Niacinamide
Niacinamide, also known as nicotinamide, is a form of Vitamin B3, a water-soluble vitamin that is an important precursor of many oxidation-reduction coenzymes involved in over 40 cellular biochemical reactions. In addition, it can act as an antioxidant to improve epidermal barrier function, reduce hyperpigmentation, improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, reduce redness, and improve skin elasticity.
Niacinamide can improve the barrier function of the skin by upregulating the synthesis of ceramides and intercellular lipids and by stimulating keratinocyte differentiation.
It is thought that niacinamide can improve skin texture by increasing the epidermal turnover rate and thereby acting as a mild exfoliant.
Clinical Trial Results
This study shows an improvement in a trial with 2% niacinamide was able to increase ceramide synthesis by 2.3 fold, cholesterol synthesis by 1.5 fold, and increased free fatty acid levels in the stratum corneum and decreased transepidermal water loss.
This study of 50 females with photodamaged skin using 5%
niacinamide twice daily for three months showed an improvement in hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and wrinkles red blotchiness, skin shallowness, and increased skin elasticity.
Key Benefits:
-Inhibits tyroisinase, the enzyme responsible for producing pigmentation following UV exposure
- Contains liquiritin, a compound that helps reverse melanin discoloration in the skin
- Acts as an anti-inflammatory
agent that can reduce redness, irritation and swelling
- Effective in the treatment of atopic dermatitis, eczema and acne
- Acts as an antioxidant
to protect the skin from oxidative damage
- May help reduce and regulate oil production
Adding Oat to Your Routine
If you are struggling with ?, or simply want skin to look a little brighter and more even toned, licorice is a great ingredient to incorporate into your routine. It's also a natural alternative to chemical brighteners and is really gentle on inflamed skin. You can find oat kernal extract in our Postbiotic Ceramide Oil Cleanser, Postbiotic Ceramide Gentle Cleanser, Postbiotic Ceramide Essence Toner, Postbiotic Ceramide Active Serum and Postbiotic Ceramide Active Moisturiser
References:
Glycyrrhiza glabra - A plant for the future. Mintage. Journal of Pharmaceutical and Medical Sciences, 2013
Cosmeceuticals for hyperpigmentation: What is Available? Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery, 2013
The treatment of atopic dermatitis with licorice gel. The Journal of Dermatological Treatment,
2003
