What it is
Niacinamide (also called nicotinamide) is a water-soluble form of Vitamin B3.
What it does
Niacinamide increases ceramide, free fatty acid and collagen production in the skin and stimulates micro-circulation in the dermis. It reduces the appearance of wrinkles, sallowness and improves elasticity.
One study showed that niacinamide is more effective than vaseline (petrolatum) at reducing water loss and increasing the hydration levels of skin. For these reasons, it may help alleviate rosacea.
It reduces flaking and restores suppleness, thus improving the appearance of dry and damaged skin. In addition, it also improves the appearances of hair by increasing body and sheen as well as the texture of damaged hair.
Some studies on the anti-acne properties of this ingredient showed that it helps reducing the inflammation without inducing bacterial resistance.
Niacinamide also decreases skin discoloration by inhibiting the transfer of melanosomes (organelles that contain melanin in cells) to the skin cells, which stops irregular pigmentation from forming.
Some studies have also demonstrated that niacinamide may have anti-tumor properties.
Side effects
Sirtuins, a group of enzymes that regulates the activity of some genes responsible for metabolism, cell defense and other functions, are inhibited by niacinamide. Therefore, products that contain niacinamide shouldn’t be used with products that contan sirtuins.
It is a mild eye irritant.
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Some Olay creams have niacinamide. The Olay Definity cream I’m using is supposed to have a high level of that. In the daytime, my face does look very good after using it as a night cream.
Olay’s Total Effects, Definity, and Regenerist lines all have this ingredient. I tried lots of moisturizers from different brands and Olay’s creams are definitely some of the best on the market. I think this ingredient is part of the reason why they work so well. Niacinamide is an amazing ingredients and anyone should try and fit it into their skincare regimen if they can imo.
The Regenerist serum has this ingredient. It’s pretty good, and it’s worked for me
I’m glad it works for you. Lots of Olay products contain this ingredients and they have never disappointed me.
Olay Complete Ageless Skin Renewing UV Lotion SPF 20 has this ingredient
if you go to cosmeticscop.com and click best & worst products of the month October this is in the best section and she also includes her review!………………..
http://www.cosmeticscop.com/best-worst-products-october-2009-olay-complete-ageless-renewing-uv-lotion-spf-20.aspx
Thanks for the link Wendy, it sounds really good. Niacinamide can be found in many Olay products which is one of the reason why I love their skincare line.