Here’s what to know about looking for a niacinamide product that’s right for you.
Selection
You can find niacinamide in various types of skin-care products, but there’s not enough evidence that brief contact with the skin, such as with face washes or cleansers, leads to meaningful skin differences — so Nazarian recommends sticking to products that are left on the skin and absorbed, such as moisturizers or serums.
Nazarian and Chen both suggest using a product that contains a concentration of no more than 5 percent niacinamide, to minimize the risk of irritation. For most people, this amount should be tolerable. However, certain niacinamide serums contain as much as double that, so always read the label.
Also, take a look at which other active ingredients a niacinamide product contains. Chen explains that you can often find niacinamide paired with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). “AHAs exfoliate dead skin cells that make it easier for niacinamide to effectively penetrate,” she says.
Nazarian advises that other great couplings for niacinamide include hyaluronic acid (both ingredients relieve dryness) and salicylic acid. Salicylic acid treats acne and keeps pores clear, while niacinamide may regulate oil production in skin and reduce inflammation.
Once you’ve decided on a skin-care product containing niacinamide, it’s worth performing a spot test to determine whether your skin agrees with this ingredient. Apply a small amount of the product to a small patch of skin and watch for any adverse reaction. “Generally, someone can determine whether they are sensitive to a product within the first few days of use,” says Nazarian. Do this with any new product, especially if you have sensitive skin and are therefore more prone to an allergic response, she advises.
Storage
Niacinamide doesn’t need to be refrigerated. You can keep it in your medicine cabinet or vanity.