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I started using a niacinamide serum for oily skin and I can't go back.
If you have oily skin, you know the struggle. That greasy, filthy look is not good. It takes away from your carefully put together makeup look. People with combination skin like me complicate things even more. That is, if your skin is oily and dry. Blotting paper removes oil, but it also removes makeup underneath. Setting powders are effective, but combination or dry skin may look dry and flaky.
After these oil management attempts failed, I did a little research into the world of skin care and came across niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3. Now that I use niacinamide serum daily, oily skin is no longer a problem. In my research, I also discovered that niacinamide has many other skin care benefits. This is a true powerhouse of an ingredient worth incorporating into your skin care routine.
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What are the benefits of niacinamide?
- Niacinamide helps regulate and minimize oiliness by inhibiting enzymes involved in sebum (oil) production.
- Niacinamide works wonders for acne-prone skin. In addition to controlling excess oil that causes clogged pores, its anti-inflammatory properties promote healing. Niacinamide also improves skin tone and texture and minimizes the appearance of acne scars.
- Niacinamide breaks down melanin, which is associated with hyperpigmentation caused by things like sun damage, and prevents future discoloration.
- Niacinamide is a water-soluble vitamin. Strengthens the skin's moisture barrier and moisturizes the skin.
- Niacinamide stimulates collagen production. As we age, our bodies produce less collagen, causing fine lines and wrinkles. Niacinamide fights signs of aging by increasing collagen production.
- Niacinamide has antioxidant properties that protect against free radicals (unstable atoms that can damage the skin).
Although niacinamide contains many benefits on its own, many commercially available serums contain other ingredients that enhance its effectiveness.
Results obtained from Kiehl's Niacinamide Serum
I started applying Kiehl's UltraPure High Potency 5.0% Niacinamide Serum to my T-zone daily and I can't rave about the results enough. I didn't notice any oiliness throughout the day. A few drops are enough. If you've been waiting to see your skincare results, you'll be happy to hear that the effects of oil reduction are immediate. And the longer I used it, the less oily my skin became between applications.
The 5% Niacinamide Serum is suitable for all skin types and contains 10 clean ingredients specially formulated to treat oiliness and redness. I noticed that the skin around my nose was dry. This was easily fixed by applying less to the area and layering the moisturizer. At $35, it's not that expensive. As with any serum, it's best to apply it after washing your face and before applying moisturizer.
What to consider before purchasing niacinamide serum
Percentage of niacinamide
Niacinamide serum contains 1% to 20% niacinamide. Most dermatologists agree that if you have sensitive skin, you should start with 1% to 5% niacinamide. This range is effective in treating oily skin. High concentrations of niacinamide are great for acne-prone skin and hyperpigmentation, but these formulas can also irritate the skin.
price
Niacinamide serums are available in a variety of price ranges. You can find effective low-cost serums for less than $10 to $20. Mid-range serums cost around $30 to $40, while high-end products can cost upwards of $60. Expensive serums tend to contain additional beneficial ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, zinc, and vitamin E that enhance the effects of niacinamide.
safe and ethical ingredients
Today, more and more brands and users are prioritizing ethically produced products that are safe for use on the skin. Clean skin care products are free of chemicals that are harmful to humans and the environment, such as fragrances, formaldehyde, phthalates, and parabens. Vegan and cruelty-free skin care is gaining momentum as well. These products contain no animal-derived ingredients and are not tested on animals.
Try More Niacinamide Serum
affordable niacinamide serum
Regular Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Oil Control Serum
Regular niacinamide serum is one of the most popular and affordable options on the market. Contains 10% niacinamide, plus 1% zinc, which reduces inflammation and helps heal acne. A clean vegan product suitable for all skin types except sensitive skin.
InstaNatural Niacinamide Face Serum
This niacinamide serum is the best value considering the quantity and price. It has a low niacinamide concentration of 5%, making it suitable for sensitive skin. This formula contains skin-healthy ingredients like hyaluronic acid and avocado oil to strengthen the moisture barrier and hydrate your skin. It also contains vitamin E, which has a soothing effect, making it ideal for acne flare-ups.
Naturium Niacinamide 12% Plus Zinc 2% Face Serum
This niacinamide serum is more powerful and packed with a variety of beneficial ingredients at a lower price. Zinc, which has anti-inflammatory properties, and vitamin E, which has analgesic properties, are great for treating breakouts. Hyaluronic acid adds healthy hydration. Due to its 12% niacinamide concentration, it is not ideal for dry or sensitive skin.
COSRX 15% Niacinamide Face Serum
If you're looking for a more powerful formula at an affordable price, this 15% Niacinamide Serum with Zinc is a great choice, especially if you have acne. Clean and not tested on animals. Due to its high concentration of niacinamide, it is ideal for oily and combination skin.
Mid-range niacinamide serum
Glow Recipe Niacinamide Dew Drops
This niacinamide serum from Glow Recipe is trending on social media, and for good reason. The gentle serum can also be used as a makeup base and is suitable for all skin types. This formula is vegan and cruelty-free. Contains 2% to 3% niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and watermelon seed extract to hydrate, soothe, and brighten the skin. All of this creates the healthy, glowing look that the brand is named after.
Youth To The People Superfood Skin Drip Serum with Kale + Niacinamide
If you're looking for a glowing effect, this stronger 5% niacinamide serum is also a solid choice. Dandelion root extract has detoxifying properties and can help even out skin tone, treat age spots, and minimize acne scars. Kale extract and broccoli seed oil, rich in vitamins and nutrients, support your skin's barrier and give it a radiant, radiant look. Suitable for all skin types.
Shiny Super Pure Clarifying Face Serum with Niacinamide + Zinc
This glossier serum is perfect for people with sensitive and acne-prone skin. The gentle formula contains 5% niacinamide and zinc to help heal acne faster. Plus, it's vegan and cruelty-free.
Paula's Choice 20% Niacinamide Vitamin B3 Concentrated Serum
This powerful 20% niacinamide serum is the most concentrated formula on our list. Contains vitamin C and licorice root to brighten skin and prevent discoloration. Due to its high concentration of niacinamide, it is particularly good at minimizing large pores. Although it's more expensive, it comes in a larger bottle, so you get more value for your money. Be careful not to apply too much, and do not use if you have sensitive skin.
High-end niacinamide serum
Lancôme Clarifique Pro Solution Brightening & Dark Spot Reducing Serum
This premium serum with 10% Niacinamide fights acne, age spots, and signs of aging. Salicylic acid and rosemary oil unclog pores, reduce sebum production and leave skin clearer. Sunflower seed oil strengthens the skin's moisture barrier. Beech bud extract stimulates collagen production and supports cell regeneration for younger-looking skin. Suitable for most skin types except sensitive skin.
Summer Fridays CC Me Vitamin C + Niacinamide Serum
This anti-aging niacinamide serum contains two forms of vitamin C to brighten skin and reduce dark spots. Ascorbyl glucoside supports collagen production for a more youthful appearance. The vegan formula is suitable for normal, dry, oily and combination skin.
Sunday Riley B3 Nice 10% Niacinamide Serum
This fast-acting Sunday Riley serum contains 10% Niacinamide. Gallic acid and trans-resveratrol brighten skin and reduce dark spots, with noticeable results in just a few weeks. The cruelty-free formula is suitable for normal, oily, and combination skin.
Alpyn Beauty Wild Nettle & Niacinamide Instant Firming Serum
This niacinamide serum is perfect for mature skin. Nettle extract nourishes and moisturizes the skin while minimizing oil production. Rambutan tightens the skin, giving it a plump and youthful appearance. This formula is not tested on animals, has a 6% to 7% niacinamide concentration, and is suitable for all skin types.
Worth checking out
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