Vitamin B3 or niacinamide plays a vital role in the healthy functioning of your digestive system, nervous system as well as brain functioning. This vitamin is packed with antioxidants which are super beneficial for the skin. For starters, it helps combat the effects of environmental aggressors on the skin, thereby preventing dull skin and premature ageing.
Its skin benefits don’t stop there, vitamin B3 may not be as popular as vitamin C and A but offers a plethora of skin benefits which is why it is a common ingredient found in a number of skincare products. Here’s everything you should know about this amazing skincare ingredient.
- 1. Strengthens the epidermal barrier
- 2. Reduces signs of ageing
- 3. Corrects pigmentation and uneven skin tone
- 4. Decreases skin sensitivity
1. Strengthens the epidermal barrier
If you want healthy, glowing and youthful skin, it is important that your skin’s epidermal barrier is strong. This prevents external factors like UV rays, dust and pollution from entering into the skin. Vitamin B3 improves the production of the lipid ceramide, which strengthens the epidermal barrier and retains moisture thus keeping the skin soft and supple.
BB picks: Ponds Flawless Radiance Derma + Mattifying Day Cream SPF 15
2. Reduces signs of ageing
As vitamin B3 prevents water loss and retains moisture in the skin, it improves the texture and reduces signs of aging. Regular use of products containing niacinamide can prevent skin problems associated with ageing and take years off your face. Vitamin B3 supplements can also be taken to improve skin tone and texture, however, these shouldn’t be taken without consulting your doctor first.
BB picks: Lakme Youth Infinity Skin Sculpting Day Creme SPF 15 PA ++
3. Corrects pigmentation and uneven skin tone
The harmful UV rays of the sun cause pigmentation and uneven skin tone on the skin. Using skincare products formulated with vitamin B3 or niacinamide can help by reducing the pigment production as well as its transfer into the skin. This leaves you with even-toned and clear skin. Vitamin B3 can also be obtained through your diet. Foods such as green leafy vegetables, chicken, turkey, fish, asparagus and tomatoes are all good sources of Vitamin B3.
BB picks: Dermalogica PowerBright TRx C-12 Pure Bright Serum
4. Decreases skin sensitivity
If redness, blotchiness and skin sensitivity are your skin concerns, vitamin B3 can help address it. As the epidermal barrier is strengthened, the skin’s ability to protect itself from external aggressors improves too. This prevents skin irritation, redness, sensitivity and improves the overall appearance of the skin.
BB picks: Lakme 9 to 5 Naturale Night Crème
Written by Sanya Hamdani on Nov 05, 2020
Sanya Hamdani is a skincare enthusiast and lipstick hoarder, she truly believes no two red lipsticks look exactly alike. With a Master's degree in Communication & Journalism and 5+ years of digital writing experience up her sleeve, Sanya has some of the biggest beauty experts in the country on her speed dial. When she's not swatching products or writing about the latest trends in beauty, you will find her watching F.R.I.E.N.D.S. or cooking up a storm in the kitchen.