How long does it take to see the results of using products containing niacinamide?

As with any new skincare product, you are unlikely to see significant results for several weeks. Although instant effects can be observed, it generally takes 6 to 12 weeks of twice-daily use to see notable results, depending on the severity of your skin issues and the concentration of your product in niacinamide. While most available reports suggest notable improvements after eight weeks of use, there is no precise timeline.

Consistent use is necessary for continuous improvement and maintenance of results.

• Diminishing the inflammatory response: The niacinamide soothes and calms skin prone to inflammation or redness by inhibiting the synthesis of inflammatory mediators, such as prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), IL-6, TNF-α and IL-8, in epidermal keratinocytes through the modulation of pro-inflammatory signalling pathways NF-κB and MAPK.

• Improving the skin barrier function: Nicotinamide can also enhance the structural and functional integrity of the stratum corneum, and reduce transepidermal water loss. Indeed, research shows that niacinamide can increase the synthesis of key components of the lipid barrier, such as ceramides, other fractions of sphingolipids (glucosylceramide and sphingomyelin), free fatty acids and cholesterol.

• Attenuating skin ageing: The niacinamide stimulates the synthesis of collagen and that of epidermal proteins (keratin, filaggrin and involucrin), and reduces the activity of metalloproteinases and elastase in dermal fibroblasts, enzymes that degrade collagen and elastin fibres. It thus helps to increase skin elasticity and to reverse signs of ageing, such as wrinkles. Nicotinamide being a precursor of the antioxidant NADPH, it also has anti-glycation effects, thus preventing the dull complexion of ageing skin.

• Reducing acne lesions: Thanks to its potential anti-inflammatory, sebostatic and antibacterial role, the nicotinamide would play a part in the topical formulation of anti-acne treatments. It would cause the regression of retentional lesions (blackheads, microcysts) and inflammatory lesions (papules, pustules).

• Reducing the appearance of hyperpigmented spots: Researchers have discovered that niacinamide has the ability to halt the transfer of melanin, which is responsible for skin browning, from the melanocytes located at the base of the epidermis to the neighbouring epidermal skin cells (keratinocytes). Thus, niacinamide helps to decrease hyperpigmentation and gradually lighten the skin after prolonged use.

Our usage tests are based on a consumer self-assessment over 4 to 6 weeks during which the participants used one of our niacinamide treatments. Our unifying serum has been tested to provide a visibly more even complexion in 4 weeks of application. It contains 12% niacinamide to help achieve a smoother and clearer skin texture.

With a formulation based on niacinamide, caffeine and cornflower hydrosol, thetinted under-eye concealer works in two ways by instantly covering the pigmentation of dark circles, while minimising their appearance over time. After 28 days of use, panellists find that their eye contour is more hydrated and even, with less visible dark circles and bags.

Primarily composed of 5% caffeine, 5% niacinamide, and 2% Albizia Julibrissin extract, the eye serum targets dark circles and puffiness around the eye contour. The serum's light texture penetrates quickly, leaving the eye contour area more hydrated and providing a soothing effect to the skin after daily use for 42 days.