Should You Use Retinol or Niacinamide?

Retinol and niacinamide seem to be the buzzwords in skincare at the moment.  Common questions are about which is right for me or if I can use both.  Some people swear by retinol, while others prefer niacinamide.  But what's the difference between retinol and niacinamide?  Both are vitamins that create change in the skin, but retinol is a vitamin A derivative, while niacinamide is vitamin B3, however, they work a  little differently. So, which one should you use? Let's take a closer look.

Retinol

Retinol is a popular skincare ingredient that can help with various skin concerns, such as acne, pigmentation, build-up of dead skin, and fine lines. It works by exfoliating the top layer, which causes the dermis to send a supply of fresh skin to the surface, improving the overall appearance of our skin. 

The biggest downside of retinol is that it can be very drying and irritating because it may remove dead skin cells from the surface faster than the body can get the fresh supply of skin to the surface. 

Be sure to add a retinol product slowly, and do not increase the frequency of use until your skin has adapted. For example, use it two to three times a week and gradually work your way up to daily, if possible.  Ultimately, your skin will tell you if you can increase usage or need to back off. 

The Nakira Skin® Hydrate and Repair Serum is a great option if you are looking to get the benefits of retinol while keeping your skin soft, hydrated, and balanced. It includes hyaluronic acid from plants with natural moisture-retaining properties, aloe vera extract with soothing and healing properties, and jojoba oil to soften, repair, and balance the skin.

Considerations when using retinol are that you shouldn't use it while breastfeeding and/or pregnant. Next, the sun makes retinol inactive; therefore, it is not ideal for applying retinol and then spending time outdoors. Lastly, the rapid exfoliation of the top layer of skin makes you more susceptible to sun damage.  So, make sure you are diligent about applying and reapplying your sunscreen.

Niacinamide

Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3 can be found in many skin care products as it has been proven to help with various concerns, including acne and inflammation. It is also popular for its anti-aging properties, which reduce fine lines or wrinkles, making this an excellent choice if you want a younger-looking complexion! 

Niacinamide is the end-all, be-all of skin care. It differs from retinol in that it works from the inside out.  For example, retinol exfoliates the skin, which prompts the skin to turn over.  On the other hand, niacinamide works in reverse. It works from the inside to increase cellular turnover first and then exfoliation once the skin is ready.  Niacinamide builds ceramides in the skin, which improves the skin's hydration and natural barrier, decreases inflammation, and helps control oil production and pigmentation.  Best of all, it is an excellent ingredient for expectant or breastfeeding mothers. 

My favorite niacinamide product is the Viktoria Deann Rejuvenator! It comes in three strengths, mild, medium, and ultra. It includes other powerhouse ingredients that give results similar to retinol but with a more natural approach to skincare.  I use the medium rejuvenator in the morning and the ultra in the evening.  Don't worry; we will help you determine which one is best for you.

Is Retinol or Niacnamide better for you?

There are a few things to consider when choosing between the two products. Because retinol is the more aggressive of the two, let's discuss cases in which I would typically recommend niacinamide over retinol. 

You Are A Better Fit For Niacinamide If:

• You are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have sensitive skin; these conditions are contraindications for retinol.
• You prefer a more natural approach to skincare where you are not creating trauma to the skin, then niacinamide is a better choice. 
• You primarily work outside or spend a considerable amount of time outside every day.   
•  You have naturally dry or dehydrated skin; retinol can cause excessive dryness. 
• You are receiving frequent skin care treatments, which may be a contraindication for retinol.

If you decide retinol is a better fit, be mindful that you can always switch to niacinamide.  Or you may alternate retinol usage with niacinamide to give your skin a break from retinol while still receiving its benefits.

Retinol and niacinamide are two popular skincare ingredients with many benefits. Both are effective in reducing wrinkles and fine lines, controlling oil production, and evening out pigmentation. However, retinol is more aggressive and can cause dryness or sun sensitivity, while niacinamide works from the inside out to improve cell turnover and hydration. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have sensitive skin or work outdoors often, niacinamide may be a better choice. If you decide retinol is a better fit, be mindful that you can always switch to niacinamide.