Can Niacinamide Clear Up Acne Scars? Here’s What You Need to Know

Ken Morgan | Posted on August 8, 2024 |

Acne is a widespread skin condition affecting 50 million in the United States annually, frequently leaving scars behind. These scars can be upsetting and affect how you feel about yourself. Many people are searching for effective scar treatment options, and niacinamide is one component that has received a lot of attention. But, does niacinamide help with acne scars?

What are acne scars?

Acne scars form as the skin heals after an acne outbreak. When the skin is damaged, the body produces collagen to help restore it. If too much or too little collagen is produced, several types of scars might emerge:

Atrophic Scars: These indented scars appear as little depressions on the skin. The most common types are ice pick scars, boxcar scars, and rolling scars.
Hypertrophic Scars: These are elevated scars that form when the body produces an excessive amount of collagen during healing.
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): These are dark spots left on the skin after acne has healed. They are not true scars and are the result of too much melanin.

What is Niacinamide?

Niacinamide, often called vitamin B3 or nicotinamide, is a water-soluble vitamin found in many meals and cosmetic products. It has gained recognition for its ability to improve skin health, including its potential benefits for treating acne scars.

How does niacinamide help with acne scars?

Niacinamide for acne scars offers several benefits:

Regulates Sebum Production: Excessive oil production is one of the leading causes of acne. Niacinamide helps regulate sebum levels, thereby reducing the likelihood of clogged pores and new acne formation
Reduces Inflammation: One of niacinamide’s key benefits is its anti-inflammatory properties. It helps calm the skin and reduce redness, particularly for those dealing with post-acne inflammation.
Boosts Collagen Production: Niacinamide helps with scarring by stimulating collagen production. This can improve skin texture and elasticity, crucial for treating atrophic scars by filling in indentations and smoothing the skin.
Improves Skin Barrier Function: Niacinamide boosts ceramide formation, which enhances the skin’s natural barrier function. A thicker skin barrier helps maintain moisture and protects against external stresses, resulting in a more even skin tone and texture.
Brightens Hyperpigmentation: For acne scars that are darker than the surrounding skin (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation), niacinamide can help lighten these areas. It inhibits melanin production, which can gradually reduce dark spots and uneven skin tone.

How to use niacinamide for acne scars?

To maximize the benefits of niacinamide, consider the following tips:

Choose the Right Product: Niacinamide has various formulations, including serums, creams, and moisturizers. Serums with a higher concentration of niacinamide (around 5-10%) are often recommended for treating acne scars.
Apply Consistently: Include niacinamide in your everyday skincare routine for the best effects. Apply it in the morning and evening, following cleansing and before moisturizing.
Patch Test First: Before using any new product, perform a patch test to ensure you don’t have any adverse reactions.
Combine with Other Ingredients: Niacinamide pairs nicely with other skincare components like hyaluronic acid, retinoids, and antioxidants. However, when combined with strong active ingredients such as vitamin C, it may cause discomfort in some people.
Be Patient: Improvements in skin texture and scars take time. While niacinamide can show results within a few weeks, significant changes in acne scars may take several months of consistent use.

What are the side effects of using niacinamide for acne scars?

The majority of people generally accept niacinamide, but some may experience minor side effects. Here’s what to watch out and see if niacinamide is good for acne scars:

Redness: Some people may notice redness in the area where niacinamide is applied. This is usually mild and temporary.
Irritation: In some cases, niacinamide can cause irritation, including itching or a burning sensation. This is often due to sensitivity or using a product with a high concentration of niacinamide.
Dryness: Niacinamide might make the skin feel dry or tight, especially if used in combination with other active ingredients that can be drying.
Allergic Reactions: Though rare, some people might have an allergic reaction to niacinamide, resulting in rash, swelling, or severe irritation. If you notice these symptoms, stop using the product and consult a dermatologist.
Increased Sensitivity: Niacinamide can sometimes increase the skin’s sensitivity, making it more prone to reactions with other skincare products.

To reduce these adverse effects, begin with a lower concentration of niacinamide and gradually raise the dosage. Always run a patch test before utilizing a new product substantially. If you are experiencing chronic or severe side effects, see a dermatologist for help.

Additional Treatments for Acne Scars

While niacinamide is a helpful part of a skincare routine, it might not be enough for everyone, especially if you have severe scars. Here are some other treatments you might consider:

Retinoids: These help renew skin cells and boost collagen, making them effective for treating acne scars.
Chemical Peels: These remove the top layer of skin to enhance texture and reduce the appearance of scarring.
Microneedling: This treatment employs microscopic needles to encourage collagen formation and can help with atrophic scars.
Laser Treatments: Different types of laser therapy can target specific scars, helping to rejuvenate the skin and make scars less noticeable.

Yes, you can use niacinamide to treat acne scars

Acne scars can be upsetting, but niacinamide might help improve them. This vitamin B3 derivative helps control oil, reduce redness, boost collagen, and lighten dark spots. Studies show it can make your skin look better over time. However, it might not work for everyone, especially with severe scars. Other therapies, including as retinoids, chemical peels, microneedling, and laser therapy, may also be beneficial. For the greatest results, consult a dermatologist.