We’ve talked about it once before, and we’re here to talk about it again. Keep reading to learn more about niacinamide, the active ingredient found in our Multitasker Night Serum.

What is niacinamide?

Vitamin B3, or niacinamide (pronounced nie-uh-sin-uh-mide), is the most versatile vitamin for the skin—and possibly the most tolerated by all skin types. Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, has been used in dermatology to improve skin health for years. It’s undergone clinical testing and established itself for being useful when applied topically—so it’s proven!

What are the benefits of niacinamide?

1. Improves Damage from Sun & Pollution Exposure

Niacinamide improves and moisturizes your skin barrier that’s been damaged by sun and pollution exposure. It does this by decreasing inflammation and irritation—two of the major culprits responsible for breaking down your barrier, leading to dull, unhealthy looking skin.

2. Keeps Skin Naturally Hydrated

Vitamin B3 helps your skin naturally produce ceramides, or fat molecules, ergo keeping it moist and plump. According to the British Journal of Dermatology, increasing ceramides can also prevent water loss. In short, ceramides ensure your skin is almost always hydrated.

3. Improves Texture & Tone

After performing a small study of 50 women, The International Journal of Cosmetic Science found that those who used 5% niacinamide twice a day experienced an improved appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, as well as a decrease in the yellowing of their skin.

4. Decreases Hyperpigmentation & Skin Discoloration

The British Journal of Dermatology found that applying 5% Niacinamide twice a day for four weeks improved hyperpigmentation—aka, skin discoloration and uneven tone.

5. Improves Acne & Blemishes

The Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy found that niacinamide improved acne by decreasing sebum production after 6 weeks. The International Journal of Dermatology and Journal of Research in Medical Sciences found that topical application of niacinamide was just as effective in fighting acne as prescription strength Clindamycin antibiotic gel.

How do I incorporate niacinamide into my skincare routine?

Both creams and serums containing niacinamide have the potential to benefit your complexion—however, if given a choice, a serum is your best bet. Niacinamide can penetrate your pores better with a water-soluble serum. It’s tolerable enough to use twice a day, but if you choose to apply it only once, opt for nighttime. This way, the serum has a chance to sit untouched on the skin for a longer period of time with no interference from sun, pollution, make-up or sunscreen.

Shop The Multitasker Night Serum

At Otto Skin Goods, we believe 7% is the perfect percentage of niacinamide—it’s incredibly effective without the chance of irritation. Our night serum also contains a fruit acid complex to lightly exfoliate dead skin from the top layer of your skin, allowing the niacinamide to penetrate more deeply. Combined with licorice root and bearberry extract, these natural ingredients help fight hyperpigmentation alongside calming and inflammatory-reducing vitamin B3.