WHY NIACINAMIDE IS THE INGREDIENT TO KNOW

OK, so what actually is niacinamide?
'Niacinamide, also known as Vitamin B3, is an active ingredient renowned for its multiple benefits on the skin. It contributes to balancing visible sebum (oil) production and helps maintain a healthy skin barrier,' says Chief Scientific Officer for The Ordinary, Prudvi Kaka. (If you're unfamiliar with what a skin barrier is, it basically keeps all the good stuff like moisture in and the bad stuff like pollution out, preventing dehydration and environmental damage.)

What skin type is it best suited to?
'Niacinamide is best suited to oily skin types and for those who are looking to address signs of congestion, such as enlarged pores and visible shine, and can be used morning and night as part of your daily routine.'

Which other skincare products work best with it?
'The 100% Niacinamide Powder can be mixed into any water-based treatment (provided that the pH of the base is between 5.0 and 7.0). Some of these include Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA, Buffet + Copper Peptides 1%, Matrixyl 10% + HA and Argireline Solution 10%. We don’t recommend combining niacinamide with vitamin C.' (Top tip: try using vitamin C on alternating days instead to avoid irritation.)

How exactly does the 100% Niacinamide Powder work?
'We wanted to offer a DIY experience that allows everyone to personalise how they use this ingredient based on their preference and skin type. The powder allows you to combine the benefits of niacinamide with the benefits of other products, so you can address multiple skin concerns at once.'

Ready for your new-and-improved hydrating skincare routine...?

Step 1: Cleanse
The most important step in your routine to keep your skin looking squeaky clean always starts with a good cleanse (every morning and night!). For a facial wash that’s gentle on the skin but extra hydrating, use the Ordinary Squalane Cleanser to remove your makeup and daily grime while also helping to lock in moisture so your skin stays hydrated over the winter months. Simply rub the cleanser in your palms so that it warms and melts into an oil, massage over your skin and then rinse it off with warm water.

 

Step 2: Boost
To use the new 100% Niacinamide Powder, you can create your very own skincare formula by mixing a quarter scoop (using the spoon provided) with a water-based treatment in the palm of your hand. For instance, if it's hydration you're after, mix Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 or Buffet + Copper Peptides 1% (a lightweight, anti-ageing serum containing hyaluronic acid and peptides) with a quarter scoop of 100% Niacinamide Powder to give your skin a moisture boost; the combo of hyaluronic acid and niacinamide will help your skin retain moisture, reducing dryness. Simply mix it up in your hands and apply to the face in the morning and evening.

 

Step 3: Moisturise
Finally, use The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA, an everyday moisturiser, as the last step in your hydrating skincare routine. With hyaluronic acid (that’s the molecule that can hold up to 1,000 times its own weight in water, FYI) and natural moisturising factors to keep the outer layer of your skin protected, your face will feel ready for anything the day throws at it!