niacinamide vs. hyaluronic acid
Niacinamide seems to be having a moment right now in skincare. It’s used as an ingredient in serums, moisturizers, and cleansers. It’s touted as being helpful for hydrating the skin by strengthening the skin barrier. Another popular skincare ingredient is hyaluronic acid which is purported to retain up to 1,000 times it’s weight in water, also helping to keep moisture within the skin. So, do they both provide the same function? Is one more efficacious than the other? Let’s dive in.
Niacinamide is actually a form of Vitamin B3, a water-soluble vitamin. When used topically it can increase collagen production, reduce fine lines and wrinkles and inflammation, protect against oxidation (free radicals that can age the skin), treat acne, and reduce hyperpigmentation (dark spots on the skin). As far as it’s hydration abilities, Niacinamide helps retain moisture, strengthen the lipid barrier of the skin, and maintain normal sebum production (prevent oiliness). What can’t this powerhouse vitamin do?!
In contrast, hyaluronic acid is a glycosaminoglycan, or a long polysaccharide carbohydrate. Polysaccharides (think chia seeds) are known for their ability to soak up water and turn into an ooey-gooey, gel-like substance. And this is what you want for your skin! Hyaluronic acid helps the skin stay moist, plump and dewy looking. Although your body naturally makes hyaluronic acid, production slows after the age of 40. By using hyaluronic acid, you can help the skin look tighter, more supple and hydrated, and minimize fine lines.
Both Niacinamide and Hyaluronic acid have wonderful benefits for the skin, the use of each depends on your skin goals and problem areas. Are you more concerned about your skin looking dry or dehydrated? Go for hyaluronic acid. Worried about acne and maintaining healthy sebum production? Choose niacinamide. You can use them separately or together in a formula, as they complement each other well. Pro Tip: My recommendation is to use them in serums to get the most benefit. Serums are molecularly smaller than other products like moisturizers and cleansers. So, your niacinamide serum will penetrate deeper into the layers of your skin versus a moisturizer that contains niacinamide that will only benefit the top layer of your skin.