Niacinamide , also known as vitamin B3 , is a versatile and highly regarded skincare ingredient in the world of cosmetics. It is renowned for its benefits such as helping to reduce dark spots , regulating sebum production , and strengthening the skin barrier . In addition, niacinamide can be used morning and evening , and is suitable for all skin types , including sensitive and dry skin . However, like any cosmetic active ingredient, it is essential to know which products to avoid combining with this ingredient to preserve its benefits and avoid unwanted effects.
The benefits of niacinamide in a skincare routine
Before exploring incompatibilities, let's recall the impressive properties of niacinamide . This active ingredient plays a key role in a skincare routine , as it helps maintain healthy skin by stimulating the production of ceramides, essential lipids to protect and hydrate the skin. It also acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory , ideal for skin prone to redness or acne.
Niacinamide is known for its multiple benefits:
- It gently exfoliates by removing dead cells .
- It moisturizes dry skin and regulates excess sebum on oily skin.
- It lightens the complexion and reduces dark spots .
- It improves skin elasticity while reducing irritation on sensitive skin .
Thanks to its high tolerance, it is commonly included in day creams , serums or moisturizing products to be applied both morning and evening.
Products to avoid with niacinamide
Despite its many benefits, niacinamide is an ingredient that is sensitive to certain combinations. The two main categories of products to avoid are:
1. Products rich in exfoliating acids:
Acids, such as glycolic acid and salicylic acid , are popular for their ability to exfoliate and treat blemishes. However, their acidic pH can compromise the effectiveness of niacinamide , which works best in a neutral or slightly acidic environment. When used together, there may be a risk of irritation, especially for sensitive skin , as well as a reduction in the benefits of both ingredients.
- What to do? If you want to use both an exfoliating acid and niacinamide in your skincare routine , apply them at different times (for example, use glycolic acid in the evening and niacinamide in the morning) or apply them sequentially, for example, salicylic acid as a cleanser and niacinamide as a serum.
2. Vitamin C in its acid form:
Niacinamide is often poorly combined with vitamin C, particularly in its ascorbic acid form, one of the most unstable forms of vitamin C. Combining these two active ingredients could lead to a degradation of their properties and potentially irritate sensitive skin .
- What to do? If you are using vitamin C to lighten your complexion or treat dark spots , use it alternately: one in the morning and the other in the evening.
How to integrate niacinamide into your skincare routine?
To get the most out of this ingredient without compromising its effectiveness:
- Apply niacinamide to clean skin after cleansing and before a day or night cream .
- Follow a logical order in your skincare routine , avoiding inappropriate combinations like those mentioned above.
- If you have sensitive skin , introduce niacinamide gradually into your routine to minimize the risk of irritation.
In conclusion
Niacinamide is known to be a gentle and effective ingredient that works for all skin types , from dry to oily. However, it's important to know which products to avoid, including exfoliating acids like salicylic acid and glycolic acid , as well as acidic vitamin C. With these precautions in mind, niacinamide can be used safely, both morning and night , for optimal results.
Adopt this precious vitamin B3 in your skincare routine and enjoy its benefits to strengthen the skin barrier , brighten your complexion and improve the overall health of your skin!