CHRONICLE VIII: INGREDIENT SPOTLIGHT: NIACINAMIDE

Hero. All rounder. A star. Miracle Ingredient. These are some of the words used to describe Niacinamide. Also known as Vitamin B3, Niacinamide is a powerhouse skincare ingredient that has achieved cult status for two main reasons:

1. It’s a true multi-tasker and works to address a whole range of skincare concerns, including unevenness, dullness, hyperpigmentation, dehydration, redness, breakouts and even the signs of aging.
2. It’s beneficial for almost everyone, of all ages & skin types. Niacinamide is non-sensitising, which means it is generally well tolerated, and is unlikely to cause irritation. It’s also highly compatible with other ingredients in your skincare regimen, whether that’s Hyaluronic Acid, Peptides, Vitamin C, Retinol or AHAs/BHAs. Plus, you can use multiple products containing Niacinamide at the same time, whether they’re washed off (such as a cleanser) or leave on (such as a Sheet Mask).

Almost everyone can benefit from incorporating Niacinamide into their skincare regimen, and here’s exactly how:

If your skin-tone is uneven or you have hyperpigmentation…

When you see dark spots or patches on your skin, that’s called hyperpigmentation. It’s an increase of melanin and is often the result of sun damage or aging, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation left after breakouts heal. Niacinamide has been proven to actively fade dark spots and inhibit the transfer of melanin in the skin, leaving it looking more even.

If your skin is feeling inflamed, red or upset…

Niacinamide has anti-inflammatory properties which help reduce redness & active breakouts as well as soothe the skin. Further, it regulates the production of oil in the skin which can prevent future breakouts from occurring.

If your skin is dry or dehydrated…

By increasing the production of ceramides (which make up around 50% of the top layer of your skin) Niacinamide strengthens the skin barrier. This means the skin is better able to retain moisture & will look plump & dewier.

If you are seeing the signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles…

Niacinamide’s ability to strengthen the skin’s barrier also provides anti-aging benefits. By activating the production of collagen, ceramides & keratin, which are the building blocks of the skin, Niacinamide helps restore the skin. With increased elasticity, fine lines & wrinkles are evened out & the skin appears smoother.

Ultimately, Niacinamide boosts brightness, improves skin tone & prevents the signs of aging, leaving skin looking glowing, even & radiant.

Niacinamide is in our Brightening & Anti-Aging Sheet Mask, $13 for one mask or $30 for three masks.