What Is Nicotinamide And How Is It Used To Treat Acne?
Nicotinamide, also known as niacinamide or nicotinic amide, is a water-soluble, active form of vitamin B3. Numerous different signs in the field of dermatology have increasingly been studied, but further research is needed to explain its importance.
Nicotinamide is naturally present in small quantities in yeast, lean meat , fish, nuts and legumes. It is also often added to cereals and other foodstuffs. Oral nicotinamide is available as 20–30 mg in multivitamin combinations, and on its own as inexpensive 500-mg tablets. It has also been integrated in many topical agents including sunscreens and cosmetic agents.
Facing similarities in terms, niacinamide is not the same thing as niacin. There are two distinct forms of vitamin B-3.
Is it the same thing as niacin?
However, your body will make niacinamide from the supplements you have taken. This occurs when there is an excessive amount of niacin in the body. Tryptophan can also be converted into niacinamide in the body. You should still speak to your doctor before taking vitamin B-3 or any other supplements.
Acne
Nicotinamide, which is available in topical cream, gel and oral forms (e.g. Nicomide ®), has been shown to be effective in removing acne. In a randomized clinical trial, 4 percent nicotinamide gel was found to be as effective as 1 percent clindamycin gel for the topical antibiotic treatment of acne vulgaris in 76 patients with moderate acne. The study concluded that the anti-inflammatory properties of nicotinamide may have contributed to the success of nicotinamide in acne.
Nicotinamide also decreases the development of facial sebum. Sebum is responsible for facial shine and leads to non-inflammatory comedones and inflammatory acne lesions. Results of a well-controlled clinical trial in Caucasian and Japanese women have shown that the application of 2 percent nicotinamide moisturizer to the face for 4-6 weeks decreases sebum production with substantial differences in facial shine and oiliness.
Nicotinamide gel is sold as an over-the-counter treatment for acne in Canada, Australia, NZ, the United Kingdom , the United States and Ireland. If twice daily application causes excessive drying of the skin, it may be reduced to once a day or every other day.
What benefits does niacinamide offer?
Overall, niacinamide can help create proteins in the skin and lock in moisture to avoid damage to the environment.
Individual benefits shall include:
Immunity – Niacinamide helps to create keratinTrusted Source, a form of protein that keeps your skin firm and healthy.
Barrier of lipids – Niacinamide will help your skin develop the Trusted Source Ceramide (lipid) barrier, which in turn helps to maintain moisture. This is beneficial for all types of skin, particularly if you have eczema or mature skin.
Minimizes redness and blurredness – Niacinamide decreases inflammationTrusted Source, which can help to alleviate redness from eczema, acne, and other inflammatory skin conditions.
Minimizes the appearance of pore – Keeping skin smooth and moisturizedTrusted Source may have a secondary benefit — a natural reduction in pore size over time.
It controls the oil. The advantages of moisture preservation are not limited to those with dry skin forms. Niacinamide may also help control the amount of oil released by sebaceous glands and prevent your glands from overdriving.
Protects from exposure to the sun – Niacinamide can simultaneously regenerate healthy skin cells and protect them from ultraviolet damage.
Treat hyperpigmentation – Some research has shown that 5 percent of niacinamide concentrations can be effective in lightening dark spots. Benefits were seen after four weeks, but not after two months. This benefit may be due to increased development of collagen.
It minimizes fine lines and wrinkles – Research has also found that the same concentration has been helpful in reducing certain symptoms of sun damage due to aging. It contains fine lines and wrinkles.
Protects from oxidative stress – Niacinamide helps build cells in the skin while also protecting them from environmental stress, such as sunlight, pollution and toxins.
Treats acne – Niacinamide may be helpful for severe acne, particularly inflammatory forms such as papules and pustules. Over time, you can see less lesions and a better skin texture.
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