on this.
We will also try to know the answer to related questions that are frequently asked, such as Does niacinamide make you break out? Why does niacinamide make me break out? What are the side effects of niacinamide? Is niacinamide good for acne-prone skin?
Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, is a prominent ingredient in commercial cosmetic formulations for years. It has recently been popping up in all types of skin care products due to its recognizable and desirable attributes.
Niacinamide, otherwise called nicotinamide, is one of two variants of vitamin B3 found in supplements and skincare products. It is popular because of how it helps in managing acne, hyperpigmentation, and wrinkles.
Evidence also shows that topical application of niacinamide can also increase lipids production that helps maintain the skins protective barrier, which keeps the skin moist. Due to its anti-inflammatory abilities, it is used in treating inflammatory skin conditions, like acne.
Besides topical formulations, oral niacinamide supplements have shown the ability to reduce inflammation associated with acne, especially when oral antibiotics arent an option.
How much niacinamide is safe for the skin? From what research shows, niacinamide of concentrations of up to 5% shows no side effects.
The Best Niacinamide Products To Try
A personal favourite of Dr Ho, The Ordinarys Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% works well on her skin without causing irritation. Currently, onto her second bottle, continual usage of this product has boosted both her skins immunity and tolerance of retinoids. With the high-low combination and the hard-to-ignore hype surrounding this product, take this as a sign from the universe to finally get your hands on themthough, we caution that with a high concentration of 10% vitamin B3, it may be slightly harsh for patients with sensitive skin. If youre unsure, its always best to do a patch test before you fully commit.
The Ordinarys Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
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Side Effects Of Niacinamide
Most clinical studies show that niacinamide is safe. Side effects are possible, even with the topical forms. The most common side effects with topical niacinamide are mild and include mild burning, itching, redness, and irritation .
Oral niacinamide may have more side effects since it circulates throughout the body, including nausea, diarrhea, and heartburn .
You may experience some redness and irritation when you start using niacinamide products. Some of this may be normal and lessen over time, but lasting irritation may be a sign youre using too much or a product with too high of a concentration of niacinamide for your skin type.
Talk to your dermatologist or healthcare provider if you notice irritation, as they may be able to clarify whats a normal transition period with your product and when you may need to consider a different product.
May Help Prevent And Treat Acne
The sebaceous glands produce sebum, or oil, on your face, neck, upper chest, and back. Topical 2% niacinamide may lower sebum production in your skin. Excess oil can cause acne, so niacinamides ability to regulate oil production may help prevent and treat breakouts, especially in people with oily skin. It may also be a good addition to other acne treatments .
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How Do You Know If Niacinamide Is Not Working
The best way to know if niacinamide is or is not working is to have a skin consultation with your dermatologist. A dermatologist can also advise you on how much of it to use, how often to apply it, and what other products would be helpful.
Moreover, if your skin feels tight or as though its burning or stinging when you use niacinamide, discontinue use and consult with a dermatologist as soon as possible because these are signs that niacinamide is not working for you.
Are There Any Side Effects
The side effects of niacinamide are rare, but you should consider them before applying it topically or taking it orally as a supplement.
If you have oily skin, too much niacinamide can create an effect called flushing as your blood vessels dilate to release heat from the body, Khalil says.
Furthermore, it is important to avoid using niacinamide if youre taking blood-thinning medications or have a bleeding disorder as it will increase your risk of bleeding. It may also decrease the effectiveness of birth control pills and antibiotics.
In some rare cases, niacinamide can cause side effects such as diarrhea, dizziness, headache, runny nose, and rash. To prevent this, ensure to consult with a doctor before using any niacinamide supplements or products for your skin.
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Okay First But What Exactly Is Niacin
Fantastic question!
So niacin, in short, is vitamin B3. There are other forms, or vitamers, of B3all of which come together to make Vitamin B Complexbut niacin is often thrown around as vitamin B. And the main reason why your body needs B3 is so it can convert it into Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, or NAD.
NAD is essential in creating energy for the cells in our body. Energy that enables those cells to function their everyday functions like repairing themselves, and maintain the chemical reactions essential for day-to-day life.
But theres more to the story here, as Vitamin B, or niacin, helps regulate lipidswhich is the scientific name for fats and fatty acids. One well-established talent of niacin is its ability to help raise HCL cholesterol, which is the good cholesterol associated with heart health, and lower LDL cholesterol, or bad cholesterol which is related to heart disease.
Can I Use Niacinamide Around My Eyes
Yes. Products containing niacinamide can be used, with your moisturiser or eye cream, to brighten dark circles, soften the appearance of crows feet and resist moisture loss and subsequent firmness, leaving your skin feeling brighter and younger looking. For maximum benefit, always use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF30.
Discover the Lemons Hi-Function Foundation with Niacinamide
- Experimental Dermatology, February 2019, Supplement 1, pages 15-22 and October 2018, ePublication
- Dermatologic Therapy, September 2017, ePublication
- Journal of Investigative Dermatology, May 2017, page S116
- International Journal of Pharmaceutics, March 2017, pages 158-162 and January 2013, Pages 192-201
- Facial Plastic Surgery Clinics of North America, May 2016 , pages 145-152
- Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology, July 2015, pages 405-412
- Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, June 2014, pages 311-315
- International Journal of Pharmacy, January 2013, pages 192-201
- Dermatoendrocrinology, July 2012, pages 308-319
- Dermatologic Surgery, Volume 31, Part 2, 2005, Discussion 865
- International Journal of Cosmetic Science, October 2004, pages 231-238
- Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, March 2004, pages 88-93
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How Long Does It Take For Niacinamide To Work
Youll notice some effects immediately although most of the studies on niacinamide showed results after 8-12 weeks. Look for products containing 5% niacinamide. Thats the percentage thats been proven to visibly make a difference without causing any irritation. Products with higher concentrations do exist, although you might find theyre best targeted onto individual areas, instead, as they can be slightly more irritating.
The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + Ha
If glycolic acid is too strong for your skin, The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA is another option to help speed up cellular turnover and exfoliate the skin to reduce discoloration and scarring from post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. It contains 10% lactic acid to gently exfoliate and clarify the skin, even out skin tone, and reduce dullness.
Like The Ordinarys glycolic toner, this formula also contains a purified Tasmanian Pepperberry derivative that helps to reduce inflammation and sensitivity that often comes also with acid use. This serum should not be used by those who have sensitive, peeling or compromised skin.
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Niacinamide: Best Products According To Dermatologists
. Today, it is regarded as one of the safest active ingredients for treating acne, rosacea, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. This compound’s effects are incredibly well researched, with results published in the most respected dermatological journals, and is frequently used in high-quality skincare
) is a water-soluble vitamin often found in many creams and serums. Unlike AHA or BHA , which are acids , Niacinamide is neutral, tends to be gentler on the skin, and doesnt cause irritation. Because its so easy on the skin, Niacinamide and is commonly recommended by Dermatologists as an alternative to prescription acne medications.
General Guidance On Using Niacinamide
As with most acne treatments, niacinamide takes time to work and you should allow for twelve weeks of use before determining whether or not the product has worked for you.
It is not advised that you continue to use niacinamide once your acne has healed as there is little evidence to suggest that it will help in preventing your acne from returning. However, topical niacinamide may help to reduce the skin discolouration, such as red and brown patches, that is left by acne.
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How Else Can You Control Oily Skin
There are many tips to help control oily skin. Some people find that making adjustments to their diet and lifestyle can help. Others use prescription medications and other treatments like salicylic acid.
Here are some tips for oily skin:
- Wash your face about three times a day, using a gentle cleanser and warm water.
- Use skincare products that are specifically designed for oily skin and use gentle motions when washing the skin.
- Avoid greasy foods and drinks, such as french fries or soda.
- Keep your hands away from your face as much as possible.
- Sleep on a pillowcase that has been sewn shut to prevent oil from getting onto your sheets.
- Remember not to over wash your skin or use too many products, as this can cause an increase in oil production.
Niacinamide For Acne: Does It Work
Medically reviewed by Katelyn Hagerty, FNP
Acne is a problem that never seems to go away, on a personal or social level. Blemishes have been around forever, yet social media and other social factors have intensified our visibility when it comes to having less than perfect skin.
And just as acne is nothing new, so is the search for the right fix. Enter: niacinamideone of the lastest acne fighters in the game.
Despite the clinical-sounding name, niacinamide is a naturally occurring B vitamin compound youve probably already consumed today.
Niacinamide is generally safe as an acne treatment, but it does come with some warnings. Heres all you need to know about niacinamide and acne.
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Can You Use Niacinamide With Vitamin C
You can use niacinamide and vitamin C in the same skincare routine. But whether you can apply them at the same time or not depends on the pH level of your vitamin C. Non-acidic vitamin C derivatives can be applied at the same time as niacinamide, since they will have a similar pH level. Acidic forms of vitamin C should be used at a different time than niacinamide, since they have very different pH levels.
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Niacinamide is also an anti-inflammatory so its useful in unclogging pores and reducing blemishes, explains Dr Bunting.
In fact, in an eight-week study, in which acne patients were treated with a 4% niacinamide gel, 82% were considered improved and there were no side effects. In a similar rosacea study, 24 out of 36 patients showed an improvement. And when all the above are eased? Youll notice smaller pores, too.
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Does Niacinamide Help With Hyperpigmentation
It helps to promote skin healing, so its good for anyone who has damaged or broken skin, says Dizon, adding that this makes it particularly helpful for reducing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. There are a ton of people out there who whenever they get a pimple, theres always going to be some kind of a scar thats left over because of it. The idea is that by promoting healing and curbing inflammation, which triggers the production of pigment, niacinamide can alleviate acne scarring.
The evidence supporting niacinamides effects on hyperpigmentation is unfortunately limited. One 2011 study found that a 4 per cent niacinamide treatment was less effective than 4 per cent hydroquinone for treating melasma, but was accompanied with fewer side-effects. Kelletts take? There are other things that you can use for hyperpigmentation that are more effective. She recommends things like azelaic acid, kojic acid or arbutin, depending on the underlying cause. Dizon also says, You cant go wrong with vitamin C when youre concerned about pigmentation.
Can Niacinamide Cause Acne What You Need To Know
Can niacinamide truly cause acne? That is a question we would love to answer, but first, what is the link between acne and niacinamide?
Acne is a skin condition where the hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. Niacinamide, on the other hand, is a variant of an essential nutrient- vitamin B-3, and it is sometimes also called nicotinamide, mostly found in many creams and serums.
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How To Choose The Right Strength
If youre new to niacinamide, I recommend starting with a concentration around 5%. This is more than enough to get results, since the clinical studies demonstrating its efficacy were conducted with amounts between 2-5%.
At this strength, it has virtually no side effects. Niacinamide can be used at high doses topically and is generally well-tolerated, noted one group of researchers, adding that in some rare cases mild skin irritation has been observed.
According to Dr. Joshua Zeichner, irritation is usually because of another ingredient. It likely was one of the preservatives in the product causing the irritation, not the niacinamide itself, he says.
That said, higher concentrations between 15-20% have recently become available for treating stubborn clogging and textural issues. These are more likely to cause stinging or redness in sensitive skin. If this happens, try switching to a 5-10% product instead.
What Results Can You Expect
As with any new skin care product, you probably wont see any significant results for several weeks.
Although most of the available research describes noticeable improvements after four weeks of use, theres no exact timeline.
You may see even more changes to your skin after eight weeks. This includes smoother, toned, and hydrated skin.
If you dont see any changes within a couple of months, it may be time to consult with a dermatologist. They can assess your skin care routine and advise you on which products to use, dietary changes that may improve your skin health, and more.
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How Do I Apply Niacinamide
The beauty of niacinamide is that itll slot extremely easily into your existing routines. Its found in everything from cleansers and moisturisers to serums, toners and sunscreens.
Dr Bunting suggests using a niacinamide serum or moisturiser at night and a sunscreen spiked with it in the morning. Its safe to use all over and there are no rules about how to apply it although the same ethos stands as with all skincare. Use your thinnest, most fluid products first and your thicker creams or oils after. Dr Bunting advises applying seven drops of most serums.
How Niacinamide Works In Your Body
Niacinamide is formed when we eat foods that are high in niacin, such as beef liver, chicken breast and rice. The niacin is converted into niacinamide in the gut, and then absorbed. Once it absorbs, it gets metabolized into the coenzyme NAD and its derivative, NADP.
These coenzymes are essential for cellular metabolism, meaning they give our cells the energy they need to carry out their functions. In fact, they are involved in more than 40 biochemical reactions, including such important jobs as DNA repair and cell turnover.
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Struthealthcom Treats Acne Online
Here at Strut Health, weâre well aware of the benefits of niacinamide which is why we included it in our prescription-strength, compound acne-fighting formula.
If you are dealing with stubborn acne and want to see if our formula is right for you, complete our free questionnaire-based doctor’s consultation online.
If it turns out you are a good fit for our acne formula, we will send it right to your door!
Is Niacinamide Good For Hormonal Acne
Niacinamide is one product that has been very successful in treating hormonal acne. It acts on multiple fronts to reduce redness and inflammation, kill bacteria and reduce oil production.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, hormonal acne is the most common type of acne, accounting for about 75% of all cases. It occurs as a result of fluctuating hormones, which can be caused by several factors.
These fluctuating hormones cause an overproduction of oil in the skins sebaceous glands. The excess oil clogs pores and blocks hair follicles, causing whiteheads and blackheads, Altchek explains.
Niacinamide works by reducing the production of oil, which leads to less clogged pores and hormonal acne. It also reduces redness and inflammation, making your skin texture and tone healthier.
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