Skincare Basics 101: What Is Niacinamide And What Does It Do For Your Skin?

Navigating your way through the dizzying mazes of skincare is tough, we know. With new ingredient names popping up every now and then, it’s a task to keep up. But, there’s one ingredient that has the seal of approval by dermatologists and aestheticians worldwide. It’s niacinamide. This chemistry-lab-sounding ingredient can do so much, it would be unfair to simply put it in one line. Scroll away to see what it is and what it does. 

What is niacinamide?

When we say niacinamide, we’re referring to a topical form of vitamin B3. It is a water-soluble vitamin, meaning it is not naturally found in the body like hyaluronic acid. It can bring about cellular changes that are beautifully exhibited topically. That’s why you’ll always spot this ingredient on so many skincare products! It can be consumed either orally or applied topically in the form of toner, serum, essence, or moisturizer, where it will deliver impeccable results, no matter what your skin concern is. 

So, enough of beating around the bush, let’s get to the benefits already! 

What are the benefits of niacinamide? 

This serum is a sort of a shape shifter, if you may. This is because this ingredient will blend into the skin, and cater to the exact skin issue that you want to target. This makes it super-versatile, where people with literally any skin type and concern can use it without a worry. 

1) Reduces acne 

Niacinamide is an excellent anti-inflammatory wonder, which makes it a messiah for people with acne, redness and rosacea. It is not as hard-hitting like retinoid and salicylic acid, which makes it a go-to for people who have dry and sensitive skin. 

2) Shrinks pores 

Along with looking like skin-caters, large pores form the breeding ground for bacteria to multiply and sebaceous glands to have a greasy-party. Niacinamide can ‘sew’ these pores and considerably reduce their size to put a stopper to these skin woes. With regular use, you will also notice that your skin becomes way less oily as compared to before. 

3) Prevents moisture loss 

Niacinamide is a boon not only for oily skin, but also for dry and dehydrated skin. It is a super-hydrator that prevents moisture loss to keep the skin looking plump. A study on the hydrating benefits of niacinamide came to the conclusion that it is, in fact, a better hydrator than petroleum jelly. Over and above, niacinamide also improves skin’s barrier function. 

4) Anti-ageing miracle 

It is hard to imagine an anti-ageing ingredient as effective as retinol, but niacinamide is not far behind. It boosts collagen in the skin that prevents premature signs of ageing. No expect reduced fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, and discoloration. 

When can you use niacinamide? 

You may use it in your AM as well as your PM skincare routine for maximum results. It is best used in a serum form, and our Birch Please Skin Soothing Clarifying Serum is the absolute right fit! Along with niacinamide, it also contains hyaluronic acid, birch juice, and sea buckthorn that are A-lister ingredients for glowing and smooth skin.

You may also include niacinamide in your routine as a moisturizer, where our Mon Cherry Ultra Light Moisturizing Gel will play its part to give you bouncy and dewy skin with every use. It is packed with brightening ingredients like cherry blossom, grapefruit, and pearl that work in synergy to land you spotless skin. 

If you want a nighttime pampering sesh, then our niacinamide-infused Mama Cica Oil Control Overnight Mask is the best you can get. It has 2% niacinamide, along with cica, Korean ginseng, lotus root, calendula extracts and tamanu oil that slather your skin the TLC it needs!  

What ingredients should you pair and avoid with niacinamide? 

Niacinamide sits well with most products, and in fact, performs even better when complemented with the right ingredients. Here’s what you can combine. 

• To treat dark spots and brightening skin: niacinamide + kojic acid 
• To support overall skin health: niacinamide + hyaluronic acid/peptides/ceramides 

Quench Recommends: Birch Please Skin Soothing Clarifying Serum 

• To even out skin tone: niacinamide + alpha arbutin 
• To add a dewy glow: niacinamide + bakuchiol 

Quench Recommends: Bravocado Intense Brightening Serum 

Niacinamide does not see eye to eye with one particular ingredient. We do not recommend combining niacinamide with vitamin C, as this can oftentimes lead to skin irritation, and damage the barrier. Even though today there are formulations that allow you to combine the two, it is better to be safe than sorry! 

When do you see the results of niacinamide? 

One might start noticing a difference within the first two weeks of regular application as well. Although, in most cases it might take up to four to five weeks to show substantial results. Niacinamide teaches you to be patient, which is a must-have for skincare. 

So, give this under-rated ingredient a try, and then thank us later!