A star ingredient in anti-aging beauty products, niacinamide, or vitamin B3, very rarely causes side effects. This active ingredient is suitable for all skin types, even sensitive skin. Although skin reactions (redness, irritation) can occur, these are most often linked to poor product formulation or excessive use. Follow Nooance-Paris' beauty tips to safely adopt niacinamide and visibly transform your skin.
True or False: The Possible Dangers of Niacinamide
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Common myth |
The Nooance answer (according to scientific studies) |
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"Niacinamide burns the skin" |
False. Irritation can occur if the concentration is too high to begin with or if the formula is of poor quality. |
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"It cannot be mixed." |
False. It is compatible with most active ingredients, including retinol and hyaluronic acid, when properly formulated. |
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"It causes acne." |
Rare. An initial "purge" is possible, but the long-term effect is sebum regulation and a reduction in blemishes. |
Niacinamide and Niacin: What’s the difference?
When discussing the dangers of cosmetic active ingredients, we hear a lot about Niacin (or Nicotinic Acid). This is a different form of vitamin B3, sometimes used as a dietary supplement. It often causes redness and overheating, known as "Niacin Flush," due to its specific chemical composition. Nicotinic acid is often mistakenly confused with Niacinamide (or Nicotinamide).
On the contrary, Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 used in cosmetics that is well tolerated by all skin types: discover all the benefits of niacinamide . If it causes unwanted side effects, these are generally due to improper use of the active ingredient.
Causes of irritation with niacinamide: how to avoid them?
Cause #1: Too high a dosage
Introduce vitamin B3 gradually, adjusting the concentration to ensure good skin tolerance. Skincare products containing 2 to 5% niacinamide are well tolerated by all skin types.
Starting with 10% niacinamide, skin may react more quickly, especially if it's not used to it. Skincare products containing 20% niacinamide are generally reserved for exceptional uses. Therefore, it's essential to choose the concentration best suited to your needs.
Cause #2: Poor formulation
Low-cost cosmetic products sometimes hide poor formulation: when niacinamide is exposed to too low a pH (below 4), it can convert to nicotinic acid and cause irritation.
Well-formulated niacinamide skincare products maintain a slightly acidic pH (between 5 and 5.5), which limits the risk of sensitization and ensures better compatibility with active ingredients other than nicotinic acid.
Cause #3: Too frequent use
Introducing niacinamide into your beauty routine should be done gently: start by applying it every third day. Then, gradually increase the frequency of use: every other day, then daily to achieve visible, long-term before/after results .
What to do in case of a skin reaction?
- Step 1 : Stop using immediately at the first signs of allergic reactions: redness, tingling, itching.
- Step 2 : Soothe the skin for a few days using only a gentle cleanser and moisturizer with Centella Asiatica, Panthenol or Ceramides.
- Step 3 : Identify the cause of your irritations and test again, following a few precautions: low concentration, use every third day, choice of suitable care.
How to include vitamin B3 in your skincare routine?
For a powerful anti-aging action
You're probably familiar with retinol, or vitamin A, for its anti-aging properties, which can sometimes be irritating. But did you know that by combining niacinamide and retinol, you can minimize the risk of irritation?
Niacinamide, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and restorative properties, helps strengthen the skin barrier and reduce these unwanted effects, making retinol more tolerable.
With Nooance-Paris Retinol Night Anti-Aging Treatment , combine the effectiveness of 1% pure retinol and 5% niacinamide for rejuvenated, luminous skin.
For deep hydration
Niacinamide and hyaluronic acid are the ideal combination for hydrated and strengthened skin. Hyaluronic acid boosts hydration by retaining water, while niacinamide protects the skin barrier to keep it fresh. Together, they provide comfort, suppleness, and soothing, even for sensitive skin.
To brighten the complexion and promote radiance
The combination of niacinamide and vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) has long been controversial. But today, studies confirm the effectiveness of these two active ingredients in synergy for:
- improve skin radiance
- reduce pigment spots
- provide powerful antioxidant protection with vitamin C
Niacinamide: What are the dangers for the skin? (FAQ)
Is niacinamide not recommended for sensitive skin?
On the contrary, when properly formulated, it soothes and strengthens the skin barrier. Sensitive skin, however, may react if the skincare product contains other irritating active ingredients: alcohol, perfume, acids.
Can I use it with a LED face mask?
Yes, it is an excellent combination to soothe and enhance the results of the LED face mask . The Nooance-Paris Radiance Light+ Mist Serum is particularly suitable for boosting the results of light therapy thanks to its unique formulation of photoreceptor active ingredients: niacinamide, regenerating bi-peptide and polyglutamic acid.
At what percentage is niacinamide effective?
Even at 2-5% niacinamide concentration, the effects are visible on the skin, particularly to improve skin tone evenness and strengthen the skin barrier . A higher concentration (10-20%) will be more effective on pores and dark spots.
Is there any danger in using niacinamide every day?
No, by following our gradual introduction protocol and selecting good quality cosmetic products, niacinamide is safe for the skin in a daily beauty routine.
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