How to Use Niacinamide for Skin Rejuvenation

Niacinamide, also called niacin, nicotinamide and vitamin B3 is an important vitamin for carbohydrate and protein metabolism in the body. Niacinamide has been well known for its role in boosting good cholesterol or HDL in the body. But niacinamide's role as a skin rejuvenating ingredient is not so well known. Studies have shown that niacinamide can be effective at treating acne, fading hyperpigmentation, and improving skin barrier functions. Gentler than retinoids and glycolic acids, the ingredient is a great alternative to standard skin rejuvenating treatments.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Cosmetic grade niacinamide powder
• Aloe Vera Gel
• Skin care product with niacinamide

1. Buy a cosmetic grade pure powdered form of niacinamide, to make a DIY version of a skin treatment containing the active ingredient. The stability, and high safety profile of niacinamide make it a perfect ingredient to experiment with. Add the niacinamide powder to a favorite cream or gel with a neutral ph such as aloe vera gel, in a ratio of 1:7. In other words, 1 gram of niacinamide should be added to 7 ounces of gel or cream.

2. Use an anti-aging treatment containing niacinamide for skin rejuvenation. Given the promise of the ingredient, several cosmetic companies have begun to include niacinamide in their skin care preparations. Skin care products featuring niacinamide as their key ingredient, address skin damage associated with sun exposure, such as age spots, loss of elasticity, and moisture levels.

3. Use a 4% niacinamide gel to treat mild to moderate acne. Studies have confirmed that a 4% niacinamide gel is as effective at combating acne as a 1% clindamycin gel. Consult a dermatologist or an alternative medicine doctor for a prescription. Some over the counter products containing the ingredient available in natural health stores.

4. Include foods containing niacinamide or vitamin B3 regularly in a diet. Diets that have corn or maize as a staple, and alcoholism can result in a deficiency of the nutrient. Skin conditions such as canker sores, and scaly skin are a sign of deficiency of niacin in the body. Rich dietary sources of niacinamide include mushrooms, eggs, liver, peanut butter and fortified cereals.

Tips & Warnings

• Consult a dermatologist before starting to using a 4% niacinamide gel for acne.
• Niacinamide should not be used by people who are allergic to the ingredient.

Resources

• Anti wrinkle effects of niacinamide
• Generic niacinamide face mask
• Topical niacinamide for skin rejuvenation
• Proctor and Gambles Niacinamide study

[deepthinkin]

on 3/12/2009 Thanks - I'm always interested in natural ways to keep skin healthy!

[Sidhartha]

on 3/12/2009 thanks for the useful information.

[Anai]

on 3/12/2009 Thanks for your article. I did not know that a high consumption of corn can lead to niacinamide deficiency.

[MIghtyDreamer]

on 3/12/2009 thanks for these skin tips

[cherold598]

on 3/12/2009 Thanks for tips about how to Use Niacinamide for Skin Rejuvenation. I never hear about it before. 5*