Niacinamide: The Secret to Smoother, More Even and Radiant Skin

Skin Care

7 min.

Discover what it does, its benefits, and how to incorporate this active ingredient into your skincare routine.

Niacinamide: The Secret to Smoother, More Even and Radiant Skin

Niacinamide is one of the most sought-after ingredients in the skincare world today. Also known as vitamin B3, this active ingredient has become a staple in serums, moisturisers, toners and other facial care products thanks to its versatility and ability to address different skin concerns.

But, after all, what is niacinamide used for? This ingredient can help improve the appearance of oily skin, minimise the appearance of pores, contribute to a more even complexion and strengthen the skin barrier. It is also an interesting option for those looking for a simple yet effective skincare routine.

One of the main advantages of niacinamide is precisely its versatility. It can be used by different skin types, including oily, combination, dry or sensitive skin, depending on the product's formulation and concentration. In addition, it can be combined with several other skincare ingredients, making it easy to incorporate into a daily routine.

In this guide, we will explain the benefits of niacinamide for the skin, how to use this active ingredient correctly, which products you can look for and how to combine it with other ingredients. If you are considering introducing niacinamide into your facial skincare routine, keep reading and discover how to make the most of this ingredient.

What is niacinamide used for on the skin?

Niacinamide is known for its multifunctional action and is used in products designed to address different skin concerns. One of its main benefits is supporting the skin barrier, helping the skin maintain a healthy and balanced appearance.

This ingredient is also highly sought after by people with oily or blemish-prone skin, as it can help improve the appearance of excess oil and visible pores. For those looking for a more even complexion, niacinamide can also help improve the appearance of differences in skin tone and post-blemish marks.

The main benefits of niacinamide include:

  • Helps strengthen the skin's natural barrier;
  • Contributes to a more even-looking complexion;
  • Helps control the appearance of excess oil;
  • May visibly reduce the appearance of pores;
  • Contributes to smoother and more radiant-looking skin;
  • May help improve the appearance of marks and uneven skin tone.

For those just starting their skincare journey, niacinamide can be a good choice precisely because it is such a versatile active ingredient. The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, for example, has become one of the best-known serums for those looking for targeted care for oily skin and blemishes.

 

How to incorporate niacinamide into your skincare routine?

Adding niacinamide to your skincare routine is simple. The key is to choose a product suited to your skin type and needs and use it consistently.

A basic routine can start with facial cleansing, followed by a niacinamide serum, moisturiser and, during the day, sunscreen. The serum should be applied after cleansing and before richer products.

In the morning, you can follow this sequence:

1. Cleanse → 2. Niacinamide serum → 3. Moisturiser → 4. Sunscreen.

At night, you can repeat the routine, removing sunscreen from the sequence and adding other treatments if they are suitable for your skin.

There are different niacinamide concentrations available on the market. A higher concentration does not necessarily mean better results for everyone. If you have sensitive skin or are just starting to use this active ingredient, it may be worth initially choosing a gentler formula.

Products to consider include serums from brands such as The Ordinary, La Roche-Posay and CeraVe, depending on your skin's specific needs and the composition of each formula.

 

Niacinamide: which ingredients can it be combined with?

One of the advantages of niacinamide is that it can easily be incorporated into a routine that includes other skincare ingredients. It can be combined with hydrating actives, such as hyaluronic acid, helping to create a routine focused on hydration and skin comfort.

It can also be used in routines that include antioxidants, such as vitamin C, although it is important to consider individual tolerance and the formulation of the products. To simplify your routine, you can opt for products that already combine several ingredients in a single formula.

Niacinamide can also be found in products designed for blemish-prone skin. In these cases, it is important not to overload the skin with too many active ingredients at the same time.

Some examples of ingredients that can feature in a routine with niacinamide include:

  • Hyaluronic acid: for a routine focused on hydration;
  • Ceramides: to help care for the skin barrier;
  • Salicylic acid: frequently used in products designed for oily and blemish-prone skin;
  • Vitamin C: an antioxidant widely used in skincare focused on radiance and an even complexion;
  • Retinol: used in routines targeting signs of ageing and skin texture.

Products such as CeraVe Facial Moisturising Lotion, formulas from La Roche-Posay and serums from The Ordinary can complement a facial skincare routine, depending on your skin's needs.

 

Who can use niacinamide and what precautions should be taken?

Niacinamide is a highly versatile ingredient and can be used by different skin types. Oily skin, combination skin, dry skin and even sensitive skin can benefit from products containing this active ingredient, provided the formula is suited to individual needs.

However, using more products and higher concentrations does not necessarily mean having a better routine. If you are just starting out, introduce the product gradually and observe how your skin reacts. Avoid introducing several new active ingredients at the same time, as it will be more difficult to determine which one may be causing any irritation.

Another essential point is not to forget the sunscreen. Even when your routine includes ingredients designed to improve the appearance of skin tone or marks, sun protection remains essential during the day.

For a simple routine, you can start with three essential steps: cleansing, moisturising and sun protection, and later add a niacinamide serum. Products such as The Ordinary Niacinamide 5% Face And Body Emulsion, La Roche-Posay Mela B3 Serum or other niacinamide formulas may be options to consider depending on the goal of your routine.

If your skin develops persistent irritation, discomfort or an unexpected reaction, discontinue use of the product and seek advice from a dermatologist or healthcare professional.

 

Niacinamide is mainly used to help care for the skin barrier and improve the appearance of excess oil, pores and skin tone uniformity.

In general, it can be part of a daily routine, provided the skin tolerates the product and the formula is suited to its needs.

Yes. It is widely used in products designed for oily or combination skin, particularly in formulas that aim to improve the appearance of excess oil and pores.

Yes. These ingredients are frequently used in the same routine and can complement each other in a routine focused on hydration and skin comfort.

It may help improve the visible appearance of pores, especially when incorporated into a suitable routine for controlling excess oil and maintaining balanced skin.

There is no ideal concentration for everyone. The choice should take into account your skin type, tolerance and the other ingredients present in the formula.

 

Niacinamide is undoubtedly one of the most versatile active ingredients for anyone looking to build a simple, complete skincare routine tailored to their skin's needs. From helping care for the skin barrier to contributing to a more even and balanced appearance, this ingredient can be an excellent addition to your daily skincare routine.

The most important thing is to choose suitable products, introduce active ingredients gradually and maintain a consistent routine. At Loja Glamourosa, you can find different skincare options from recognised brands, allowing you to choose products according to your skin type and goals.