With so many creams and serums claiming to give you radiant skin, it can be overwhelming to figure out what's worth trying. But niacinamide skincare might be the answer to simplifying your routine. At YUNI, we're passionate about sharing plant-based solutions that are backed by science to improve your skin's health, while also fitting seamlessly into your busy lifestyle.
If the expansive world of skincare leaves you unsure of where to start, and you're seeking a solution that checks multiple boxes, then niacinamide skincare should be on your radar. Niacinamide has been proven effective in clinical studies to address common concerns like enlarged pores, dullness, and uneven skin tone—without the worry of negative side effects. The ingredient has been a beauty staple for decades, but recently, it's gaining new attention as an emerging skincare trend, especially for its multi-tasking benefits.
We'll explore the numerous benefits of niacinamide skincare and where this hero ingredient comes from.
What is Niacinamide?
While it may sound highly scientific, niacinamide is simply a form of vitamin B3 that helps stimulate the synthesis of collagen and keratin, both essential for maintaining skin's structure and elasticity. Also known as nicotinamide, niacinamide is a versatile ingredient that’s commonly used in skincare products because it’s proven to penetrate deep into the dermis—something many popular ingredients struggle to do effectively.
Niacinamide is crucial for creating NAD and NADP, two molecules that support over 40 reactions within your skin cells. These processes include repairing damage, reducing the effects of aging, and boosting your skin's natural antioxidant defenses against environmental stressors.
What’s more, clinical studies show that niacinamide has minimal side effects, especially when compared to potent ingredients like AHAs or retinol, making it gentle enough for even sensitive skin types.
The Many Niacinamide Benefits
Whether you're reaching for a niacinamide serum, face cream, or even a cleanser, this powerhouse ingredient has something for everyone. Backed by research, niacinamide offers a wide range of benefits for all skin types, making it a must-have in your clean beauty routine. Let’s break down what this versatile, skin-loving ingredient can do for you:
Reduces redness
Niacinamide is known for its ability to calm the skin. If you struggle with irritation, rosacea, or general redness, niacinamide steps in to soothe and balance the skin, promoting a more even, peaceful complexion. It works by reducing inflammatory markers and improving the skin’s barrier function, which helps skin better retain moisture and fend off irritants that can cause redness.
Niacinamide for acne
Niacinamide is an excellent ingredient for acne-prone skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce the severity of breakouts, while also working to regulate sebum production. Studies have shown that niacinamide for acne can reduce the appearance of both inflammatory (like papules) and non-inflammatory acne (like blackheads), making it an effective, gentler alternative to more irritating ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Plus, it helps fade post-acne marks faster, speeding up recovery from blemishes.
Minimizes pore size and appearance
One of niacinamide's most beloved benefits is its ability to visibly minimize the look of pores. By regulating oil production and preventing congestion, niacinamide helps keep pores clean and less noticeable. Over time, skin appears smoother and more refined, making niacinamide a go-to ingredient for those looking to address large, visible pores without harsh treatments.
Improves skin elasticity
As we grow older, our skin naturally becomes less firm, but that doesn’t mean we can’t help it look and feel its best. Niacinamide supports the skin’s natural resilience by boosting collagen and elastin production—proteins that keep skin looking smooth and firm. By including niacinamide in your routine, you can help maintain your skin’s natural elasticity, resulting in a healthy, lifted appearance that feels strong and healthy.
Lightens hyperpigmentation
Dark spots and uneven skin tone caused by sun damage, acne, or hormonal changes can be visibly improved with niacinamide. By inhibiting melanin transfer to the skin's surface, niacinamide helps lighten hyperpigmentation over time, leading to a more radiant, even complexion.
Improves skin texture and tone
Smooth, even-textured skin is the foundation of a healthy-looking complexion, and niacinamide excels in refining texture. It strengthens the skin barrier, encourages cell turnover, and boosts hydration, all of which contribute to softer, smoother skin. Over time, skin becomes more resilient, balanced, and supple, with an even tone that radiates from within.
Lessens the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Niacinamide is one of the most well-researched anti-aging ingredients in skincare. It stimulates the production of proteins and lipids that support skin structure, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Regular use can result in a smoother, more youthful complexion, as niacinamide helps restore skin’s natural moisture barrier and encourages the production of skin-smoothing proteins like collagen.
Who should use niacinamide skincare?
As you can see from the laundry list of benefits, niacinamide is a true hero ingredient that can improve the overall health of virtually anyone’s skin.
Both men and women of all ages can experience a difference in their skin’s appearance with niacinamide. It’s truly the perfect choice for anyone looking for a simple solution to enhance their skin’s overall health (and who isn’t?). Whether you want to balance your complexion, keep breakouts and redness at bay, or give your skin a youthful boost without the pesky side effects, niacinamide can be an effective option.
We love how flexible niacinamide skincare is—you can use it whenever you choose. There are no tricky rules about when or how to apply it, so there’s no need to worry about product interactions or sun sensitivity. There’s nothing better than having a go-to product with anti-aging benefits that fits seamlessly into your active lifestyle.
While studies and user feedback have shown that niacinamide is gentle and can even help reduce redness and irritation, we recommend patch-testing any new products before applying them to your face.
Shop Niacinamide Skincare
We know you don’t want to overthink your skincare routine. With work, family, friends, and your passions to focus on, skincare should be simple.
Meet Balancing Act, our latest vegan, cruelty-free, and plant-based skincare essential. This powerful niacinamide face cream works in sync with your skin's natural repair process, maintaining optimal moisture balance to help your skin thrive. Plant-sourced Mevalonic Acid enhances collagen and hyaluronic acid production, while niacinamide minimizes the appearance of enlarged pores and fortifies your skin's moisture barrier. The rich, luxurious formula melts into your skin without any greasy residue, leaving you with a radiant, healthy-looking complexion that feels refreshed and balanced.
Use niacinamide skincare both morning and night. For ultimate skin restoration, pair Balancing Act with our potent Bakuchiol Serum in your nighttime routine for a revitalized glow by morning.
Resources:
Bissett, D. L., Oblong, J. E., & Berge, C. A. (2005). Niacinamide: A B vitamin that improves aging facial skin appearance. Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.], 31(7 Pt 2), 860–865. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1524-4725.2005.31732
Levin, J., & Momin, S. B. (2010). How much do we really know about our favorite cosmeceutical ingredients?. The Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology, 3(2), 22–41.
