Niacinamide, the active ingredient to diminish brown spots.

Pellagra Preventive), niacinamide is part of the water-soluble B group vitamins with antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.

It is essential to supply the body with it through diet as it synthesizes only a tiny amount. Niacinamide is naturally present in cereals, legumes, tea, coffee, and meat (liver, offal). Its role is crucial to the body: niacinamide is involved in the production of NAD and NADP, essential coenzymes recognized as energy transfer molecules.

In a cosmetic treatment, this vitamin is multi-functional. It caters to mature skin due to its antioxidant propertiesand its ability to stimulate collagen synthesis. It is also found in treatments for combination to oily skin, as it helps to regulate sebum, reducing the occurrence of imperfections. Lastly, it is a valuable ally for dry and dehydrated skin: it promotes lipid productionand restores the hydrolipidic film.

Thehyperpigmentation is the dermatological term used to describe the persistent spots that appear on the skin's surface. This phenomenon occurs as a result of a disruption in the pigmentation process: themelanin, the pigment responsible for the skin's natural coloration, is overproduced in certain areas. The spots that then appear vary in size and affect the uniformity of the complexion. Spots related to hyperpigmentation can be categorized into three groups:

• themelasma caused by hormonal imbalances;

• the lentigo associated with excessive sun exposure;

• thepost-inflammatory hyperpigmentation which results from an overproduction of melanin following inflammation (injuries, burns, blemishes, acne outbreaks).

Take note: The use of certain perfumes and the intake of certain medicationssuch as oral contraceptives, antimalarial drugs, and imipraminescan also be causes of hyperpigmentation.