Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, has been known for its remarkable skincare benefits. The niacinamide serum’s easily absorbable formula is formulated to deliver concentrated doses of niacinamide directly to the skin, unlocking a multitude of skin-loving benefits.

The serum is also celebrated for its capacity to enhance skin barrier function, resulting in a smoother, more supple complexion. Dr Prakriti Gyawali, a consultant Dermatologist and Aesthetic expert at Swasti Laser & Skin Care provides further insights about the product.

What is niacinamide and how does it benefit the skin?

Niacinamide is a type of vitamin B3 that dissolves in water and is found in many skincare products. It was first studied in the 1970s, and since then, its use in cosmetics has been widely explored. It is a low-molecular-weight vitamin and a precursor to important coenzymes called NADH and NADPH, which are involved in over 40 biochemical reactions.

If used daily in skincare routines, niacinamide can help skin look healthy, hydrated, smooth, and even-toned. Since it is well tolerated and safe, it is now present in many skincare products, such as cleansers, moisturisers, serums, eye creams, and sunscreens.

Are there specific skin concerns or conditions that niacinamide serum is particularly effective for?

It can tackle various skin issues. Firstly, it’s been found to alleviate dry, itchy skin, providing much-needed relief and hydration. Moreover, niacinamide is known for its anti-ageing properties, aiding in reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, red blotchy patches, hyperpigmented spots and sallowness, promoting a more youthful complexion.

Additionally, niacinamide exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects on the skin, which help in calming irritation and protecting against environmental damage. Its bioavailability ensures that it can penetrate the skin effectively, offering benefits such as relieving itchiness, combating microbial activity, providing photoprotection against harmful UV rays, regulating sebum production, and lightening dark spots or hyperpigmentation.

How does niacinamide serum help with issues like acne, hyperpigmentation, or ageing?

It helps in reducing fine lines and wrinkles by boosting collagen synthesis and keratinocyte proliferation, which makes the skin look younger. Additionally, niacinamide increases ceramide production, lipids, and cholesterol in the skin, strengthening the skin barrier and improving hydration, leading to a more hydrated and youthful appearance.

Studies have shown that applying 4-5% niacinamide to the face significantly improves skin quality, including the reduction of lines, wrinkles, redness, hyperpigmentation, and sallowness. It also enhances skin elasticity.

Moreover, niacinamide possesses anti-inflammatory properties, meaning it can reduce acne redness and excess oil production, thus minimising enlarged pores. It achieves this by inhibiting histamine release and cytokine-mediated induction of nitric oxide synthase, which decreases inflammation and acne severity.

Furthermore, niacinamide is effective in reducing hyperpigmentation and increasing skin lightness by inhibiting the transfer of melanosomes from melanocytes to keratinocytes, an important pathway in hyperpigmentation and melasma. Its mechanism of action includes reducing melanosome transfer, providing photoprotection, anti-inflammatory properties, and anti-ageing effects, such as diminishing sun damage.

Are there any potential side effects or risks associated with using niacinamide serum?

Most people don’t have any issues using niacinamide in their skincare routine. They apply it without experiencing any problems. However, a small number of individuals with susceptible skin may notice some mild discomfort when they first start using niacinamide. This discomfort can manifest as a slight burning sensation, redness, or irritation after applying a product containing niacinamide.

The good news is that these side effects tend to be temporary and often diminish over time as the skin adjusts to the ingredients. The skin needs a little time to get used to the niacinamide, but once it does, the discomfort usually fades away.

Overall, niacinamide is considered safe for topical use on the skin, and the likelihood of experiencing any significant side effects is low. However, if you do have concerns or experience persistent irritation, it’s always a good idea to consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional for personalised advice.

Which brand of this serum would you prefer for Nepali customers?

Two popular niacinamide skincare products suitable for Nepali skin are Kleida and Medfe. These brands offer niacinamide-based skincare solutions. Both products are designed to reduce fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and acne while being suitable for Nepalese skin's unique characteristics.