BEAUTY
Myths About Niacinamide You Should Stop Believing
By AISHA WILLIAMS
Only For Aging
Not only does niacinamide help with aging, but it can help to reduce hyperpigmentation and inflammation, which are often factors in many skin conditions. It has a 75% efficacy rate in the treatment of acne and can also help improve the skin’s barrier function by increasing ceramide production, which helps to prevent moisture loss and protect against external stressors.
Can’t Penetrate The Skin
A common misconception about topical skincare products like niacinamide is that they only deal with surface-level skin issues. However, not only can niacinamide penetrate the outermost layer of skin, but it reaches somewhat into the second layer where it gets to work on helping to improve overall skin quality.
Makes Your Skin Breakout
In most cases, niacinamide is generally well-tolerated by most skin types and is considered a non-irritating and safe ingredient. So, if you do experience any breakouts or irritation with the product, it could be a sign of an allergic reaction or that you’re using a concentration that’s too high — either way, talk to a dermatologist.
Not Well-Researched
There have been two reviews of niacinamide, one in 2017 and another in 2010, which highlight that not only does the product have low or non-existent side effects and can lead to a significant reduction in acne, but it is also one of the most scientifically-backed skincare ingredients. Neither note any significant concerns about its use.
Can Cause Dry Skin
Research published in the International Journal of Dermatology concluded that not only is it unlikely to cause dry skin, but it may also cure it. It plays an active role in hydrating the skin and supports and maintains the production of natural moisturizing factors (NMFs) that are naturally present in the skin to help attract and retain moisture.