All the beauty obsessives out there know that there is a thriving community of skincare fanatics online. From TikTok to Reddit, the art and science of perfecting one's skin has become the trend du jour among millennials and Gen Z-ers.

But contrary to what the haters say, the pursuit of perfect skin isn't a frivolous one. These communities cite studies, science, and quantitative data when posting about the most exciting new skincare ingredients. 

The most recent skincare trend taking the internet by storm? Niacinamide. Skincare addicts and beauty bloggers alike are calling this skin-strengthening nutrient a miracle ingredient for all of the benefits it offers all skin types. 

What Is Niacinamide?

Niacinamide is a form of the vital nutrient vitamin B-3 that has the ability to help those on the spectrum of skin woes, from the oily, acne-prone to the mature sun-damaged.

What Niacinamide Does For Your Skin

Read on for a list of all the ways niacinamide can turn your dull, rough skin into a pore-less, glowy wonder. 

1. Strengthens weak skin barriers

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Perhaps niacinamide's most prominent claim to fame is its ability to fortify the skin's lipid barrier. The lipid barrier, also known as the stratum corneum, is the outer most layer of the skin. It is made up of vital proteins and fatty lipids. According to cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Mark Herron, your skin barrier's job is to "protect your skin and body from the external environment". A strong lipid barrier can protect your deeper skin layers from the entry of bacteria and other irritants. And niacinmide can help strengthen it. Consider adding
R.N.A.POWER Radical New Age Cream to your skincare routine to improve your skin's strength.

 

SK-II R.N.A POWER RADICAL NEW AGE CREAM 50G | $175

 

2. Visibly shrinks enlarged pores

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If the debris builds up under your skin, your pores will end up getting stretched out, giving them the appearance of looking larger. Although science isn't quite sure how, something in niacinamide gives the ingredient the ability to help "clean out" pores, making them look visibly smaller. If your pores are looking unusually large lately, reach for Declare's Pure Balance Sebum & Pore Refining Fluid to help you tighten up.

DECLARE PURE BALANCE SEBUM & PORE REFINING FLUID | $45

 

3. Softens wrinkles and fine lines

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It’s no wonder this ingredient is called a miracle in a bottle. According to the International Journal of Cosmetic Science, niacinamide has been shown to significantly improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots on mature skin. Try GA-DE's Acti-Cell Triple Protection Eye Cream if you’re interested in smoothing wrinkles and reversing sun damage on the sensitive skin around your eyes.

GA-DE ACTI-CELL TRIPLE PROTECTION EYE CREAM | 15ML

 

4. Curbs oiliness and reduces congestion

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Niacinamide isn't just an anti-aging ingredient. Its miracle-properties give it the ability to help reduce the over-production of oil in acne-prone skin types. According to a study conducted by the Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy,  a study showed that niacinamide "significantly lower[s]" sebum production when used topically. If you're struggling with blemish problem, consider adding in GA-DE's Purifying Cleansing Gel into your routine.

 

GA-DE PURIFYING CLEANSING GEL | $39

5. Boosts the effectiveness of other active ingredients

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Possibly one of the most exciting things about niacinamide is that, not only does it have its standalone benefits as a skincare ingredient, but it also works in tandem with other active ingredients (like Vitamin C and retinol) to boost their effectiveness. According to dermatologist Dr. Sam Bunting, niacinamide works well with other active ingredients because it "boosts the tolerance" of skin's reaction to irritants. If you want a serum that gives you more bang for your buck, consider buying Declare's Vital Balance Power Duo Oil + Serum. This serum comes with the one-two punch of niacinamide along with powerful antioxidants A, C, and E. 

DECLARE VITAL BALANCE POWER DUO OIL + SERUM 40ML | $85

 

Have a trendy skincare ingredient that you're obsessed with? Tell us all about it in the comments below!  

Need some help putting together the best skincare routine for your skin type? Try our skin quiz!