Everything you need to know about combining Niacinamide and Retinol

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Niacinamide and retinol are both popular skin care ingredients. Each ingredient on its own can help improve skin blemishes and acne, even out skin tone, and reduce signs of aging. So if using the combination of niacinamide and retinol together is effective and safe?

1. What is the effect of Niacinamide and Retinol?

1.1 Effect of Niacinamide


Niacinamide or nicotinamide is a water-soluble form of niacin (vitamin B3), which is one of the eight B vitamins needed to maintain good health. In the human body, niacinamide helps repair DNA and control inflammation. It also increases cellular energy and allows the cell to carry out the necessary chemical activities. When applied topically, niacinamide is commonly used to help control:
Signs of aging Oil control: niacinamide works to reduce the activity of sebum-producing cells. Atopic dermatitis: niacinamide controls nuclear factor NF-kB, a protein involved in inflammation. This anti-inflammatory effect is beneficial for irritated and red skin. Autoimmune blistering disorder Hyperpigmentation: niacinamide reduces skin hyperpigmentation by inhibiting enzymes involved in melanin production. It also helps the skin retain water, strengthens the skin barrier, and keeps the skin hydrated. Itchiness Damage to the skin from the sun

Niacinamide thường được dùng để cải thiện tình trạng tăng sắc tố da
Niacinamide thường được dùng để cải thiện tình trạng tăng sắc tố da

1.2 Effects of Retinol

Retinol is an over-the-counter retinoid derived from vitamin A, an essential nutrient the body needs for immunity, vision, and cell metabolism. In skincare, retinol is a common ingredient, often used in products to help reduce and treat the following problems:
Acne: retinol works in different ways, in That retinol controls acne by reducing sebum production. Signs of aging: retinol has the ability to inhibit enzymes that destroy collagen, helping to increase collagen synthesis. This effect strengthens the skin and improves the appearance of wrinkles. Hyperpigmentation

2. The benefits of combining niacinamide and retinol


When using niacinamide and retinol together, there are many benefits. A 2008 study that examined a combination of niacinamide and retinol acid found that niacinamide reduced skin irritation and dryness caused by retinol. Additionally, a 2017 study found that retinol creams with moisturizing ingredients including niacinamide were less irritating than formulas with retinol alone. This shows that when combined with niacinamide and retinol, it will protect your skin barrier, minimizing the side effects caused by retinol.
Besides, the 2016 and 2012 studies on the combination of niacinamide and retinol showed very good treatment results, helping to improve skin tone and reduce signs of aging. Especially this combination will be safe and effective for acne skin conditions.

3. Side effects when combining niacinamide and retinol


To date there have been no studies on the downsides of this ingredient combination and they are believed to be safe in most skin types. However, if retinol-sensitive skin is also causing side effects, adding niacinamide may not be enough to correct the skin's response. The risk of unwanted effects depends on the following:
Your specific skin condition Concentrations of each ingredient Other ingredients in skin care product formulations

Chị em có da nhạy cảm dễ bị tác dụng phụ của niacinamide và retinol
Chị em có da nhạy cảm dễ bị tác dụng phụ của niacinamide và retinol

4. How to use niacinamide and retinol


Niacinamide and retinol can be combined in one product, which makes it easier and more convenient for facial care. If you're using these ingredients in separate products, apply niacinamide first and then apply the retinol to your skin. Applying niacinamide first can help protect the skin from the effects of retinol. Follow your doctor's instructions, do not use too often more than the recommended dose.
In summary, niacinamide is a gentle skin care ingredient that helps reduce signs of aging, dullness, and dark spots. Retinol has similar effects to niacinamide but is more concentrated and can cause irritation, redness, and dryness. When these two ingredients are combined, they are shown to be safe and can make retinol easier to use. Niacinamide and retinol can be combined in one product or used as separate products. Please consult your doctor for a suitable and effective course of treatment.

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Reference source: healthline.com
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