Niacinamide: What It Does & Who Should Use It
Niacinamide is one of the most versatile, well-tolerated skincare ingredients available today — and unlike many trending ingredients, this one is backed by decades of research.
Whether you’re dealing with acne, redness, dullness, or an impaired skin barrier, niacinamide can help support healthier, stronger, and more balanced skin. At La Reina Aesthetics, it’s one of the ingredients we recommend most often because almost every skin type can benefit from it.
Here’s what niacinamide actually does — and how to know if it’s right for you.
What Is Niacinamide?
Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B3, a water-soluble vitamin essential for healthy skin.
It helps the skin:
repair damage
regulate oil
strengthen the barrier
reduce redness
improve clarity
Because it’s gentle yet effective, niacinamide works well in both simple and advanced skincare routines.
Key Benefits of Niacinamide
1. Strengthens the Skin Barrier
Niacinamide boosts your skin’s natural production of:
ceramides
lipids
fatty acids
These are essential for keeping moisture in and irritants out.
A healthier barrier = calmer, more hydrated skin.
2. Reduces Redness & Inflammation
If your skin gets:
flushed
irritated
sensitive
inflamed
Niacinamide helps calm and soothe the skin by reducing inflammatory responses.
It’s especially helpful for sensitized or reactive skin types.
3. Regulates Oil Production
Niacinamide helps balance the skin’s oil levels, making it great for:
oily skin
acne-prone skin
combination skin
It controls excess sebum without drying the skin out — something many acne products fail to do.
4. Minimizes the Look of Pores (Visually)
Pores cannot physically shrink, but niacinamide helps them appear smaller by:
reducing excess oil
strengthening the skin
improving texture
The result is smoother-looking skin over time.
5. Brightens and Evens Skin Tone
Niacinamide slows down the transfer of pigment to skin cells, helping with:
dark spots
uneven tone
post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) from acne
It’s safe for all skin tones and a great alternative for those who can’t tolerate Vitamin C.
6. Supports Collagen & Smoothness
Long-term use can improve:
fine lines
texture
elasticity
It’s gentle enough to use daily and pairs well with almost all other ingredients.
Who Should Use Niacinamide?
1. Those with Acne or Breakouts
Reduces oil, inflammation, and PIH.
2. Those with Sensitive or Sensitized Skin
Calms irritation and restores the barrier.
3. Those with Dry or Dehydrated Skin
Boosts ceramides and strengthens hydration.
4. Those with Redness or Rosacea
Niacinamide is one of the most well-tolerated calming ingredients.
5. Those with Dark Spots or Uneven Tone
Helps diminish hyperpigmentation gently.
6. Those with Oily or Combination Skin
Balances oil without stripping.
7. Those in Dry Climates (Like Calgary)
Perfect for supporting the skin barrier year-round.
How to Use Niacinamide Correctly
Use once daily if you’re new to it
Apply after cleansing and before moisturizing
Works best at 2–5% concentrations
Avoid high concentrations (10%+) if prone to sensitivity
Pairs well with: hyaluronic acid, ceramides, peptides
Can be used morning or night
Niacinamide is one of the few ingredients that works in almost every routine.
Should You Avoid Niacinamide?
Most people tolerate it well, but avoid high percentages if:
your skin gets easily flushed
you’ve experienced burning from active serums
your routine already includes strong exfoliants
If unsure, start slow — or ask your esthetician for guidance.
Final Thoughts
Niacinamide is a gentle, effective ingredient that supports nearly every skin concern. Whether you’re healing your barrier, managing breakouts, or working toward a brighter complexion, it’s a powerhouse addition to many routines.
If you’re unsure how to incorporate niacinamide or what concentration is right for you, your esthetician can help create a personalized routine based on your unique skin needs.