Your Guide To Niacinamide And Vitamin C

When it comes to Niacinamide and Vitamin C, two of the most well-known skincare ingredients on the market, there's a lot of conflicting advice. Both ingredients provide the skin with an abundance of benefits but can they be used together? Will this combination cause irritation to the skin or is it a powerful duo? We’ll explain.

Let's talk about each ingredient

Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that is required for the growth and repair of tissues, which of course includes our skin. It also plays an important role in collagen synthesis which supports the skin and structure. Not only that, it helps defend against free-radical damage and inhibits melanin production in the skin which helps to lighten hyperpigmentation, scarring and enhance radiance.

On the other hand, Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that does just about everything. It regulates oil production, strengthens the skin barrier, brightens, fights premature ageing, calms breakouts, reduces enlarged pores and improves hydration.

Can you use both together?

Yes, and it’s super beneficial! Outdated research from the 1960’s suggests that combining Niacinamide and Vitamin C could potentially react and produce Niacin which has an unpleasant side effect of flushing or irritation. However, this only occurs when L-ascorbic acid (the most potent, pure version of Vitamin C) and Niacinamide are held at high temperatures. These studies also used non-stabilised forms of Niacinamide and Vitamin C whereas modern-day skincare uses highly stabilised ingredients that last longer and take longer to degrade.

In particular, L-ascorbic acid is a notoriously unstable molecule that is easily affected by sunlight exposure and oxygen - which means it’s super important that it’s formulated correctly. Our Glow Serum is formulated with Ascorbyl Glucoside - which is a derivative of L-ascorbic acid. While it’s not as potent as the pure stuff, it’s super stable and also more gentle on the skin.

Why you should be using both

Combining both Niacinamide and Vitamin C not only isn't a problem, but it’s also actually a great move to achieving brighter, younger skin. Together, this powerful combination will improve hydration, dull skin and visible signs of ageing.

How do I layer Vitamin C & Niacinamide

So which one comes first? Niacinamide or Vitamin C? Our golden rule is always to apply products from thinnest to thickest. In other words, water-based serums come first, then follow with moisturisers, creams and lastly oils. If both products are formulated in a similar way, place a drop of each on an upwards facing palm, tilt 90° and see which one drips down faster - the fastest is usually the thinnest.

What other ingredients do I need in my skincare routine?

It’s easy... it’s vitamin A*, B and C. With thousands of skincare products out there it’s hard to know which ones are a priority. And the same goes for topical vitamins. Read our blog on how you can incorporate all three ingredients within your skincare routine. 

Not sure which serum is right for you? Take our skin quiz.