Niacinamide and nicotinic acid are both effective as a vitamin because they can both be converted into each other. The blanket term for both is Vitamin B3.
It is a potent ingredient which has inflammatory effects and reduces redness in acne/rosacea skins.
Niacinamide creates a brighter complexion by:
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an increase in protein synthesis (e.g. keratin) ,
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has a stimulating effect on ceramide synthesis,
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speeds up the differentiation of keratinocytes
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raises intracellular NADP levels.
Topical application of niacinamide has a stabilising effect on the epidermal barrier function so as to reduce trans-epidermal water loss and an improvement in the moisture content of the stratum corneum.
In ageing skin, topical application of niacinamide improves the structure, smooths out wrinkles ad inhibits photodamage with its anti-oxidant properties.
