In the vast and overwhelming world of skin care, Niacinamide is certainly an outlier. This ingredient can work effectively in anyone’s daily routine, regardless of skin type. Not only does it attract and lock moisture into the skin, it also regulates sebum production, and that’s not all the benefits it offers to the skin. The best part is that it works effectively in tandem with other skincare ingredients. You can learn more about what Niacinamide is and how it works on the skin here.
What is Niacinamide?
Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B3, also known as Niacin, that is rich in antioxidants and hydrating properties. You’ll find it commonly found in serums and other similar products, providing anti-aging benefits to the skin and improving overall skin hydration. Any water that is contained around the face or in other product formulas is drawn to the surface of the skin and bound there. The result is a plump, radiant, healthy-looking complexion. You’ll also notice a noticeable reduction in signs of dehydration, which are often mistaken for the first signs of premature aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles. If you’d like to learn more about Niacinamide and its skin benefits, check out our dedicated blog post on The Beauty Insiders.
Now that you’ve gotten a refresher course on niacinamide, let’s answer today’s question: Can you use niacinamide on broken skin? Let’s get started to learn more about how this clever moisturizer works on open wounds and broken skin.
Can I apply niacinamide on open wounds?
Yes, you can apply niacinamide to open wounds and even during rosacea and acne flare-ups. That’s because the vitamin’s anti-inflammatory effects may work by increasing the production of fibroblast migration and proliferation. Both are responsible for supporting the healing of the skin surface of open wounds or broken skin. Applying niacinamide topically to wounds can increase the rate of healing without causing adverse side effects such as stinging, redness, or irritation.
However, everyone’s skin is different. Always consult your doctor or dermatologist before using any new formula or skincare ingredient before applying it to your face.
Can I use niacinamide on peeling skin?
In any case. In fact, niacinamide is the best ingredient to apply to your skin if you notice your skin starting to peel. Whatever causes your skin to peel, whether it’s sunburn or careless exfoliation, Niacinamide will easily fix it, keeping your complexion hydrated. You’ll also notice improvements in your overall skin texture, as well as the strength of your protective skin barrier. By strengthening your skin barrier, you’ll also find that your skin is able to fight off any exposure to free radicals, such as UV rays, pollution, and other environmental aggressors, all of which can damage the skin.
If you notice your skin peeling or are concerned about it, using Niacinamide daily will keep your complexion healthy, plump, and radiant. You’ll also find that by combating the dryness that often accompanies peeling skin, any products you apply afterwards will absorb quickly and effectively into the skin’s surface.
Can Niacinamide be used to treat breakouts?
Yes, you can, and for many people, Niacinamide is the secret weapon in the fight against acne. As I mentioned before, Niacinamide promotes skin healing, and when applied to open pimples, the size of the blemish will be reduced due to Niacinamide’s anti-inflammatory properties.
You’ll also notice that when pimples break out or open, the risk of acne scarring increases. By applying niacinamide topically to the affected area, you can prevent hyperpigmentation or scarring and find that inflammation is reduced and scars do not appear.
Does niacinamide make skin worse?
Not necessarily, but keep in mind that your skin may not tolerate regular use of niacinamide. Unlike other skin ingredients, such as exfoliating fruit acids like glycolic acid or active vitamin C concentrations, niacinamide does not cause skin clearing. Clearing is when an exfoliating ingredient is applied to the skin and causes increased skin cell turnover. The good news is that niacinamide rarely causes skin clearing, but it may cause minor breakouts. This is usually related to the percentage of the ingredient being higher than 10%, as sometimes this can be too strong for some skin types. If you notice a rash, it is best to pay attention to how long it takes for the rash to disappear. If it lasts longer than 4 weeks, stop using the niacinamide product and seek advice from your primary care provider or doctor.
What can heal injured facial skin quickly?
The best way to heal injured skin quickly is to always keep it moisturized. I am not talking about keeping your face moisturized, but using plenty of moisturizing ingredients that have a hydrating effect, such as petrolatum, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide. By ensuring that the injured skin has a constant moisture layer, it will heal faster and feel comfortable throughout the healing process.
What ointment can I use for acne on broken skin?
There are some things that you should not apply to acne on broken skin. Avoid using harsh formulas on broken skin, as well as ingredients such as sulfur, benzoyl peroxide, and salicylic acid. Make sure to moisturize the affected area, as this can prevent the skin barrier from weakening and becoming vulnerable to free radical damage, such as UV rays, pollution, and other aggressors.
