Today, we're diving deep into the world of niacinamide, a trending hero in the skincare realm esteemed for its ability to produce radiant, healthy skin. If you're all about self-care and nurturing your skin with the goodness of nature, you're in for a treat! We’re going to dive into all things niacinamide: why it’s so popular in the skincare world, where it comes from and how to identify a naturally sourced version of it, because most skincare products use a synthetic form!
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What's in the blog:
WHAT IS NIACINAMIDE?
First things first, let's unravel the mystery behind niacinamide. Also known as vitamin B3 or nicotinamide, this skincare superstar can be sourced from both natural and synthetic origins. Naturally, it's found in foods like nuts, grains, brown rice, legumes and bananas to name a few. But, in the realm of skincare, it's often synthetically produced in a lab from nylon and other ingredients.
Whilst lab produced niacinamide is promoted has being pure and of high quality, it still is an unnatural form and therefore won't be as well received by our bodies as something of natural and botanical origin. The natural form used in skincare products generally comes from brewer's yeast, however vitamin B3 is also found in many other great natural ingredients, which we will identify a little further on in this blog post.
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WHAT'S SO GREAT ABOUT IT?
Now, onto the exciting part – the benefits! Picture this: smoother texture, minimised pores, reduced redness and a brighter complexion – sounds like a dream, right? Well, niacinamide can make it a reality! Backed by research, this multitasking ingredient has been shown to enhance skin barrier function, regulate oil production, and even fade hyperpigmentation. Whether you're battling acne, dealing with sensitive skin, or simply craving that enviable glow, niacinamide has got your back.
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But wait, there's more! One of the best things about niacinamide is its versatility. You can find it in a variety of skincare products, from serums and moisturizers to toners and even masks. And it's not just about the form – niacinamide plays well with others, meaning you can easily incorporate it into your existing routine without any fuss.
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WHERE DOES IT COME FROM? IS IT NATURAL?
The raw ingredient can be sourced from both natural and synthetic sources. Naturally, niacinamide is found in various food sources, as mentioned earlier, but in the skincare realm, it's often synthesized in laboratories. Here's the scoop on the synthetic version: while synthetic niacinamide is chemically identical to its natural counterpart, there can be concerns regarding the manufacturing process. Some synthetic production methods may involve harsh chemicals and solvents, which could potentially leave behind trace impurities that might not be ideal for sensitive skin types. Not to mention that nylon is used as one of the ingredients it is formed from.
That said, reputable skincare brands rigorously test their products to ensure purity and safety, so rest assured, the synthetic niacinamide you find in most skincare goodies is typically safe for use. However, it isn’t ideal. If you prefer a more natural approach, there are also options available that derive niacinamide from botanical sources. Keep reading for natural sources to look out for...we're getting there :)
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IS IT SUITABLE FOR ALL SKIN TYPES?
Now, onto the nitty-gritty. While niacinamide is generally well-tolerated by most skin types, it's always wise to patch-test new products to rule out any potential sensitivities. People with particularly sensitive skin may end up with some redness after using products with this ingredient. It is also not recommended for anyone that has issues with their gall bladder or has had it removed. Additionally, keep an eye out for concentration levels – most studies suggest that a concentration of 2-5% delivers optimal results without causing irritation.
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WHAT DO I LOOK FOR ON PRODUCT LABELS?
It's finally time to reveal what to look for on product labels to get a natural form of niacinamide or B3. Identifying natural niacinamide on a product label can be a bit tricky since the ingredient itself is typically listed as "niacinamide" or "nicotinamide," regardless of its source. Unlike some other skincare ingredients that might specify their natural origin (such as "organic rosehip oil" or "plant-derived hyaluronic acid"), niacinamide doesn't usually come with such distinctions. Niacinamide might appear under different names like nicotinamide or vitamin B3. So, if you're on the hunt for this powerhouse ingredient, be sure to scan those ingredient lists carefully.
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If you are keen on opting for a more natural version of niacinamide, you can look for products that highlight their use of botanical or plant-based ingredients. These products often advertise their natural sourcing and may mention the extraction process used to obtain niacinamide from natural sources. Additionally, scanning the product description or the brand's website might provide insight into their sourcing and production methods, allowing you to make an informed decision based on your preferences.
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Here is a list of ingredients that are great natural sources of vitamin B3 that are perfect if you have sensitive skin:
almond oil
apricot kernel oil
hazelnut oil
macadamia oil
While it might require a bit of extra detective work, prioritising brands that prioritise transparency and sustainability can help you find skincare products with natural niacinamide that align with your values.
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THE FINAL WORD
So, whilst niacinamide has numerous benefits it can be difficult to identify a product with a naturally sourced option. If it is something you want to incorporate in your skincare routine, it is well worth taking the time to do a little research to find a brand with ingredient transparency to ensure you are getting something that is high quality and natural. Remember, if you have sensitive skin, do a patch test first!
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