What is Niacinamide for, anyway? Let's gather and discuss it thoroughly

Implovers, you must be familiar with the term niacinamide. This ingredient is currently a favorite in many skincare products, from serums to moisturizers. But if you're reading this article, you might still be confused about what niacinamide is for, and why many say this ingredient is a must-have in daily routines?

In this article, Lora will discuss in detail about the benefits, how to use, and things to consider so that niacinamide works optimally without making the skin uncomfortable.

What is Niacinamide Actually For?

Niacinamide is a popular active ingredient because of its various benefits, from helping brighten the skin, soothing inflammation from acne, to strengthening the skin barrier. Due to its gentle nature, this ingredient is also relatively flexible for various skin types, including sensitive skin.

However, it's important to note that not all skincare products containing niacinamide are automatically suitable for everyone. Products formulated for oily skin, for example, may not necessarily provide optimal results when used by individuals with sensitive skin. Therefore, recognizing your own skin needs is an important first step before adding niacinamide to your skincare routine.

Identify Skincare Ingredients to Avoid

In addition to niacinamide, skincare products may contain various other ingredients that need to be cautious of. Some ingredients such as high alcohol content, synthetic fragrances, excessive preservatives, and artificial dyes may trigger reactions in more sensitive skin. Implovers also need to be extra careful with products containing harmful metals like mercury, chromium, or lead, which unfortunately still exist in some products without official circulation permits. Make sure the products you use are registered with BPOM for better safety.

On the other hand, active ingredients such as AHA/BHA, Vitamin C, Retinol, and of course niacinamide, have a stronger complexity to address specific skin issues. Therefore, the way they are used needs to be carefully considered so that their benefits can be maximized.

Recommended Way to Use Niacinamide

For optimal results, here is the sequence of using niacinamide that Implovers can apply in their daily routine:

1. Cleanse the face using facial wash or facial foam to remove dirt and residual makeup.
2. Follow up with toner as a double cleansing step and to prepare the skin before moving on to the next step.
3. Apply niacinamide serum evenly to the entire face.
4. Seal with moisturizer after the serum is fully absorbed to maintain moisture.
5. Use sunscreen in the morning as the final step to protect the skin from UV exposure.

If Implovers are looking for a serum containing niacinamide with a formula that supports the above sequence, Implora Luminous Brightening Serum could be a worthwhile choice. This serum contains 10% Niacinamide combined with Kakadu Plum, one of the natural sources of Vitamin C known to be much higher than oranges. This combination works to help brighten the skin, reduce dark spots, and nourish the skin to keep it looking healthy and radiant. Its usage is simple, just apply 2–3 drops thinly and pat evenly, ideally used regularly in the morning and evening.

Things to Consider After Using Niacinamide

If Implovers experience different reactions than expected, such as itching or dullness, there are several possibilities that could be the cause.

1. Skin is Adapting

Results from using niacinamide usually become significant after 4–8 weeks of regular use. During this period, it's advisable for Implovers to simplify their skincare routine and focus on strengthening the skin barrier first. Use products with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides to help the skin adapt.

2. Combination with Inappropriate Active Ingredients

Niacinamide should not be used together with acidic active ingredients like AHA/BHA at the same time, as this combination may cause irritation, redness, or a burning sensation on the skin. If Implovers still want to use both, the solution is simple, separate their usage into morning and evening skincare routines to allow the skin time to adapt between them.

Ensuring Niacinamide Works Without Drying Out the Skin

Regardless of skin type, one thing that should not be overlooked is to continue using a moisturizer to maintain moisture. Some active ingredients including niacinamide have the potential to make the skin feel dry if the skin barrier is not well maintained. So, if Implovers are looking for products containing niacinamide, make sure the formula is also equipped with moisturizing and soothing ingredients, so that the brightening benefits can be felt without sacrificing skin comfort.

Let's start the right niacinamide routine now, and gradually feel the healthier and more radiant skin! If Implovers want to start with a lightweight yet effective formula,  Implora Luminous Brightening Serum could be the perfect companion for daily routines, formulated with 10% Niacinamide and Kakadu Plum to help the skin appear brighter, healthy, and radiant with regular use.

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