What is the effect of niacinamide in cosmetics?

This is an automatically translated article.

Cosmetic and personal care products contain many ingredients that are not well known to everyone. One of the most popular ingredients is Niacinamide. This is a form of vitamin B3, which can make skin more beautiful and healthy, and rarely causes irritation or breakouts on the skin. However, the effectiveness of niacinamide in cosmetics depends on the specific skin type and sensitivity of the skin to this nutrient.

1. What is Niacinamide in cosmetics?

Niacinamide and Niacin are forms of vitamin B3. This is an essential nutrient required for normal metabolism in every cell in the body. The recommended adult daily intake for Niacin is 20 mg, which is found in a wide variety of foods rich in vitamin B3, including yeast, meat, eggs, dairy, green vegetables and whole grains.
In cosmetics and personal care products, Niacinamide and Niacin are added to shower gels, shampoos, hair conditioners, skin moisturizers and other skin care preparations as well as products. clean.
Niacinamide is used in cosmetics and personal care products because of its ability to help improve the look and feel of hair, either by increasing shine, softness or shine, or by improving it. texture of hair that has been damaged physically or by chemical treatment. When used in the formulation of skin care products, Niacinamide and Niacin help improve dry or damaged skin by reducing flaking and restoring suppleness.

2. What is the effect of niacinamide in cosmetics on skin benefits?

Niacinamide or Vitamin B3 is an essential nutrient that helps stimulate the activity, growth and replenishment of skin cells. This vitamin plays an important role in the natural exfoliation of the epidermis (top layer of skin) as new skin cells are produced to replace dead or damaged skin cells.
Therefore, applying products with niacinamide topically has been associated with various skin benefits as follows:

2.1. Improves skin's youthfulness

There is ample evidence that topical application of vitamin B3 can have positive effects on mature skin because of its ability to fade the signs of skin ageing. Research results show that after a period of time using niacinamide, it is possible to improve the symptoms of skin aging over time or due to environmental factors such as wrinkles, fine lines, increased or decreased pigmentation, uneven skin texture, red and yellow spots, dull skin.

2.2. Stronger skin protection

When applied externally, niacinamide can strengthen the skin barrier by promoting cell turnover in the epidermis. Since the epidermis is the outermost layer of the skin, this cell layer is constantly exposed to harmful external factors, also known as free radicals. This may include UV rays, pollution, oxidative stress, extreme temperatures, cosmetic chemicals, etc.
Accordingly, when topically applied vitamin B3, this nutrient can stimulate synthesis ceramides and facilitate the binding of lipids in the epidermis. In this way, niacinamide can strengthen the skin barrier and thicken the epidermis to reduce the risk of external damage caused by allergens, bacteria, and other free radicals. This process can lead to improved skin's ability to retain moisture and hydrate over a longer period of time, making niacinamide the preferred choice for those with skin that is prone to dryness and is prone to dehydration.

2.3. Reduce symptoms of acne

Acne (also known as inflammatory acne) is one of the most difficult skin conditions to treat because of its complex nature. This condition includes inflamed, dry skin caused by overactive sebaceous glands and sensitive pores. Fortunately, evidence shows that topical products containing 2-4% niacinamide along with supplements of vitamin B3 (niacinamide), zinc, copper, and folic acid can be used to reduce inflammation and improve health. Improve symptoms of acne.
For cases of non-inflammatory acne, including milia, blackheads, pimples, redness, and other skin imperfections, studies have also suggested that topical products containing niacinamide have a beneficial effect on the skin. can be used effectively in the treatment of this type of acne. Besides, due to its antibacterial properties, this cosmetic ingredient has been linked to a reduced risk of inflammation and improved overall skin condition in people with oily and acne-prone skin.

3. What are the side effects of vitamin B3?

Although dermatological studies indicate that topical niacinamide at 2% - 4% is a safe cosmetic ingredient and is unlikely to cause allergic reactions, some individuals may experience sensitization. cold.
It's true that any topical skin care product used on sensitive skin can worsen existing skin conditions, causing clogged pores, burning, and itching. and skin redness, including exposure to niacinamide.
Accordingly, when you are concerned that you may be allergic or irritated by the active or inactive ingredients in a topical product, you should test a small sample on your skin first. in official use. Specifically, users can apply a small amount of cosmetics containing Vitamin B3 to the skin of the inner arm or neck and cover with a non-stick layer overnight. The next morning, if the skin is red, red, itchy or has a feeling of irritation, do not continue to use this cosmetic on the face. Therefore, always use cosmetics with caution and safety, the face should not be the location for experimentation.
On the other hand, it is worth noting that, scientific evidence shows that both oral niacin and oral niacinamide in some people can also increase already existing allergic reactions by increasing the production of histamine in the body. . Therefore, in these subjects, niacinamide in cosmetics should not be an option worth considering.
In summary, niacinamide is a metabolic product of vitamin B3. The effect of niacinamide in cosmetics has been shown to protect the skin, improve skin aging as well as control acne. However, like any topical cosmetic, users should test the skin's tolerance to avoid irritation before use, so that the cosmetic benefits the skin in the most perfect way.

Please dial HOTLINE for more information or register for an appointment HERE. Download MyVinmec app to make appointments faster and to manage your bookings easily.

References: healthline.com, cosmeticsinfo.org