Niacinamide- Anti-aging beginner's molecule.

Niacinamide is required for the function of fats and sugars in the body and to maintain healthy cells. Niacin is converted to niacinamide when it is taken in amounts greater than what is needed by the body.

Niacinamide is a type of vitamin B3, one of eight B vitamins that support many aspects of your health. Your body makes niacinamide when you have too much niacin in your body. Your body can also change an amino acid called tryptophan into niacinamide.

Niacinamide occurs in trace amounts mainly in meat, fish, nuts, and mushrooms, as well as to a lesser extent in some vegetables.

It is commonly added to cereals and other foods. Many multivitamins contain 20–30mg of vitamin B3 and it is also available in higher doses.

There is tentative evidence for a potential role of niacinamide in treating acne, rosacea, autoimmune blistering disorders, ageing skin, and atopic dermatitis. Niacinamide has been investigated for many additional disorders, nonmelanoma skin cancers. Niacinamide may be beneficial in treating psoriasis.

Niacinamide has minimal side effects. Normal doses are safe during pregnancy. The tolerable upper limit of vitamin B3 is 35 mg per day.

The components of niacinamide are restorative. They help restore cellular energy of the skin's cells and repair damaged DNA.

The nutrient also reduces the immunosuppressive effects of the Sun's UV rays, fighting off external and internal stressors that contribute to the degeneration of your skin and are a cause premature aging.

The anti-inflammatory properties in this nutrient make it an ideal treatment for skin inflammation.‌

In one study in the International Journal of Dermatology, a topical mixture of 4% of the nutrient was as effective as 1% clindamycin in acne treatment. Clindamycin is used in the treatment of various bacterial infections.

Topical niacinamide also inhibits the production of oil, which is a benefit to people dealing with acne. The element is also non-irritating compared to most other acne treatments on the market. It makes for an attractive treatment option for people with sensitive or dry skin.

When taken as an oral supplement, studies show that niacinamide reduces inflammation associated with mild to moderate acne. It works effectively where oral antibiotics fail or are not an option. In severe cases of the condition, systemic steroids or retinoids may be better treatment options, not vitamins. Limited evidence also shows that topical niacinamide works to repair the function of the outer protective skin layer.

Niacinamide can also help with fine lines, pigmentation, and wrinkles. A few studies published a couple of years ago show significant improvements in fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. That study needs further research as another split-face study seems to suggest that the nutrient is ineffective. In treating melasma, which are patches of discoloration, for example, 4% hydroquinone was found more effective than 4% niacinamide.

In supplements, niacinamide might be listed on the label in niacin equivalents (NE). 1 mg of niacinamide is the same as 1 mg NE. Niacinamide is found in many vitamin B complex supplements with other B vitamins. It's also used in many topical creams and gels.

The amount that should be consumed on a daily basis is called the recommended dietary allowance (RDA). In males, the RDA is 16 mg NE. In females, the RDA is 14 mg NE. While pregnant, the RDA is 18 mg NE. While breast-feeding, the RDA is 17 mg NE. In children, the RDA depends on age.

Top benefits:

Boost hydration.

Calm redness.

May reduce the appearance of pores.

Possibly protect against skin cancer.

Treat dark spots.

Reduce wrinkles and fine lines.

To maximize its benefits, apply niacinamide after applying a moisturizer. You can also combine niacinamide serum with your moisturizer and apply them together to your face and neck.

It’s often helpful to pair niacinamide with other skin care products to maximize its benefits. These include anti-aging formulas with antioxidant vitamin C or moisturizers with ceramides (fat molecules), as well as:

• Glycolic acid.

• Hyaluronic acid.

• Retinol.

• Supplements, such as copper, folic acid and zinc.

In my personal experience, I have used a few brands like Minimalist/ Dot & Key/ Dermaco and have achieved great results, I use it twice a day post face cleaning in a AM/PM routine before moisturizer. I have been using it since 5 years now, skin feels great. I use it alternately with salicylic acid as I have an Oily T-zone.

Reference: Cleveland Clinic/ WebMD / Wiki / Mayo clinic