Niacinamide

The multitasking ingredient.

What it does

Vitamin B3. It regulates sebum, supports ceramide production and interrupts the transfer of pigment to the skin's surface — which is why one ingredient shows up in blemish, pore and brightening products alike.

How to use it

Five to ten per cent is the useful range. Morning or evening, on damp skin, under moisturiser. Above twelve per cent most people get flushing rather than faster results.

Pairs well with

Hyaluronic Acid Holds water in the upper layers so the skin looks plumper by morning. Read more
Ceramides Rebuild the lipid layer that keeps moisture in and irritants out. Read more
Zinc PCA Keeps sebum in check without stripping. Read more

Careful with

Avoid layering directly with a strong vitamin C in the same minute — not because of the old myth, but because the pH of each formula works against the other. Split them between morning and evening.