Niacinamide Or Vitamin C: Benefits & Differences

Table of Contents

• What does Niacinamide do?
• Benefits of Niacinamide
• What does Vitamin C do?
• Benefits of Vitamin C
• Key Difference between Niacinamide & Vitamin C
• Which is better? Niacinamide or Vitamin C
• Can you use Niacinamide and Vitamin C together?
• Comparatively,
• FAQ

Skincare boasts active ingredients like Niacinamide and Vitamin C to achieve radiant and healthy skin. Though both can become an essential part of your skincare routine, it's always better to know what you actually need the ingredient you're using to do. 

In this blog, we’ll understand what niacinamide and vitamin C are used for, the difference between niacinamide or vitamin c, and which one to use for your needs.

What does Niacinamide do?

Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B3, that strengthens the skin barrier, protects against environmental stressors and retains moisture in the skin. Niacinamide is suitable for all skin types and concerns including premature aging, hyperpigmentation and acne, thus it takes the name “Beauty Vitamin”. Niacinamide is a saviour ingredient for oily or acne prone skin because it helps minimize the appearance of pores, balance oil production and provide a smoother complexion.

Benefits of Niacinamide

Anti-Inflammatory

Niacinamide is a very beneficial choice for sensitive or acne prone skin as it helps calm and soothe skin redness and irritation. It reduces swelling and inflammation and promotes a balanced skin texture.

Strengthen Skin Barrier

Niacinamide helps the skin become more resilient against environmental damages like pollution and sun exposure. It increases ceramide production which helps provide and retain moisture in the skin which is beneficial for dry skin type.

Smooth Skin Tone

Niacinamide helps regulate oil production and reduces the appearance of large pores. It also fades signs of aging or acne scars on the skin. Niacinamide brightens the hyperpigmented areas contributing to an overall even skin tone and texture.

What does Vitamin C do?

Vitamin C is used to brighten the complexion and promote a more healthy skin. It is effective in protecting the skin from environmental damage and free radicals, which in turn helps reduce skin aging and pigmentation. Vitamin C is considered as one of the most potent antioxidants that can be used on the skin. It also increases collagen production leading to a smoother and youthful skin appearance.

Benefits of Vitamin C

Brightens Skin

Vitamin C is most popular for its brightening properties as it controls excess melanin production in the skin, which helps reduce the appearance of dark spots, hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone. It provides a more radiant and smooth skin complexion.

Prevents Skin Aging

Vitamin C helps boost the production of collagen which is responsible for skin elasticity and firmness. It helps fade signs of aging such as fine lines, wrinkles and sagging skin. Vitamin C promotes a toned, plump and youthful look.

Protects From Damage

Vitamin C has antioxidant properties that protect against and reduce the damages caused by environmental factors. It also helps reduce skin inflammation and redness and provides moisture to the skin.

Key Difference between Niacinamide & Vitamin C

Which is better? Niacinamide or Vitamin C

Both Niacinamide and Vitamin C have different unique benefits and have different mechanisms. And when it comes to the rivalry of which one is better, then it solely depends on the skin concerns you're fighting.

Niacinamide is a gentle ingredient suitable for sensitive skin to treat inflammation and signs of aging. Whereas Vitamin C is focused on protecting the skin, improving its tone and texture and fading skin aging.

However, to be honest, Niacinamide is better than Vitamin C because Niacinamide is a stable compound and is suitable for all skin types, even sensitive skin, while Vitamin C is unstable and degradable in nature and doesn't suit sensitive skin types.

Can you use Niacinamide and Vitamin C together?

You know what's a better option than picking one of niacinamide or vitamin c? Incorporating both ingredients in your routine for the best results. Both the ingredients are powerful for achieving bright and rejuvenated skin. You can use vitamin C in the morning and niacinamide in the evening.

Earlier combining both the ingredients was considered to cause skin inflammation but research says that it is unlikely to happen. Using both together can help combat dullness, loss of skin elasticity, and uneven skin. It also helps repair and strengthen the skin barrier reducing moisture loss.

Niacinamide focuses on calming the skin and soothing irritation, whereas vitamin C focuses on reducing dark spots and fighting skin damage.

Comparatively,

Niacinamide and Vitamin C are both excellent choices but the choice highkey depends on your skin concerns. If you want hydration, oil control and barrier repair, niacinamide is the one for you. And for brightening, anti-ageing and damage protection, vitamin C is the right match. For more optimal results, you can even combine or layer the two ingredients or use them at separate times. 

FAQ

Can niacinamide brighten skin?

Yes, niacinamide can help brighten your skin complexion over time and consistent use. It prevents the transfer of melanin to the surface cells reducing dark spots and hyperpigmentation.

Is vitamin C or niacinamide better for hyperpigmentation?

Both Vitamin C and Niacinamide are effective in fading hyperpigmentation but they differ in their method. Vitamin C blocks melanin production and niacinamide blocks the transfer of melanin to cells.

Can I use niacinamide every day?

Absolutely! Niacinamide is a gentle ingredient that can be used daily without any fear of skin irritation. Make sure to apply sunscreen during the day to protect the skin from UV damage.

Which goes first, vitamin C or niacinamide?

When it comes to vitamin c or niacinamide first, they can be used at separate times but when layering, vitamin C is applied first on clean skin followed by niacinamide that works well with most ingredients.

Can I use vitamin C at night?

Though Vitamin C works best during the day because of its antioxidant properties, it can still be used at night. It will help with skin regeneration and help fade signs of aging while you sleep.

Written by Madiha Patel