For years, Hydroquinone has been used as a skin-lightening agent, but recently the FDA banned its sale without a medical prescription in the United States. Hydroquinone is a known carcinogen, which is not something most of us want in our skincare routine! Yet many of us have discoloration and dark patches. Thank goodness for the latest and greatest alternative - Niacinamide! 

Niacinamide is a naturally occurring substance found in fish, eggs, meat, milk, green vegetables, and some cereals. It's a Vitamin B3 derivative that protects your skin from free radicals and promotes cell turnover, but best of all, it brightens and evens out your skin tone! And that is what we're chatting about in this week's video. So long, hydroquinone... and HELLO Niacinimide!

Niacinamide vs Hydroquinone -

Benefits of Niacinamide

Hydroquinone is now a known carcinogen and is no longer available in the United States in over-the-counter beauty and skincare products. Fortunately, a safer and equally effective ingredient is available to us. Niacinamide!

Niacinamide:

• is a derivative of a B3 vitamin (Niacin)

• protects skin from free radicals

• stimulates cell turnover

• supports collagen production

• brightens and smooths skin

• works at a cellular level from the inside out

• has been shown to lighten dark spots and create a more even skin tone

Niacinamide is a vitamin B3 derivative (Niacin) found naturally in fish, meat, eggs, poultry, green vegetables, fruit, nuts, and some cereals. It is safe for those with sensitive skin and can also be included your regimen while using Retinol, but should not be used on the same day as Retinol. Ferulic Acid can be paired with Niacinamide to ramp up its benefits.

For info on the Niacinamide serum that I use, click HERE!

Final Thoughts...

If you are looking for a serum to help brighten your skin and reduce hyperpigmentation, then Niacinamide (possibly combined with Ferulic Acid) is a great choice for you! This naturally occurring vitamin B3 variant is safe for all skin types and will create smoother more radiant skin while it improves the overall clarity and evenness of your skin tone. I highly recommend it!