Niacinamide is considered the superstar of skincare, due to its multi-functional benefits which are well celebrated by the community. As discussed in our previous post, Niacinamide has been proven to reduce acne breakouts, improve pigmentation, control oiliness, and alleviate wrinkles and other signs of ageing with concentrations between 2% and 5%.

Will it be okay to use 10% Niacinamide?

Various research had proven that Niacinamide does an amazing job at low concentrations. However, we only see more than 10% Niacinamide products from different brands in the market these days, not less. To date, no research shows that 10% strength outperforms lower concentrations when it comes to Niacinamide skincare.

Putting the issue aside, we decided to look at the review section for popular 10% Niacinamide serums, and surprisingly, positive reviews outweigh the negatives. The majority seem to be enjoying the results from 10% of Niacinamide products. But what about skin irritation?

10% Niacinamide & Irritation

Here's an interesting finding from the 31-page Final Report of the Safety Assessment of Niacinamide and Niacin by the American College of Toxicology (2005).

In several Human Repeat Insult Patch Tests (HRIPT), subjects were asked to use a moisturizer containing 0%, 2%, 10% and 20% Niacinamide, 3 times per week, for 3 weeks. The formulations were sealed neat to the skin under semi-occlusive and occlusive patch conditions. Following the removal of the patch, the skin was graded for signs of irritation. The studies concluded that Niacinamide at levels up to 20%, does not induce significant skin irritation.

However, the reliability and validity of these studies may be questionable as they were generated by Procter & Gamble, the multinational giant that owns Niacinamide-loving brands like Olay & SK-II. Then again, all countries consider Niacinamide a safe cosmetic ingredient as it has no restricted concentration in any country thus far - it's perfectly legal to sell it at 20% or much higher.

The Role of Supporting Ingredients

Not all people experience irritation from 10% Niacinamide skincare, or else it wouldn't be the most popular percentage at present. Most of these 10% Niacinamide products are not created equally. It all comes down to formulary excellence which means; the use of other supporting ingredients and technologies in producing the best Niacinamide products.

For example, a 10% Niacinamide serum with low-grade Niacinamide dissolved in a high concentration of denatured alcohol, loaded with fragrance and colourant, will certainly be more irritating than a 10% Niacinamide serum formulated with soothing ingredients.

10% Niacinamide with Soothing Ingredients

Here are some 10% Niacinamide formulations honestly presented by Worthee Cosmetics, magnified with unique supporting ingredients to target different skin concerns, just for you.

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is the top-strength vitamin and mineral blemish formula that incredibly minimizes pores, reducing the appearance of skin blemishes and pore congestion. This calming formula is impressively fast-absorbing and suitable for all skin types, particularly beneficial for oily, acne-prone skin or anyone concerned about enlarged pores.

 

Minimalist 10% Niacinamide + Zinc is a soothing aloe-based formula that contains pure 10% Niacinamide that is clinically proven to promote protein synthesis, reduce melanin concentration and improve skin complexion in 2 weeks. This oil-free lightweight serum coupled with Zinc will help balance sebum activity and reduce inflammation, leaving smooth textured skin with no sticky residue. This is a perfect serum for anyone looking for a functional Niacinamide serum dissolved in soothing Aloe Vera juice.

Geek & Gorgeous B-Bomb 10% Niacinamide Serum is uniquely formulated with absorption-helper, Sarcosine, it will deliver paramount Niacinamide that gets to the root cause of imperfections. Enhanced with the existence of Zinc, it would effectively eradicate concerns with pore size, blemishes, excessive oiliness, roughness, uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation. Formulated for all skin types, including Niacinamide beginners to achieve overall healthier, radiant, and more resilient skin.

Skinlex 10% Niacinamide Serum is enriched with 4% N-acetyl glucosamine, the best partner of Niacinamide, and natural Licorice Extract, this serum actively repairs sun damage and fades age spots by limiting melanosome transfer. It also contains Hyaluronic Acid and Panthenol (vitamin B5) to hold moisture and improve skin barrier hydration. Plus, this formula is made with ultra-soothing Allantoin and Willow Bark essence to comfort redness and calm signs of sensitivity. This impressively fast-absorbing, suitable for all skin types, particularly beneficial for oily, acne-prone skin or anyone with a concern for enlarged pores.

Still unsure which Niacinamide you should choose? Drop us a message describing your skin type and skin concerns here, and we are ready to help. :)

 

Reference

Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel (2005). Final report of the safety assessment of niacinamide and niacin. International journal of toxicology, 24 Suppl 5, 1–31. https://doi.org/10.1080/10915810500434183