*Sponsored post: Dermastore®*
Niacinamide has quickly risen to star status in the skincare world, celebrated for its impressive versatility and effectiveness. In this interview, we speak with Dr Ian Webster, dermatologist and co-founder of Dermastore®, to understand why niacinamide is gaining so much attention. Learn more about its role and how it might benefit your skin.
1. Niacinamide 101: Can you start by telling us what niacinamide is and how it differs from other forms of Vitamin B3?
Niacinamide, also called Nicotinamide, is a form of Vitamin B3. Unlike another form of Vitamin B3 called Nicotinic Acid, which can cause skin flushing (redness and warmth) because it dilates blood vessels, Niacinamide doesn’t cause this effect.
2. Skincare superstar: Why has niacinamide become such a buzzword in the skincare industry recently? What makes it stand out?
Niacinamide is a multi-tasking ingredient with lots of proven benefits for the skin. It helps with various skin issues like acne, rosacea and eczema, making it a go-to ingredient in many skincare products.
3. Skincare health benefits: What are the primary benefits of niacinamide for overall skin health?
Niacinamide offers many benefits for the skin, including:
- Acting as an antioxidant
- Strengthening the skin’s barrier
- Reducing dark spots and hyperpigmentation
- Smoothing fine lines and wrinkles
- Decreasing redness and blotchiness
- Reducing yellowing of the skin (sallowness)
- Improving skin elasticity
4. Anti-ageing agent: How does niacinamide contribute to anti-ageing? Can you explain its role in reducing fine lines and wrinkles?
Niacinamide helps the skin regenerate by boosting the production of fibroblasts and collagen. It also reduces oxidative stress and inflammation, especially in skin exposed to the sun and pollution, which helps to minimise fine lines and wrinkles.
5. Complexion correction: Can niacinamide help with uneven skin tone and pigmentation issues? How effective is it in achieving a brighter complexion?
Niacinamide can help even out skin tone and reduce pigmentation by slowing the transfer of pigment cells from melanocytes to skin cells. This action distinguishes it from other lightening agents that directly inhibit pigment production.
6. Moisture magnet: We’ve heard that niacinamide can improve the skin’s barrier function. How does it help in retaining moisture and preventing dryness?
Niacinamide boosts the production of ceramides and other lipids in the skin, which help lock in moisture. It also promotes the development of a thicker outer skin layer, which enhances the skin’s ability to stay hydrated.
7. Blemish Buster: Is niacinamide beneficial for acne-prone skin? How does it work to reduce inflammation and prevent breakouts?
Niacinamide reduces the amount of oil the skin produces and has anti-inflammatory properties. It lowers the production of inflammatory molecules in the skin, helping to prevent breakouts and soothe existing acne.
8. Sensitive skin saviour: For those with sensitive skin, is niacinamide a safe ingredient? What makes it suitable for all skin types?
Niacinamide is generally safe for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It’s well-tolerated and can help improve the skin barrier, making it less prone to irritation.
9. Incorporating Niacinamide: What are the best ways to incorporate niacinamide into a daily skincare routine? What products should and shouldn’t you mix it with? Are there any products you recommend from Dermastore®?
You can easily add niacinamide to your skincare routine by using serums, moisturisers, or creams that contain it. It pairs well with most ingredients, and it’s advised to apply formulas containing niacinamide first to help protect the skin.
- PCA Skin Pigment Bar® – Cleanser
- Huxley Glow Awakening Cream – Moisturiser
- La Roche-Posay Anthelios Age Correct SPF 50 – Sunscreen
- Beaut™ Sunny Skin – Antioxidant Serum
- MartiDerm SHOTS Retinol Renew – Retinol
10. Okay, secret question number 10… Can you share any surprising or lesser-known facts about niacinamide that our readers would find interesting?
Niacinamide is an essential water-soluble vitamin that is not stored in the body. It is needed for energy production in cells and also plays an important role in DNA repair. Niacinamide / Nicotinamide taken orally at a dosage of 1 gram a day has been shown to significantly reduce the incidence of precancerous skin lesions (actinic keratosis) and non-melanoma skin cancer.
As part of my work at Dermastore®, I’m actively involved in new product development and frequently consult with the skincare industry on creating innovative products. I’m often called upon to critically analyse new formulations. One of the niche products I’ve developed specifically for Dermastore® is Nicotinamide 500mg capsules, designed to help prevent and reduce pre-cancerous lesions as well as non-melanoma skin cancers.
Conclusion
So there you have it, a comprehensive look at niacinamide from one of the leading voices in dermatology, Dr Ian Webster. Whether you’re battling blemishes, aiming for an even skin tone, or just seeking a healthier complexion, niacinamide might just be the ingredient you’ve been searching for.
Dermatologist, MB ChB (UCT) FF DERM (SA)
Dr Ian Webster is a Specialist Dermatologist who has been in private practice in Somerset West, Cape Town, for the past 30 years. He co-founded Dermastore®, the first online store in South Africa selling cosmeceuticals: www.dermastore.co.za
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