Step by Step: How to use Niacinamide Serum?

Written by: Kaushik Jethva

Last Updated: April 19, 2023

niacinamide serum
Niacinamide Serum

Niacinamide serum is a powerful skincare product that can benefit a wide range of skin type, from sensitive skin to oily skin. This potent form of vitamin B3 offers numerous skin benefits, including improving skin tone, texture, and immunity, while also addressing various skin concerns. In this blog, we’ll explore how to use niacinamide serum in your skincare routine to achieve a healthy, youthful glow.

1 What is Niacinamide?

Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, is a water-soluble vitamin found in green vegetables and other food sources. When applied topically, niacinamide provides numerous skin benefits, including strengthening the skin barrier, reducing inflammation, and boosting collagen production. It is an active ingredient in many skincare products, such as niacinamide toners and oil-based serums, and is often paired with other active ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and salicylic acid.

2 Benefits of Niacinamide Serum

benefits of niacinamide serum
Benefits of Niacinamide Serum

Suitable for all skin types: Niacinamide serum is well-tolerated by all skin types, including sensitive and delicate skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it a calming and soothing product for those with skin irritation or inflammation. It also helps in keeping your skin hydrated for a longer time period.

Helps to improve skin texture and lighten skin tone: Niacinamide helps reduce the appearance of dark spots, improves skin texture, and evens out skin tone, resulting in a brighter overall complexion.

Boosts skin immunity and barrier function: Niacinamide strengthens the skin’s barrier function, helping to protect it from environmental damage and retain moisture.

Controls sebum production: Niacinamide is effective at regulating oil production, making it an ideal ingredient for those with oily skin or excess sebum production.

Enhances collagen production: By stimulating collagen production, niacinamide can help maintain the skin’s elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for healthy skin.

Works well with other ingredients: Niacinamide can be easily combined with other skincare products like vitamin C serum and hyaluronic acid, enhancing their effectiveness.

3 Incorporating Niacinamide Serum into Your Skincare Routine

Step 1: Cleanse your skin

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A young girl cleansing her face

Start your skincare routine by cleansing your face with a mild cleanser, ensuring that you’re not rubbing dirt or dead skin cells into your pores. This step prepares your skin to better absorb the niacinamide serum and other skincare products that you’ll apply.

Step 2: Apply niacinamide toner (optional)

If you prefer to use a niacinamide toner, apply it after cleansing. This step can help further prep your skin for the serum.

Step 3: Apply niacinamide serum

With clean hands, take a few drops of niacinamide serum and rub your palms slightly together to warm up the product. Gently press the serum onto thin skin on your face, focusing on areas of concern. Allow the lightweight serum to absorb fully into your skin before moving on to the next step.

Step 4: Layer other serums and treatments (if needed)

a girl layering serum on face
A girl layering serum on face

You can layer niacinamide with both vitamin C and hyaluronic acid, as well as other active ingredients, such as salicylic acid, to address various skin concerns. Apply the serums in order of their consistency, starting with the lightest and finishing with the heaviest.

Step 5: Apply a moisturizer

a girl applying moisturizer on face
A girl applying moisturizer on face

After applying niacinamide and any other serums, lock in the benefits with a moisturizer. Choose an oil-free or lightweight formula for oily skin and a richer, more emollient option for dry skin.

Step 6: Apply sunscreen (morning routine only)

a girl applying sunscreen on face
A girl applying sunscreen on face

In the morning, complete your skincare routine by applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Sunscreen not only protects your skin from harmful UV rays but also helps prevent dark spots and other signs of aging.

4 Frequency of Use

For most people, using niacinamide serum morning and night is ideal for achieving optimal skin benefits. However, if you experience any adverse reactions, such as skin irritation or redness, try using the serum once a day or every other day. Always consult a medical professional if you have any concerns about incorporating a new product into your skincare routine.

5 Tips for Using Niacinamide Serum Effectively

Patch test before full application: To avoid any allergic reactions, perform a patch test by applying a small amount of the serum on your inner forearm and waiting for 24 hours to see if any irritation occurs.

Be patient with results: While niacinamide can provide immediate calming effects, it may take several weeks of consistent use to see significant improvements in skin tone and texture.

Stay consistent with your skincare routine: For the best results, apply niacinamide serum consistently as part of your morning and night skincare routines.

Store niacinamide products properly: Keep your niacinamide serum and other skincare products in a cool, dark place to maintain their potency and effectiveness.

Combine niacinamide with other beneficial ingredients: Niacinamide works well with ingredients like vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and salicylic acid, so don’t be afraid to layer your serums and treatments to address multiple skin concerns.

Avoid using heavy creams or occlusive products before applying niacinamide: Heavy creams or occlusive products can interfere with the absorption of niacinamide, reducing its effectiveness.

Give your skin time to adapt: If you’re new to using niacinamide or adding it to your existing routine, start with a lower concentration and gradually increase the strength as your skin becomes more accustomed to the ingredient.

6 Wrapping Up

Niacinamide serum is a versatile skincare product that offers numerous benefits for various skin types and concerns. By understanding how to effectively incorporate niacinamide into your skincare routine and following the tips provided, you can achieve healthy, glowing skin with improved tone, texture, and immunity. Always remember to be patient and consistent, and consult a medical professional if you have any concerns about adding a niacinamide product to your skincare regimen.

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About This Article

Kaushik Jethva
Written by: Kaushik Jethva author

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Updated: April 19, 2023
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