Retinol vs Niacinamide
which ingredient is best for you?
You’ve probably have been seeing Niacinamide pop up everywhere recently. This skincare ingredient has been making the rounds on social media and featuring prominently in many recent skincare products!
So, what does Niacinamide do for your skin? And how does it match up to 2020’s favourite, Retinol? Read on to find out more!
What is Niacinamide?
Niacinamide, or Vitamin B3, a vitamin with potent anti-ageing and anti-inflammatory properties to protect against free-radical damage.
It can help improve acne, reduce hyperpigmentation, and improve brightness of skin. It can be used by all skin types and ages, and is especially useful for soothing sensitive skin.
As such, it is often included in skincare products targeting users with sensitive skin, or added to products that potentially have an irritating effect on more sensitive skin to lessen any negative effects.
As consumer demand for minimal skincare routines and anti-pollution, skin barrier-restoring skincare products grow, more brands are starting to add this all-rounder to their skincare lines.
What is Retinol?
Retinol, a form of Vitamin A, is another big ingredient that spiked in popularity in 2020, is known as THE ingredient for anti-ageing.
Retinoids work by increasing the rate of cell turnover as well as boosting collagen and elastin production. It combats signs of ageing like fine lines, wrinkles, and skin texture, reduces acne flare-ups, and fades pigmentation.
However, retinol can be irritating to skin, especially for first-time users– and here is where niacinamide wins out.
Generally, skincare experts recommend starting retinol at a later age, in your early to mid 30s when your skin has begun the ageing process. It may even thin out your skin with micro-irritation, even if you don’t notice any redness.
Retinol also increases your skin’s sensitivity to the sun, and without adequate SPF protection, may cause more damage to your skin in the long run.
Why not both?
Adding a layer of moisturiser with niacinamide or a niacinamide serum a few minutes before applying products with retinol may help to reduce sensitivity and boost anti-ageing effects.
You may also wish to consult a dermatologist before adding retinoids to your skincare routine, especially if your skin is more reactive or you have existing skin conditions like rosacea.
NIACINAMIDE SKIN DEFENCE SERUM
If you have been looking to introduce niacinamide to your skincare routine or to trim down your skincare steps, why not try out our latest launch— the Renaza Niacinamide Skin Defence Serum!
This serum is an overachiever with multiple skin benefits. It is excellent for people with troubled and sensitive skin, which makes it a great anti-ageing serum without the side effects of retinoids.
It is also a hot favourite among consumers who suffer from acne from wearing masks. Its lightweight feel is not hot or stifling compared to cream moisturisers, and is suitable for daytime use.
The Renaza Niacinamide Skin Defence Serum is available at all Renaza outlets. Inquire at your regular branch to purchase!
Marina Bay Link Mall: 6323 3018
Wisma Atria: 6235 3343