Large pores, inflamed skin, and skin so oily that it could possibly fuel a car – do these characteristics sound familiar? If so, niacinamide could be just the product you're looking for. 

Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 and is also a multifunctional ingredient that treats many skin concerns at once.

Its most common use is to address pore size and balance sebum production. If used routinely, niacinamide can improve skin texture, reduce signs of ageing, lighten hyperpigmentation, and relieve inflammation.

On top of all those benefits, niacinamide is also an antioxidant that can protect your skin against environmental stressors. When topical niacinamide is used correctly, it is rarely irritating. This is why some dermatologists even recommend niacinamide to calm rosacea, eczema, or keratosis pilaris. 

3 Amazing Skin Benefits

#1: Fights acne like you wouldn’t believe

If you are suffering from uncontrollable breakouts and are sensitive to salicylic acid or adapalene, consider switching to niacinamide. It’s gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin, but strong enough to treat acne. It is most effective if used twice per day for eight weeks.

#2: Brightens your complexion

Niacinamide works wonders on hyperpigmentation like acne spots, sun damage, and melasma. With a 5% niacinamide, you’ll see improvements in just 4 weeks —hyperpigmentation will lighten, skin tone will even, and your overall complexion will appear much brighter and softer.

#3: Skin plumping magic

Its ability to instantly plump skin is almost magical. Niacinamide can help boost the production of fatty molecules to keep your skin hydrated. This moisture plumps up your skin and miraculously smooths out any fine lines and wrinkles.

Despite niacinamide being a superhero ingredient, there are few things you should know before incorporating it into your routine.

Consistency Is Key

Don’t expect immediate results with niacinamide, this ingredient takes time. If you are using a product with niacinamide higher up on the ingredient list, you’ll notice balanced oil production in the first month. But improvements to acne or hyperpigmentation may not be visible until the 2/3-month mark. 

Let It Sit In

If you don’t see any improvements by the 4th month, it may be time to switch to a stronger product. But before you do that, think about why you’re not seeing results. Have you given the product enough time to absorb? Remember, this ingredient likes to work slowly so give it 2-5 minutes before layering another product. Or instead of using a cleanser with niacinamide, try a serum.

It May Be Reactive To Other Ingredients

When using niacinamide, you should check the other products in your routine. Certain ingredients counteract the effects of niacinamide and some studies have shown that a high-pH product with niacinamide can get cancelled out by a low-pH product with vitamin C. So if you’re experiencing redness or burning, see if you are mixing retinol, acids, or vitamin C with your niacinamide.

Pro Tip: Try separating your products into a daytime routine and nighttime routine or alternate your products.

SUKOSHI Picks:

• Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum Propolis + Niacinamide
• ISNTREE C-Niacin Toning Cream
• PURITO Galacto Niacin 97 Power Essence
• SOME BY MI Yuja Niacin Blemish Care Serum
• COSRX Advanced Snail Radiance Dual Essence
• ROVECTIN LHA Blemish Ampoule
• Beauty of Joseon Dynasty Cream
• Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin E Mask