Niacinamide and Zinc: The Perfect Combination for Sebum Regulation and Acne

 🔬 Niacinamide and Zinc: The Perfect Combination for Sebum Regulation and Acne

If you have oily or acne-prone skin, you are probably familiar with Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) and Zinc as effective ingredients in skincare products. These two actives are especially effective at controlling sebum production and preventing blemishes. Products like The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% are very popular because of their efficacy.

In this post, we explain how Niacinamide and Zinc work on a cellular level, why they are especially effective together, and present a comprehensive skincare routine including product recommendations from Dermaviduals, a brand known for personalized skincare concepts.


🧴 How Niacinamide Regulates Sebum Production (and Its Cellular Effects)

Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B3 with multiple benefits for the skin. It works not only on the surface but also influences the activity of keratinocytes and sebocytes (epidermal and sebaceous gland cells) at the cellular level.

🧬 Cellular and physiological activity:

  • Modulation of gene expression: Niacinamide reduces the expression of genes related to inflammation and lipid production, such as PPAR-γ, thereby decreasing sebaceous gland activity.

  • Increase in ceramide synthesis: It stimulates keratinocytes to produce ceramides, strengthening the skin barrier.

  • Boosts NAD⁺ production: Inside cells, Niacinamide raises levels of NAD⁺ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide), an essential molecule for energy metabolism and DNA repair, aiding skin regeneration.

Visible benefits:

  • Reduces excess skin oil

  • Decreases inflammation

  • Improves skin hydration and elasticity


🔬 Zinc: A Mineral that Soothes Skin from Within

Zinc, often found as Zinc PCA or Zinc Gluconate in skincare, has profound effects on the skin, including enzymatic and hormonal processes.

🧬 Cellular and physiological activity:

  • Inhibition of 5α-reductase: This enzyme converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which stimulates sebaceous glands. Zinc blocks this enzyme, reducing hormonally driven sebum production.

  • Antimicrobial action: Zinc directly affects membranes of bacteria like Cutibacterium acnes, inhibiting their growth.

  • Cell membrane stabilization: Acts as a cofactor for antioxidant enzymes (e.g., superoxide dismutase), helps neutralize free radicals, and reduces oxidative stress in cells.

Visible benefits:

  • Shrinks pores

  • Reduces skin shine and inflammation

  • Prevents acne breakouts


✅ Niacinamide + Zinc: A Smart Combination

Combining these two ingredients offers synergistic effects:

  • Controls sebum production via multiple cellular pathways

  • Strengthens the skin barrier and immune defenses

  • Reduces inflammation and bacterial colonization

This multifactorial approach explains the effectiveness of products like The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, especially for mild to moderate acne, enlarged pores, and excess shine.


🧼 Skincare Routine for Oily and Acne-Prone Skin

Here’s a simple protocol focused on physiological balance, sebum control, and blemish prevention:

🌅 Morning

  • Gentle cleanser
    Examples: CeraVe Foaming Cleanser, La Roche-Posay Effaclar Gel
    Purpose: Removes excess oil without damaging the skin barrier.

  • Astringent toner (optional)
    Example: Paula’s Choice BHA
    Purpose: Helps cleanse pores and reduce superficial inflammation.

  • Niacinamide + Zinc
    Example: The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
    Purpose: Acts on sebaceous glands and epidermal cells.

  • Lightweight, oil-free moisturizer
    Examples: Neutrogena Hydro Boost, Sallve Antiatrito
    Purpose: Prevents cellular dehydration that can trigger excess sebum.

  • Matte-finish sunscreen
    Examples: Anthelios Airlicium, Bioré Aqua Rich
    Purpose: Protects skin from free radicals and UV-induced inflammation.

🌙 Evening

  • Facial cleansing (as in the morning)

  • Complementary actives on alternating days:

    • Salicylic Acid (e.g., The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2%)

    • Mild retinoids (e.g., Differin with Adapalene)

⚠️ Avoid simultaneous use of Niacinamide and strong acids.

  • Niacinamide + Zinc (on acid-free days)

  • Soothing moisturizer
    Examples: Cicaplast Baume B5, Bepantol Derma
    Contains: Panthenol, Centella, or Madecassoside to promote cell regeneration.


🧖‍♂️ Weekly Extras (1–2 times per week)

  • Green or white clay mask: Detoxifies and regulates sebaceous gland activity.

  • Gentle chemical exfoliation (AHA/BHA): Promotes cell renewal if your skin tolerates it.
    Example: The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% toner


🌿 Product Recommendations from Dermaviduals

For tailored care, Dermaviduals offers modular products designed to address your skin’s specific needs.

  • Zinc Liposome Serum
    Properties: Antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, promotes wound healing, strengthens skin barrier.
    Actives: Liposomal dispersion with highly enriched phosphatidylcholine and zinc sulfate.
    Use: Apply sparingly to affected areas or as an addition to a DMS® base cream.
    Suitable for: Impure, inflamed skin, acne, keratinization disorders.

For more info and orders, visit CaliforniaSkin Wiesbaden.


⚠️ Final Tips

  • If 10% Niacinamide causes irritation, try products with 5% concentration or use it on alternate days.

  • Results usually appear after 4 to 6 weeks of consistent use.

  • Avoid combining multiple potent actives simultaneously (e.g., Niacinamide + Vitamin C + Salicylic Acid) to prevent irritation.

With a consistent, personalized routine addressing both surface and cellular skin processes, you can achieve healthier, balanced, and acne-free skin.

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