Does Niacinamide Help Acne and Acne Scars?

March 16, 2025

Acne is a widely known skin condition known to affect millions of individuals across the globe, which sometimes leaves scars that could hinder the level of self-esteem and confidence of a person. In recent years, active acne and the scars it causes have been at the forefront of the skincare industry, and ingredients like niacinamide have entered the scene as promising treatment possibilities. In this blog, we will discuss the science of niacinamide and its efficacy to treat acne and acne scars.

What is Niacinamide?

Niacinamide, also referred to as nicotinamide or vitamin B3, is a type of water-soluble vitamin that is essential for several key biological functions, such as cellular metabolism and DNA repair. It is known for its multi-purpose properties for skin and can provide several benefits that help improve skin health.

How Niacinamide Treats Acne

Helps control sebum production: One of the key reasons for acne is over-secretion of oil. Niacinamide is essential for controlling sebum levels, which prevents clogged pores and development of new acne lesions.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Niacinamide has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and irritation, be beneficial for reducing inflamed skin or treating active breakouts, and help in avoiding friction.
Maintains Skin Barrier: Niacinamide strengthens the skin's natural barrier and prevents moisture loss, thereby protecting against environmental stressors that can lead to further aggravation of acne.

Niacinamide and Acne Scars

Niacinamide has proven to be effective on active forms of acne, but it also has an important role in treating acne scars as well:

Reduces Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): Acne can result in dark spots or discoloration, a condition known as PIH. Niacinamide brightening these dark patches and aid give you even tone of skin.
Helps with better skin texture: Niacinamide improves skin texture by increasing the production of collagen, which is essential for skin renewal and assists in the filling of depressions caused by scars.
Reduces Redness & Discoloration: This ingredient works wonders on reducing the redness that comes with acne scars, helping diminish their visibility over time.

Scientific Backing

Niacinamide has been proven with numerous studies to be effective for treating acne and acne scars. Studies show that when applied topically, niacinamide can make skin texture noticeably smoother and acne less severe. In addition, its power to reduce inflammation and control oil production make it an important part of any acne treatment program.

The Best Way to Use Niacinamide in Your Skincare Routine

To reap the full benefits from niacinamide, keep these tips in mind:

Select the Right Strength: There is a wide range of concentrations available, typically anywhere from 2-5% for beginners. Increase the concentration slowly, and your skin will adjust.
Layer: Use niacinamide after cleansing, then a moisturizer. For best results, it can be applied in the morning and evening.
Can Be Used With Other Ingredients: Niacinamide can be combined with other active ingredients (like retinoids, hyaluronic acid etc.) and increases its effectiveness in treating acne and scars.

SOME BY MI's Yuja Niacin Anti-Blemish Serum has 10% niacinamide that can assist you with regulating oil production and smoothening the skin surface, powerfully packed with Yuja's vitamin C that can also help with the post-acne hyperpigmentation.

Dr. Althea's 345 Relief Cream is famous for its ability to soothe post-acne scars, also containing niacinamide. This product is also great for using on your body, for treating acne marks and other irritation on you body, as it comes in a tube type.

Conclusion

Niacinamide is a strong defender against acne and its marks. When included in skincare products, it can even out oil production, help reduce inflammation, and improve skin texture, making it a must-have in any skincare regimen to attain cleaner and healthier skin. So, by including niacinamide in your daily routine, you can eliminate a good amount of acne scars and improve your skin texture.

Check out our niacinamide products in our online store and begin your path to clearer skin today!

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