YOUR KIEHL'S GUIDE

Niacinamide, also known as nicotinamide, is a water-soluble form of vitamin B3. It is present in various grains, meats, and dairy products and is responsible for helping the body convert food into energy. As a skincare ingredient, niacinamide is used extensively in anti-aging and anti-acne formulations. When used topically, niacinamide helps strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier, which helps protect the skin against damaging external stressors, such as pollution, UV exposure, harsh ingredients, and bacteria. It also increases the skin’s antioxidant capacity, making it more able to resist damage or irritation caused by these environmental stressors.

The benefits of niacinamide are extensive, particularly for those with blemish-prone or mature skin. Studies show that niacinamide can help improve the function of the skin barrier and protect the skin against external stressors like pollution. Some research also suggests it can help reduce the appearance of age-related concerns, like wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. Below, discover some of the primary benefits of niacinamide products for your skin.

In anti-acne formulations, niacinamide helps reduce the production of sebum, your skin’s natural oil. Too much sebum production can clog pores and lead to blemishes, like blackheads. By helping to regulate the production of sebum, niacinamide helps keep breakouts at bay. Its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties also make it a useful weapon against inflammatory acne. Since it’s gentle on the skin and doesn’t cause irritation, it’s an especially useful acne treatment for those with sensitive skin as well.

Various studies have found that niacinamide can help minimize several types of discoloration, including age-related hyperpigmentation (like age spots), redness, and yellowing of the skin. This is likely related to the vitamin’s ability to penetrate and strengthen the skin barrier. Much of age-related skin discoloration is linked to oxidative stress. As niacinamide boosts the skin’s antioxidant capacity and strengthens the skin barrier’s response to environmental stressors, it helps minimize the development of age-related discoloration, promoting a clearer, more even appearance.