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The science behind niacinamide:
why it’s a skincare essential for oily skin

3 minutes to read

 

If you have oily skin you’ll know it can be difficult to manage. Your skin may be more prone to spots or acne, have enlarged pores or become slick and shiny throughout the day. Oily skin happens due to excessive sebum production, however, there are a few ingredients that can help you combat this. Read on to find out the answers to questions like ‘what is niacinamide and how can it help oily skin?’, along with how to use niacinamide in your shower routine to help regulate sebum production.


What is niacinamide and how does it work?

Niacinamide is a water-soluble form of vitamin B3 and, when used topically, it works with your skin to offer many benefits. So, what does niacinamide do for skin? It can help to minimise and tighten your pores, soften fine lines and wrinkles, improve uneven skin tone and brighten your complexion. Niacinamide has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce redness and imperfections, it also works to strengthen your skin barrier and reduce the impact of environmental damage. One of the best things about using niacinamide in your skincare routine is that it removes excess oil without stripping your skin of its natural moisture, which keeps it hydrated. Niacinamide can be especially beneficial for oily skin, but all skin types should notice an improvement with consistent use. 

Why oily skin needs special care in the shower

It’s not just the skin on your face that can struggle with excessive sebum production, you may also find other areas of your body get oily, like your chest, back and shoulders. Just like on your face, excessive oil can lead to spots or acne in these areas. Showering with water that is too hot or for too long can strip your skin of its natural oils, causing your skin to produce more sebum to compensate. So, it’s equally important to regulate sebum production on the rest of your body. You can do this by using a shower cream that contains niacinamide and is formulated for oily skin. Sanex Skin Therapy with Niacinamide helps to reduce sebum*, leaving your skin feeling purified and clean. It gently cleanses your skin without irritation, leaving your skin noticeably more hydrated and visibly smoother.

The perfect shower routine for oily skin

Your shower routine can have a big impact on your skin – both positively and negatively. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your shower routine if you have oily skin:

  • Use lukewarm water when showering or bathing. Water that is too hot will strip your skin of its natural oils and leave it feeling dry. If you have oily skin, it may then produce more sebum to counteract the dryness. 
  • Avoid harsh shower gels that contain fragrance and sulphates and use a shower cream that contains niacinamide. Sanex Skin Therapy uses our revolutionary Amino Acid Complex with Niacinamide to support your skin barrier and deliver a 24-hour hydration feel*, and it contains 0% sulphates**.
  • Be gentle and avoid scrubbing your skin with rough sponges or shower puffs. 
  • After showering, pat your skin dry with a soft, dry towel. 
  • While your skin is still damp, apply a lightweight and oil-free moisturiser to lock in hydration.  

Benefits of niacinamide in your shower routine

There are many ways that using a body wash with niacinamide in your routine can improve the  look and feel of your skin. Here are some of the benefits:

  • Regulate sebum production – Excess sebum causes spots, and when it gets trapped in your pores it causes breakouts, blackheads and even acne. A niacinamide body wash can help to remove this excess oil without stripping your skin and leaving it dry. 
  • Fights bacteria – Niacinamide helps to reduce the activity of the bacteria that cause spots, leaving you with clearer and brighter skin.
  • Reduces inflammation – Niacinamide contains anti-inflammatory properties that help to heal your skin from within and prevent acne scarring. It also helps to soothe the redness and irritation that go hand in hand with acne. 
  • Repairs your skin barrier – Using a shower cream that contains niacinamide can help to strengthen your skin barrier and keep it healthy. Your skin barrier helps to keep your skin feeling soft and hydrated and will heal acne faster. 
  • Improves pigmentation – When acne heals it can leave dark spots known as hyperpigmentation. Niacinamide can help these dark spots to fade and leave your skin brighter and smoother. 

FAQs

Here are the answers to some commonly asked questions about niacinamide and skincare:

Which skin type should not use niacinamide?

Niacinamide is suitable for all skin types, however, if you have sensitive skin it’s a good idea to introduce it slowly and patch test it on a small area of your skin to check for any reactions like redness or irritation. 

Is vitamin C or niacinamide better for oily skin?

Vitamin C is another ingredient that is effective at reducing pigmentation and brightening your skin, however, if you have oily skin, niacinamide is more effective at regulating oil production. Vitamin C is slightly acidic, so if you have sensitive skin, you may be better off opting for niacinamide. 

Do I need vitamin C if I use niacinamide?

While some skincare products should be used separately or on alternate days, layering vitamin C and niacinamide can actually enhance the benefits of both ingredients. 

*After 2 weeks daily use, consumer study, 112 subjects, France.
**Does not contain any sulphate-based surfactants.

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