Nacimcide and why your skin will thank you!

You may have heard the term Niacinamide popping up frequently as a trending ingredient in the skincare market. But did you know ‘Niacin’ is a type of Vitamin B3?

It is one of the 8 water soluble B vitamins, and is a crucial nutrient for the body – in fact, every part of the body needs Niacin to function properly, most significantly for the function of obtaining energy from food. But alongside its importance in the body, this nutrient when applied topically can work wonders to protect skin cells from damage. So it’s fair to say, Niacin is more than just another beauty buzzword – it’s got the results to go with it!

First, A Little Science

Niacin, Nicotinic acid, Niacinimide and B3 are all types of Vitamin B3. All of which can have an important impact on the prevention and reversal of skin damage. This is because Vitamin B encourages and increases cell turnover by increasing the energy to the cells – resulting in a stronger skin barrier which is better able to retain moisture. In fact, the benefits Niacin can have on the skin are definitely not to be overlooked! By stimulating the production of collagen and elastin, Niacin can help visibly reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

It also works wonders for those suffering with acne, as it targets the acne by minimising and calming the first sign of inflammation, which would otherwise follow the usual acne cycle of sebum production, clogged pores and therefore an inflamed pimple. Niacin has also been found to even skin tone by stopping melanin rising through the cells to the surface of the skin, to prevent the formation of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Studies have also found Niacin has a positive affect on those suffering with Rosacea as it appears to reduce the redness and irritation. So it’s fair to say it is a powerhouse in its own right! But because Vitamin B is an essential nutrient (meaning whilst it is crucial for our health, our bodies do not naturally produce it) we need to find our own quality sources. It’s likely your diet has enough Niacin, as it can be found in foods like fish, nuts, legumes and in some instances foods like breakfast cereals are fortified with Niacin. However whilst these sources may work wonders for the body, they aren’t often as effective for the skin. This is because they must first be digested, then circulated around the body via the bloodstream, which means once it reaches the skin cells it is in very low concentrations so aren’t particularly impactful. Which is why when applying a form of Niacin topically it can be delivered directly to the skin cells in higher concentrations to maximise results. But not all sources of Niacin are made equally, which is why opting for a high quality source is crucial.

Apricot Oil 

As we mentioned, Vitamin B is water soluble – which can make things tricky when it comes to passing through the fatty layers of the stratum corneum. So the ingredient and product delivering it matters! Apricot Oil, boasting its own array of wonderful skin benefits is a relatively unknown source of natural Niacin. As the name suggests, it is extracted from the seeds of the apricot and is a light and fast absorbing oil. It has been found that the fast absorbing quality it has is due to the fact that it closely resembles the skin’s natural sebum – making it a brilliant delivery system of Niacin to the skins cells. It works wonders for the skin, from promoting radiance by protecting cells from free radical damage, to deeply nourishing skin as well as reducing fine lines and wrinkles – it’s fair to say Apricot Oil is a skincare force to be reckoned with. So to achieve the benefits of Niacin through a pure, natural and vegan source, simply include Apricot Oil in your daily skincare routine. Or better yet, include a product in your routine that allows you to bot only read the benefits of Apricot Lol, but of other skin loving ingredients to take things up a notch.

Start your routine off on the right foot with the Vemel Vitamin Boost Cleansing Balm – with the benefits of Niacin in the Apricot Oil, the moisturising properties of Shea Butter and the healing and calming nature of Seabuck Thorn Extract, it’s a cleanser that goes above and beyond. Follow this up with the Vemel Vitamin Rich Face Butter as a topical form of Niacin that allows your skin to reap its benefits as you sleep or whilst you get on with your day. This nourishing moisturiser pairs the wonders of Apricot Oil with the antimicrobial and antibacterial properties of Mango Butter to leave your skin soothed and protected. The perfect cocktail of ingredients to repair, restore and get that radiant glow back.

Whilst skincare buzzwords come and go, there are some ingredients that really speak for themselves and thus are more than just a trending topic. And it’s fair to say Niacin definitely holds up its end of the bargain! Simply find the product that can deliver it to you in the most effective and efficient way and your skin will thank you endlessly.