Our Not-So-Secret Secret Ingredient (Psst! It’s Niacinamide)

 

Its benefits are multiple and significant. It’s in many of our best-selling products. It’s been extensively studied for years and shown to be one of the most effective ingredients available. But you’ve probably never heard of it. We’re going to let you in on the not-so-secret secret ingredient that is one of our formula faves: niacinamide.

 

This vitamin B3 derivative is a synthesizing factor in more than 40 biochemical reactions, making it a multi-tasking monster of skin enhancement with proven benefits for everything from texture to tone.

 

Our bodies produce niacinamide when we eat foods high in niacin (like liver or mushrooms). The niacin is converted into active niacinamide, which is essential to cellular metabolism. But because niacinamide is also readily absorbed by the skin, it plays a pivotal role in topical skin care.

 

Years of study have shown that topical niacinamide can improve epidermal barrier function, decrease hyperpigmentation, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, calm redness and blotchiness, decrease skin yellowness (sallowness), and improve skin elasticity.

 

Niacinamide is a cofactor for the synthesis of fatty acids and lipids such as ceramides, which are essential to a healthy and hydrated skin barrier.

 

It also reduces sebum production and the appearance of pores, making it an excellent choice for patients with oily skin.

 

It’s not irritating to the skin. In fact, quite the opposite. It’s an anti-inflammatory soother that reduces redness and helps calm rosacea and acne flare-ups.

 

In aging skin, topical application of niacinamide enhances the skin structure, reduces the appearance of wrinkles, and fights age-accelerating free radicals. In multiple studies, niacinamide produced significant improvement in skin’s elasticity. It’s been shown to boost collagen production and speed cellular turnover to improve skin texture and firmness and promote a more youthful appearance.

 

Niacinamide also has serious benefit for treating hyperpigmentation, age spots, and acne scars because it inhibits the transfer of melanosomes (the transporters of pigment) to skin cells to promote a brighter, more even tone.

 

 

Want to add niacinamide to your regimen? Find it in most of our serums, our Daily Repair Pads, Skin Nourishing Toner, and Totaloe Calming and Hydrating Gel.