The absorption pH is REALLY different. Thank you for starting this discussion. The entry goes on to explain that Niacinamide is also to help repair damage from UV light and environmental pollutants. The low pH of the vit C causes the niacinamide to turn into niacin which flushes the skin. I think the only reason there's some discussion about not using them together is because niacinamide can cause flushing after using Vitamin C. With that being said, because my routine doesn't include lots of steps, I can use vit C in AM and leave niacinamide for PM. However, Niacinamide can minimise the benefits of Vitamin C when applied together. The way niacinamide works for preventing premature aging is quite simple – this ingredient is an antioxidant that blocks the free radical damage caused by sun exposure and pollution. In general, this topic seems to not have much research done on it recently. Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 (aka niacin), and it offers a laundry list of different benefits that make it a great pick for anyone and everyone, no matter your complexion concern. Go forth! I am very interested in what others have to say! Hey, I have recently added niacinamide to my nightly routine but seem to be breaking out more than usual. Niacinamide is a water-based serum that regulates sebum and minimizes pores. Niacinamide is one of the vitamins that your body needs to stay healthy. Residue left over by cleansing oils creates a barrier preventing water-soluble vitamin C from penetrating the skin. The creams or serums should not be at a low PH and then there is no problem. However, general overview of combining niacinamide with any form of C = no major problem. 3 - Zabiolah Shahmoradi, A. Are niacinamide and vitamin C the skin care equivalent of oil and water? Nia combined with non acidic forms of vitamin C such as Tetra = no problem. Vitamin C and Niacinamide are the Britney and Xtina of skincare. The absorption pH is REALLY different. In their official Regiment Guide, the Ordinary suggests avoiding using vitamin C and niacinamide at the same time. For instance, she completely ignores the [very small] amount of niacinamide and ascorbic acid that actually deteriorate. Pure vitamin C, Ascorbic acid (5%), makes your skin clear and radiant. There are several on the market including SAP and MAP and many more. , FRSH 1. save. The vitamin C would go first and I would wait at least 20-30 min after the vit C to use the niacinamide to avoid a niacin flush. Rumour has it, these two skincare superstars hate each other’s guts and can’t stand working together. But in general, it perfectly interacts with all the ingredients. The fear is that this will degrade the performance of each but if the ph is higher than no problem there is no exchange and they work well together. These studies were off from the start because they used non-stabilized forms of both ingredients, whereas both ingredients are typically stabilized when used in modern formulas. L Ascorbic acid is not one of them. I've only tried the TO niacinamide serum before of niacinamide serums, but I prefer this one immensely more. So, I have a sense it's their marketing or possibly even the founder that writes their material. ... Reddit cosmetic chemist Stephen Alain Ko was the first to point out they can be used together. So make sure to really wipe your face off. The incompatibility between niacinamide and Ascorbic acid has been debunked a long time ago, so I would not worry - niacinamide is naturally present in the skin, if incompatibility were real, we could never apply vitamin c at all. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant, so it protects your skin from premature aging by neutralizing free radicals. In the same vein as vitamin C, niacinamide is a bit of a powerhouse ingredient. Niacinamide is best paired with other antioxidants, like vitamin E, vitamin C, … Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps prevent the formation of free radicals to maintain the collagen and elastin in the skin. Acidic forms of vitamin C destroy Niacinamide. The studies showing incompatibility between niacinamide and vitamin C date back to the early 1960s (yes, that far). Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts, http://kindofstephen.com/can-you-use-niacinamide-and-vitamin-c-ascorbic/, also stated things that are very incorrect about SPF. What Stephen Alain Ko says in the article seems to make sense and I am inclined to think that vitamin C and niacinamide are okay to use together. I really want to believe this, but I am not a chemist in any way and the warning on The Ordinary's website still worries me. I was looking to try Inkey List Vitamin B, C, and E moisturizer, but was concerned there may be a problem using a moisturizer with vitamin C. Has anyone tried this or similar combinations? Rumour has it, these two skincare superstars hate each other’s guts and can’t stand working together. I used the famous Skinceuticals CE Ferulic for a short time a few years ago and had great results with it evening out pigmentation, but I couldn’t deal with the price tag — $166 for one ounce! Although they're both antioxidants, vitamin C is one ingredient that's not compatible with niacinamide. Yes, according to all the dermatologists and experts we consulted.. Then why all the drama about the combo? Niacinamide is a relatively new ingredient on the skincare scene. It’s a form of vitamin B-B3, to be specific. A lot of times when people suggest against using vitamin C and niacinamide, they cite this article. Niacinamide, or vitamin B3, is a great skin-care multitasker — it can help neutralize redness, soothe breakouts, lighten up hyperpigmentation, smooth fine lines, and more. Thanks! Niacinamide, also known as nicotinamide, is the active form of niacin (also known as vitamin B3 or nicotinic acid). 100% Upvoted. Prudvi Kaka, chief scientific officer at Deciem, told R29: "Niacinamide has the potential to affect the integrity of vitamin C," essentially making it less potent. Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B-3. First, it features an incorrect molecular formula. They are not even fine in the same bottle for minutes. or any other outlooks on the mix. Niacinamide Mechanism of Action. They never explain their reasoning behind it, and so while it could very well be the results of their research, it also could be "better safe than sorry because we don't know" or even a marketing technique for people who are familiar with the whole vitamin C and niacinamide issues and would be glad seeing a skincare company addressing it. Option 3: Apply Them at the Same Time. Benefits of Vitamin C: Vitamin C has an excellent safety profile. If you want to avoid this sensation I would simply layer a different product between the vit C and my niacinamide product to act as a buffer.I'd be interested to hear other's thoughts on this. Hope this helps. We are all humans, of course, but still this is kind of suspicious and makes me question the credibility of the source. While on the surface it seems to make sense, there are several issues with it. Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. Therefore it is completely fine with Niacinamide. We recommend you apply The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum in the morning and your Vitamin C product in the evening. Niacinamide, or as us normal people call it vitamin B3, is a real skincare superstar that has had so many studies and has so many skin benefits that we have to warn you that this "geeky details" description will not be short.. Just as an intro a couple of thing about the stuff itself: it's a water-soluble vitamin that usually comes in white powder form. I got this info from Stratia customer support but it’s all over reddit and science based skincare blogs if you dig a bit. I currently use The Ordinary’s Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% and just bought Sunday Riley CEO wanting to add it to my routine. It also prevents the collection of plaque in the arteries of the heart. How niacinamide helps skin. Niacinamide is easily dissolved in water and is well-absorbed when taken by mouth. SPF is the most confusing thing ever created in skin care regulations. He's also stated things that are very incorrect about SPF. Any help is appreciated. How would I go about using Sunday Riley’s CEO and where in my routine(after oil based serums, before moisturizer etc?) Niacinamide absorbs best close to pH 6. SPF 20 is not twice as protective as SPF10 – it’s about 2-3 per cent more protective. We recommend you apply The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum in the morning and your Vitamin C … Vitamin B3occurs naturally in 2 forms: niacin (also called nicotinic acid) and niacinamide (also called nicotinamide). Plus, it has wrinkle-smoothing peptides in addition to antioxidant-rich algae extract. Hello, I use niacinamide with Kiehl's and Verso eye serum, am I gonna die? If anybody knows of any, please do let us know! Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 (also known as niacin) that is, "a wonder ingredient with a multitude of benefits," says Chicago dermatologist Emily Arch, MD. We do not recommend combining Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid, Ethylated L-Ascorbic Acid or Vitamin C Derivatives) with Niacinamide with Direct or Ethylated Vitamin C, and Vitamin C Derivatives due to the formation of a salt complex that has the potential to reduce the integrity of both compounds. Which The Ordinary Vitamin C Should I Choose? Niacinamide helps even out my skin tone and makes my skin take on a healthy glow. Vitamin C Niacinamide Zinc Serum. This is also true of mixing vitamin C and B3 in the same cream or serum. Niacinamide is a skincare ingredient worthy of your attention and your skin will love you for using it. Sodium ascorbyl phosphate is approximately twice as effective as L-ascorbic acid, the most commonly used form if Vitamin C used in skin care, which is not utilized as well by the skin. Niacin and niacinamide are important nutrients to your body. From my understanding this does not mean that niacinamide and vitamin C cancel each other out or interfere with each other. When I first began studying nutritional therapies in the early 1970s, vitamin C was my favorite nutrient. You can still use both of these ingredients, however, it's important you apply them at alternate times. I have read not to mix Niacinamide with topical vitamin C and was not sure if this would cause an adverse effect. There is so much contradicting information on this topic that it's really hard to find out the truth. Niacinamide, also known as nicotinamide, is the active form of niacin (also known as vitamin B3 or nicotinic acid). This article explains what niacinamide is, its benefits, uses and potential side effects. This fear is only increased by the fact that vitamin C is an extremely finicky ingredient to work with, making it … I believe this misconception is due to vitamin C (specifically L-Ascorbic acid) needing to be at a certain pH level in order to be effective-- hence the 'acid' part in LAA. They are both soluble in water, which means that your body will simply get rid of the excess through urine, and will not store it. Second, what about all existing skincare products that combine niacinamide and vitamin C (please see the comment section at Futurederm for examples). Vitamin C in L-AA (acidic form) is effective at around pH 3.5. At a low PH they vitamin C & B3 exchange an electron and form a weak bond. RELATED READ: 3 Reasons to Consider Adding B3 (Niacinamide) to Your Skincare Routine Now, the million dollar question: Can you mix vitamin C and niacinamide? But, when you peek behind the curtain, you’ll see them get on like a house on fire. Niacinamide does not do well at ph of 3.8 which is acidic. You might be surprised to know that it's also possible to apply your vitamin C serum and acid together, at the same time. Can you use niacinamide with vitamin C? There’s a lot of confusion as to whether these two superstar ingredients cancel each other out when applied at the same time. So the cream or serum must use a form of vitamin C that works well at a higher PH. To amplify niacinamide’s brightening effects, this serum contains Dermapep, a patented peptide formula that is super effective in reducing discolorations. A mattifying treatment that reduces shine and improves skin clarity, zinc is combined with witch hazel and willow bark and provides skin-clearing benefits while vitamin c, niacinamide and hyaluronic acid [more] [more] brighten and hydrate. I have been using TO niacinamide + zinc and love the results. If you are worried about it, use the Vit C in the AM, Niacinamide in the PM. “There is an old study from almost 60 years ago that showed that when these two products were used together under … I combine Nia and Tetra C all the time by means of product layering. To rest your fears at least a little bit, most articles that claim that niacinamide and vitamin C can’t work together reference studies from over 40 years ago, meaning a lot more research has been done since then. According to [this article] (http://kindofstephen.com/can-you-use-niacinamide-and-vitamin-c-ascorbic/) mixing Vitamin C and Niacinamide is a low risk, virtually not bother worrying about. if no -> dead. Why niacinamide is one of my favorite nutrients. In general, Niacinamide should not be combined with very acidic (pH below 4) or alkaline (pH above 7) products. Among a handful of other amazing skincare ingredients such as retinol and vitamin C, niacinamide is a standout because of its versatility … In their official Regiment Guide, the Ordinary suggests avoiding using vitamin C and niacinamide at the same time. Some niacinamide products have helped me with fading sun spots, but Vitamin C does the heavy lifting for that sort of thing. I've heard others saying it's very dangerous. We use a very stable and bioavailable form of vitamin C called sodium ascorbyl phosphate. In fact, using an acid right before vitamin C could actually ENHANCE your results. Based on the available evidence, well-studied options like prescription retinoids (and sunscreen!) Vitamin B3is also a precursor to NAD phosphate (NADP), which functions as a coenzyme in oxidation-reduction reactions. It's the Ascorbic Acid form of Vitamin C (which is the "pure" form) that doesn't mix well with Niacinamide. It’s a form of vitamin B—B3, to be specific. It converts to niacin which can cause flushing redness in sensitive skin. Use the Vit C first, then followed by the Niacianmide. They’re like a primer plus extra credit. Product name: Skinlex 10% Niacinamide Serum, Extended version Price (range): $13.60 USD / 60 mL (2 oz.) Among a handful of other amazing skin care ingredients such as retinol and vitamin C, niacinamide is a standout because of its versatility for almost any skin care concern and skin type. I've been using something I saw here for a few years and it works great - Vanicream Lite with those two ingredients added (I'd have to check, but I think 16 oz lotion with 6 tablespoons of each powder from lotioncrafters). I actually mix the l-ascorbic acid powder with their Reservatrol and Ferrulic acid but will be more careful in future and might move to another form of vitamin C. I dunno about the niacinamide powder though, given their niacinamide and zinc solution is less than $10 I don’t see the point. All these factors combined make me question the reputability of the article, and IMHO it should not be relied on when doing your research. Niacinamide is a water-soluble form of vitamin B3 that boasts a wide array of skin benefits. PS. Niacin = facial flushing and tingling. So unlike alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids, L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and retinoids, it is non-acidic and non-irritating. It’s an anti-aging ingredient that’s effective for keeping the skin hydrated, tackling skin pigmentation, facial redness, and fighting acne. The serum adds glow to your glow with vitamin C, improves the skin texture, and brightens the complexion. Niacinamide—also known as vitamin B3—boasts a long list of perks. Perfect for anyone whose skin hates oils and oily solvents! First, it protects your heart by reducing the amount of bad cholesterol (LDL) in your body. Vitamin C derivatives are the exception, as most have higher pH levels. However, Niacinamide can minimise the benefits of Vitamin C when applied together. Niacinamide is one of the two forms of vitamin B3 — the other being nicotinic acid. Dermatologist Dr Dray on layering vitamin C and niacinamide. The result is skin that is balanced with a decreased appearance of oil and breakouts. If you’re already using a vitamin C in serum form, it’s important to make sure your cleanser isn’t sabotaging the serum’s attempts to give you glow. What the heck is going on here? Third, the author on Futurederm cites very old articles and doesn't go into detail about the research there. As a chemist, I also recommend using acids (L-ascorbic, AHA’s and BHA’s ) in the morning and retinol (such as Ultimate A) and niacinamide at night.. Our latest vitamin C serum, SupremaC+, has been formulated at a skin-friendly pH of around 5.5.This is not considered acidic … So while there seems to be no comprehensive evidence that vitamin C and niacinamide shouldn't be used together, there are also very few sources saying that that is, in fact, safe (the article you linked is the only one I found). The pH would increase regardless of the products you apply since the skin will normalize even if you don't apply other products after, so i won't advice you to over think on that part. It’s a myth that Niacinamide and Vitamin C products can’t be worn together, they actually are quite compatible. Niacinamide increases energy production within our skin cells. Anything more than that may cause skin irritation and should be used inDiscover the amazing benefits of Niacinamide & Vitamin C. 11. This is what causes the flushing and tingling sensation. If you are after the collagen effects of Vitamin C (rather than the exfoliating effects), you can combine magnesium ascorbylphosphate and niacinamide in the same product. Niacinamide and Vitamin C [Routine Help] Routine Help. "I'm sorry you feel that way" wtf, and she has her own company. 1 comment . It can enter the blood–brain barrier (BBB) easily, is nonaddictive, and is devoid of the flush effect of niacin form of vitamin B3. — so I’ve been looking for a replacement ever since. In general, this topic comes up once in a while but we still don't have much real, academic research supporting either side. We’ve got the answer to this big skin care question. L-Ascorbic Acid absorbs best at pHs under 3 - at neutral pHs it has almost no absorption. There is a fear of using vitamin C and niacinamide together because it’s believed that they’ll cancel each other out, rendering both formulas ineffective. Basically-If you want your vitamin C strong and you’re easy going about the finish, you’re used to strong actives, you have skin like iron and you want to look young fast- then choose Vitamin C suspension 23%. Niacinamide is easily dissolved in water and is well-absorbed when taken by mouth. Worst case scenario from this is a reddish face which doesnt look too sexy but the action of it is essentially harmless to the skin. How to layer vitamin C and niacinamide. Challenge is, ain’t nobody who can hold up all that energy. Sometimes oral niacin (taken as a vitamin) causes flushing too. Nia combined with non acidic forms of vitamin C such as Tetra = no problem. , FRSH 1. Anything more than that may cause skin irritation and should be used inDiscover the amazing benefits of Niacinamide & Vitamin C. 11. However the same PH problem exists. It’s the difference between £10 and £10.20 not £10 and £20. Niacin is important to the human body for many reasons. In addition, vitamin B3is involved in brain fun… As I learned more about individual nutrients, magnesium replaced vitamin C at the top of the list, and has remained there ever since. Mixing these two will drag the PH up for the Vit C, and down for the niacinamide, converting it to niacin. This causes flushing of the skin, and reduces their effectiveness. Anecdotally some people report flushing but if no unpleasantness from flushing, you can be confident they are working just as intended. They’re fine in the same routine, they’re not fine in the same formula/bottle for months. Today, vitamin B3 has a wide range of medical uses. New comments cannot be posted and votes cannot be cast, More posts from the SkincareAddiction community, Press J to jump to the feed. Y… Vitamin B3 is a naturally-occurring vitamin found in foods like yeast, meat, fish, milk, eggs, beans, and green vegetables. Eva Naturals Niacinamide Vitamin B3 Serum ingredients explained: Aloe Barbadensis (Organic Aloe) Leaf Juice, Glycerin, Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Emulsifying Wax NF, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Azadirachta Indica (Organic Neem) Seed Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid), Xanthan Gum, Tetrasodium … Niacinamide and Vitamin C. Note! Combined with niacinamide this pH could cause the flushing. Now this ingredient loves action – think of ascorbic acid like Lara Croft, fighting off ageing, dull skin tone, fine lines and more like your life depended on it. Take Niacinamide + Vitamin C: this pair makes an especially powerful combination. A high 10% concentration of this vitamin is supported in the formula by zinc salt of pyrrolidone carboxylic acid to balance visible aspects of sebum activity. I'm interested in how other incorporate the two, (one in AM and one in PM?) Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) Vitamin B3 is found in blood in the form of niacinamide (also known as nicotinamide). This is an issue with niacinamide because when niacinamide mixes with an acid it converts to nicotinic acid which in turn activates epidermal langerhans cells. Vichy Vitamin C serum Both the derms in the videos had high praise for the Vichy vitamin C serum ($28.50) , and so I’m super excited about it. Combined with niacinamide this pH could cause the flushing. Together at 5% B3 they really even skin tone and fade dark spots. Most highly touted moisturizers and SPF products contain high amounts of niacinamide, including 2 that I found after endless vetting, and I LOVE them (CeraVe PM Facial Lotion and Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting SPF 30, FYI). If you are after the exfoliation from Vit C, you need it acidic, and need to apply niacinamide and Vit C (as LAA) separately in your routine. It is temporary but B3 (Niacinamide) is good for rosacea (which I have) and most dermatologists sell a cream with at least 2%. It is primarily available in the form of liquid or gel consistency. Vitamin C and Niacinamide are the Britney and Xtina of skincare. Sometimes oral niacin (taken as a vitamin) causes flushing too. This means that in order for you to be healthy, you need a constant supply of niacinamide or its sister compound. Vitamin B3is a precursor to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD), which plays a role in the electron-transport chain and, consequently, in the synthesis of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the body’s main storage form of energy. For more skincare science, go check out his blog. Take care of your damaged skin with a refreshing Vitamin C serum. As a water-soluble vitamin, it won't dissolve in oil, so you'll typically find it in water-based serums. Ahead, top dermatologists weigh in on why this B vitamin deserves an A+ rating, and share their favorite niacinamide products. My personal stance on this is that I don't have enough education in cosmetic chemistry to judge for myself and thus have to rely on others to explain everything. The niacinamide/vitamin C no-no is still so widely reported despite having been long debunked. L-Ascorbic Acid absorbs best at pHs under 3 - at neutral pHs it has almost no absorption. I’ve been pairing my Super Pure serum with The Ordinary’s Vitamin C 23% suspension with fairly good results. The vitamin C that conflicts with niacinamide is L-Ascorbic Acid, because to effective it requires a PH around 3-3.5 (acidic), while niacinamide requires a PH above 5. Along with niacinamide, this potent serum contains a cocktail of antioxidants—like vitamin B5, C, E, and ferulic acid—making it the perfect first-step in your morning skincare routine. The Ordinary’s Vitamin C Suspension 30% in Silicone uses the most tried and tested skin active form of vitamin C – ascorbic acid. Niacinamide Category: Antioxidant Best time to use: As needed to address pore size, or once daily to balance oily skin What it does: Niacinamide is a relatively new guy on the scene. Niacinamide absorbs best close to pH 6. Vitamin C in L-AA (acidic form) is effective at around pH 3.5. Vitamin E, Ginseng Root Extract, and Curcuma Longa Root Extract improve the skin elasticity and help reduce wrinkles. Topical nicotinamide compared with clindamycin gel in the treatment of inflammatory acne vulgaris. Also known as vitamin B3, is used in most skincare products because it performs multiple functions. You can still use both of these ingredients, however, it's important you apply them at alternate times. So buying a cream or serum with bothe Vitamin C and B3 is better than just one of them but the ph of the product must be at least 5, New comments cannot be posted and votes cannot be cast, More posts from the SkincareAddiction community, Press J to jump to the feed. They don't cancel each other out or anything of that sort. report. Why can´t I now use Vitamin C derivatives with Niacinamide? ReddIt “You may pick a hyaluronic acid product with skincare stars like vitamin C or niacinamide for plump skin, but without parabens, sulfates, alcohol, and other irritating ingredients,” says Dr. Sonia Batra, a dermatologist, and co-host of The Doctors. In the same vein as vitamin C, niacinamide is a powerhouse ingredient. If you're extra worried, you could use the vit C in the morning and the niacinamide at night. Niacinamide is a water-based serum that regulates sebum and minimizes pores. share. You can use them together (one immediately after the other or one AM and one PM) There's a lot of misconception about mixing the two but the main reason why it's suggested to not mix them is because it causes flushing in some people. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is indicated to reduce the appearance of skin blemishes and congestion. At the same time, stable non-acidic forms (for example, Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate or L-Ascorbic Acid) can be applied simultaneously. Thanks! If you are after the collagen effects of Vitamin C (rather than the exfoliating effects), you can combine magnesium ascorbylphosphate and niacinamide in the same product. That is, the LAA will be applied at one point in time, allowed to wait for effect, and the niacinamide applied as part of moisturizer (most of its impact is moisture barrier - and it is potent). With that being said, some actually reputable skincare organisations like Deciem seem to support this idea as well.