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How to Layer Niacinamide with Other Skincare Actives?

Dr. Mugi Anju

5 Min Read

Fast Check Fact Checked

Niacinamide is a versatile skincare active that pairs well with vitamin C, retinol, hyaluronic acid, and more. Layer it correctly for glowing, healthy skin. Use vitamin C before niacinamide, alternate retinol, and niacinamide, and apply hyaluronic acid first for maximum hydration.

The Ultimate Guide to Layering Niacinamide with Skincare Actives for Radiant Skin

Niacinamide has taken the skincare world by storm and for good reason. This multi-tasking powerhouse ingredient addresses various skin concerns, from minimizing pores and fading hyperpigmentation to soothing inflammation. But did you know that layering niacinamide with other actives can amplify its benefits?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the art of combining niacinamide with other skincare superstars like vitamin C, retinol, hyaluronic acid, and more. You’ll learn the best combinations for your specific needs, along with expert layering techniques to achieve your dream complexion.

MFine Pore Minimizing Serum (10% Niacinamide Serum)

What is niacinamide (vitamin B3)?

Niacinamide, is a water-soluble vitamin, meaning they are easily dissolved in water and absorbed easily into your skin. They play an important role in maintaining healthy skin.

Niacinamide is a key ingredient in many skincare products due to its impressive versatility and effectiveness.

How does niacinamide benefit the skin?

Niacinamide is known for its versatility, working wonders for your skin in several ways:

Soothes inflammation: Calms redness and irritation.
Balances oil production: Controls shine and prevent breakouts.
Refines texture: Smooth roughness and minimizes pores for a softer, more even appearance.
Brightens complexion: Fades dark spots, evens skin tone, and promotes a radiant glow.
Strengthens skin barrier: Improves moisture retention and protects against dehydration.
Reduces signs of aging: Stimulates collagen production, smoothing fine lines and wrinkles.

Read about the 7 benefits of niacinamide serum for acne!

Why layering matters?

When you combine niacinamide with other active ingredients such as vitamin C or hyaluronic acid, their benefits work even better together than they would separately.

However, incorrect layering can lead to irritation or decreased efficacy. That’s why it’s crucial to understand the ideal combinations and layering techniques.

The Best Combinations

Niacinamide and Vitamin C

One of the most popular niacinamide pairings is with vitamin C. This duo is a powerhouse and helps brighten and even out your skin tone.

Benefits: Together, they brighten the complexion, fade hyperpigmentation, boost collagen production, and protect against environmental damage.
Layering tips: Apply vitamin C serum first, allow it to absorb, and then follow with a niacinamide serum.
Recommended products: Look for serums that combine both ingredients for convenience.

MFine Cera Bright Moisturizer (Ceramide + 8% Vitamin C Moisturizer)

Niacinamide and Retinol

Combining niacinamide with retinol can be a game-changer for anti-ageing and skin texture improvement.

Benefits: This duo smooths out fine lines and wrinkles, improves skin texture, reduces acne, and promotes a clearer complexion.
Layering tips: Start slow to avoid irritation. Use retinol at night and niacinamide in the morning or on alternate nights.
Cautions: This combo can be potent, so patch test and gradually increase frequency.

MFine Anti-Wrinkle Night Serum (0.05% Retinol Night Serum)

Niacinamide and Salicylic Acid

If you struggle with acne or oily skin, pairing niacinamide with salicylic acid can be a winning combination.

How to pair niacinamide and salicylic acid: Use a salicylic acid cleanser to unclog pores, followed by a niacinamide serum or moisturizer to soothe and hydrate.
Benefits: Salicylic acid clears acne, controls oil, and minimizes pores, while niacinamide reduces inflammation and promotes healing.
Layering tips: Salicylic acid can be drying, so follow up with niacinamide to replenish moisture.

MFine Anti-Acne Skin Lightening Night Serum (5% Azelaic Acid + 1% Salicylic Acid Night Serum)

anti-acne skin lightening night serum benefits

Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid

For intense hydration and plump skin, niacinamide and hyaluronic acid are the perfect match.

Benefits: Hyaluronic acid draws moisture into the skin, while niacinamide helps to lock it in, resulting in smoother, plumper, and more hydrated skin.
Layering tips: Apply hyaluronic acid first to create a hydrated base, then follow with niacinamide.

Read about the 9 astonishing benefits of hyaluronic acid!

Bonus Combinations

Niacinamide + Peptides: This pairing helps reduce visible signs of aging, boost collagen production and makes the skin firm.
Niacinamide + Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (SAP): SAP is a gentler form of vitamin C, making it suitable for sensitive skin. Combined with niacinamide, it brightens and evens out skin tone.
Niacinamide + Centella Asiatica: Centella Asiatica soothes and repairs the skin, making it a great addition for those with sensitive or irritated skin.

Layering Niacinamide: 3 Simple Techniques

Simple Layering (lightest to heaviest): A good rule of thumb is to apply your products from the thinnest to thickest consistency, allowing each layer to absorb before applying the next. This ensures optimal penetration of active ingredients.
Sandwich Method (hydration-active-hydration): Start with a hydrating toner or essence, then apply your active ingredient (niacinamide or another serum), and finish with a moisturizer to seal everything in.
Timed Application (morning vs. night): Some actives work best at different times of the day. For example, retinol is typically used at night, while niacinamide can be used both morning and night.

Why should you layer Hyaluronic Acid before Niacinamide and Vitamin C Serums?

Hyaluronic acid is a humectant i.e., they attract and hold onto water. By applying it first, you create a hydrated canvas for other serums to penetrate more effectively. Niacinamide and vitamin C can then work their magic on well-moisturized skin, leading to better absorption and enhanced results.

How to Include Niacinamide in Your Skincare Routine

Choose: Opt for a 5-10% niacinamide serum or moisturizer, considering your skin type (gel for oily, cream for dry).
Cleanse: Gently wash your face to remove impurities.
Tone (Optional): Apply toner to balance your skin.
Niacinamide: Smooth on a few drops of serum or a pea-sized amount of moisturizer.
Moisturize: Seal in hydration with your favorite moisturizer.
Sunscreen (Daytime): Protect your skin with broad-spectrum SPF.

Read about why you should use sunscreen SPF 50/PA+++?

Conclusion

By using niacinamide with other skincare actives, you can improve your skin and address multiple concerns at the same time. Start slowly, patch test, and pay attention to your skin. With the right combinations and techniques, you can achieve healthy, glowing skin.