Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3, which is used in aesthetic medicine for its benefits to the skin. It is a very versatile compound that offers long-lasting results and has scientific backing.
What is Niacinamide?
Niacinamide, also known as nicotinamide or vitamin B3, is an essential compound in the B-complex group of vitamins. It is a form of niacin, which is an essential nutrient for the proper functioning of the body. Humans obtain it mainly through diet from foods such as meat, fish, nuts, whole grains and green vegetables.
Although known primarily for its role in skin care, niacinamide is an essential vitamin that plays a variety of roles in the body. Contributes to normal energy metabolism, nervous system function and skin health.
It is a water-soluble molecule. When applied topically or incorporated into skin care products, this vitamin works in harmony with the skin’s natural processes to improve its appearance and overall health.
Benefits of niacinamide
Niacinamide is known to be well tolerated by most people, including those with sensitive skin. Its safety profile makes it a versatile choice in aesthetic medicine, as it is less prone to cause irritation compared to some other ingredients.
For use in aesthetic medicine and skin care, it offers a broad spectrum of benefits:
- First, niacinamide acts as a moisturizing agent, helping the skin to retain moisture by strengthening the skin barrier. This means that it reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL), resulting in more hydrated and smoother skin.
- It also stimulates the production of collagen and elastin in the skin, which are two proteins responsible for maintaining the skin’s structure. By increasing the production of these proteins, niacinamide can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
- Niacinamide has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce inflammation and redness associated with acne. It also regulates the production of sebum (oil) in the skin, which can prevent clogged pores and the formation of blackheads.
- Promotes cell renewal by increasing the synthesis of ceramides, which are essential lipids in the skin barrier. This cellular renewal improves skin texture and makes it look smoother and more even.
- Helps reduce melanin production in the skin, which reduces the appearance of dark spots and discolorations. It can also inhibit the transfer of melanin to the cells of the upper epidermis, which helps to even out skin tone.
- Niacinamide improves the skin’s lipid barrier by increasing the synthesis of ceramides and lipids. A strong skin barrier is crucial to protect the skin from environmental damage and maintain its hydration.
- Niacinamide is known to be well tolerated by most people, including those with sensitive skin. Its safety profile makes it a versatile choice in aesthetic medicine, as it is less prone to cause irritation compared to some other ingredients.
Aesthetic medicine applications
Through various studies, niacinamide has been shown to help minimize the risk of irritation prior to invasive procedures such as chemical peels, microdermabrasion or lasers. The compound prepares the skin by improving hydration and strengthening the skin barrier, thereby accelerating recovery.
It can be used in cosmetic treatments to combat acne and to improve the appearance of acne scars.
On the other hand, it is commonly used in procedures to lighten facial blemishes and improve the overall appearance of the skin by reducing wrinkles and improving facial texture.
In general, niacinamide can be effectively combined with other procedures and products in aesthetic medicine.
Commitment to quality
This text on niacinamide has been prepared by professional writers. In addition, we have relied on experts in medicine, engineering and aesthetics as a source of information, as well as specific studies to maintain the quality of what we publish.
At Sisneo Bioscience we are committed to publish truthful and contrasted information. And to update or correct it as soon as new knowledge becomes available.
Among others, we have used the following sources:
- Mª Teresa Alcalde y Alfonso del Pozo. «Nuevos despigmentantes cutáneos (VII). Niacinamida» en Offarm. 2017 Jun 26;7:96-97. https://www.elsevier.es/es-revista-offarm-4-articulo-nuevos-despigmentantes-cutaneos-vii-niacinamida-13108312.
- Bissett DL, Oblong JE, Berge CA. «Niacinamide: A B vitamin that improves aging facial skin appearance» en Dermatol Surg. 2005 Jul;31(7 Pt 2):860-5; discussion 865. doi: 10.1111/j.1524-4725.2005.31732. PMID: 16029679.
