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*Feel like you need a dictionary every time you look at the ingredient list of a beauty product? Still unsure of the difference between retinol and retinoids? What about the unique benefits of vitamins B, C, and E? Are alpha and beta hydroxy acids the same thing? The skincare aisle can be overwhelming, but you don’t need a PhD in cosmetic chemistry to navigate it. With expert help, The AEDITION is demystifying and simplifying the beauty industry — [one label at a time](https://aedit.com/aedition/category/read-the-label).*

Vitamin B3, also known as niacinamide and nicotinamide, is a skincare stalwart thanks to its plethora of skin-boosting benefits. Not only does it play well with other active ingredients, but it is often recommended to address everything from acne to wrinkles for just about any skin type. So, how does niacinamide work, and what’s the best way to incorporate it into your skincare routine? The AEDITION asks the experts. 

## **What Is Niacinamide?**
Niacinamide is derived from vitamin B3 and is a water-soluble vitamin that is not naturally produced by the body. Instead, it has to be consumed orally or applied topically. While vitamin B3 is often found in foods like fish, grains, avocado, mushrooms, and green peas, a diet rich in the vitamin may not provide the same benefits as a topical product. 

Because the body does not produce niacin itself, the multitasker is best supplemented through both [a proper diet](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-diet-for-healthy-beautiful-skin) *and* [skincare](https://aedit.com/aedition/category/skincare). “[It is] used in skincare for its soothing, brightening, and skin-strengthening benefits,” says [Joshua Zeichner, MD](http://www.zeichnerdermatology.com/), a board certified dermatologist in New York City. “It is the ultimate chameleon of skincare, as it can be a benefit for all skin types and almost all skin needs.” 

## **The Topical Benefits of Niacinamide**
While [many skincare ingredients](https://aedit.com/aedition/category/read-the-label) are known for multitasking, niacinamide might take the cake. It is known to:

- Control oil production 
- Improve barrier function
- Boost collagen production
- Thwart abnormal pigmentation  

“It's known to help with oil control, increase ceramide synthesis for skin barrier reinforcement, have anti-inflammatory properties, aid with [acne](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-treat-hormonal-acne-body-acne-cystic-acne-whiteheads-blackheads), fade [hyperpigmentation](https://aedit.com/aedition/what-its-like-to-treat-hyperpigmentation-with-skincare-cosmetic-treatments), and boost collagen production to fill in wrinkles,” explains Tyler Gaul, founder of [Protocol](https://protocol-lab.com/). Because it is often delivered in low concentrations, it is gentle enough for sensitive skin (more on that later!) but potent enough to address a host of skincare woes. 

## **The Best Candidates for Niacinamide**
Often ranking high on ‘must-try’ lists alongside mainstays like topical [vitamin A](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-vitamin-a-retinol-retinoids-in-skincare) (read: retinol and retinoids) and [vitamin C](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-topical-vitamin-c-in-skincare), niacinamide has an it-factor the others don’t: a slim chance of irritation. So, whether you’re currently dealing with breakouts in your teenage years or grew up using a Walkman and are starting to notice a few lines here and there, incorporating a product with niacinamide into your regimen can go a long way toward healthier skin.   

## **How to Add Niacinamide to Your Routine**
As we further dive into the pros and cons of an array of skincare ingredients, it’s easy to feel spoilt for choice — especially when many overlap in benefits. This is why understanding what the combinations can work wonders (or, on the contrary, cause irritation) is so important. “Niacinamide plays well with most actives,” explain Susan Yara and Ben Bennett, the founders of [Naturium](https://naturium.com/). “It’s great paired with [acids](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-topical-alpha-hydroxy-acids-in-skincare), retinol, and vitamin C.” 

The Naturium line is full of potent pairings, like the dynamic duo of niacinamide and zinc in the [Niacinamide Serum 12% Plus Zinc 2%](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fnaturium.com%2Fcollections%2Fbest-sellers%2Fproducts%2Fniacinamide-serum-12-plus-zinc-2). “We paired our niacinamide with Zinc PCA, a derivative of the natural moisturizing factor in the skin, to further reduce skin shine while increasing skin’s moisture content,” Yara and Bennett share. “Zinc PCA also helps stabilize your skin’s natural acid mantle thus balancing your skin’s pH.”

Whether in a serum (we’re fans of the [StriVectin Super-C Retinol Brighten & Correct Vitamin C Serum](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.strivectin.com%2Fsuper-c-serum)), a cream (the [Protocol Hyaluronic Acid & Niacinamide Hydration Cream](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fprotocol-lab.com%2Fcollections%2Fskincare-renewing-line%2Fproducts%2Fhyaluronic-acid-niacinamide-hydration-cream) is a lifesaver in the colder months), or a cleanser (try the [Naturium Niacinamide Cleansing Gelée 3%](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fnaturium.com%2Fproducts%2Fniacinamide-cleansing-gelee-3)), the ingredients comes in a variety of forms making it easy to incorporate in the morning, evening, or both. Consider your [skin type](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-fitzpatrick-skin-types) and factor in your skin's needs when choosing the niacin-powered product for you. 

## **Finding the Right Niacinamide Product**
The most significant factor to consider when looking for a niacinamide-powered product is the concentration. “If a company doesn't disclose the concentration of their active ingredients, it's usually because there isn't a significant amount included,” Gaul explains. “That said, over five or six percent does not show increased therapeutic benefit and can lead to increased occurrence of adverse effects (though those are very few).”

If you’re concerned about large pores and more advanced signs of aging, a higher concentration may be beneficial — but users should be aware of the so-called ‘niacin flush.’ “Not all niacinamide is created equal and can often result in skin flushing,” Yara and Bennett explain. The redness, often appearing as flushing or blushing, is harmless, and tolerance can be developed over time. If it persists, reach for a lower dosage or check the brand's credentials for further information. “At Naturium, we formulate with high quality, non-flushing niacinamide,” they note. 

## **The Takeaway**
While no one skincare ingredient [can do it all](https://aedit.com/aedition/aesthetic-skin-aging-concerns-skincare-cannot-treat), niacinamide comes close for those who wish to improve skin tone and texture. If you’re looking to add something to your arsenal that complements what you’re already using while also battling acne, pigmentation, and wrinkles (to name a few), a niacin-infused product might fit the bill. 

*All products featured are independently selected by our editors, however, AEDIT may receive a commission on items purchased through our links.*

AEDITION complexion perfection-min

Beauty Collection | The AEDITION

Beauty

Vitamin B3, also known as niacinamide, is a dynamo ingredient that can tackle acne, pigmentation, and wrinkles. Here’s what the experts have to say about this jack of all trades.

Guide To Topical Niacinamide, Vitamin B3 In Skincare

Read The Label: All Of Your Niacinamide Questions Answered

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We all know that the [quality of sleep](https://aedit.com/aedition/sleeping-better-after-cosmetic-surgery-aesthetic-procedures) we’re getting each night is directly related to our overall health and wellbeing. But there are a number of disorders that can cause poor sleep, and many people are unsure of how to resolve their issues for more restful slumber.

You may be inclined to head to your primary care doctor or a sleep specialist to get to the root of the problem, but there’s another provider who you may be surprised to learn can help — your dentist. [According to The American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM)](https://www.aadsm.org/for_patients.php#:~:text=Dental%20sleep%20medicine%20is%20an,best%20treatment%20for%20each%20patient.), dental sleep medicine is an area of dental practice that focuses on the use of oral appliance therapy to treat common sleep-disordered breathing conditions (including obstructive sleep apnea), as well as snoring and [teeth grinding](https://aedit.com/aedition/botox-to-treat-tmj-disorders-and-jaw-slimming). 

There are a number of factors to consider before heading to the dentist for help with sleep disorders, and this guide will have you well on your way to the best [beauty sleep](https://aedit.com/aedition/impact-of-beauty-sleep-on-skin-health-nighttime-skincare-products) ever.

## **How Dentistry Can Help You Sleep Better**
The ideal candidate for a dentistry appliance for better sleep is someone who has problems sleeping due to snoring, trouble breathing, and clenching/grinding their teeth. [Stacy Spizuoco, DDS](https://aedit.com/provider/stacy-spizuoco-29347), a New York City-based cosmetic dentist with Onsite Dental and clinical instructor at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine, recommends different types of appliances based on a patient’s sleep issue:

- **For Snoring**: “I recommend an appliance that positions the lower jaw forward,” she says. 
- **For Clenching & Grinding**: She suggests either a hard and soft appliance that “doesn’t allow the patient to lock into it while sleeping.” 
- **For Breathing Issues & Sleep Apnea**: “I’ll schedule a sleep study with a physician to determine severity,” she explains. “If it’s mild, I recommend a device similar to the one for snoring.”

Patients with moderate to severe apnea and other serious breathing issues may need more advanced treatment, including surgeries to remove the uvula, tonsils, adenoids, and turbinates for easier breathing and better sleep.

## **How Quickly You’ll See Results**
Most people will feel relief the very first night, but Dr. Spizuoco likes to give her patients two weeks in order to see how they take to the dental appliance. And while future usage will depend on the patient’s condition, most people will need to use the appliance on a regular basis in order to continue enjoying results.

If the appliance alone is not enough, there are other things that can be done to further help you get better sleep. “If the clenching or teeth grinding is due to stress, I’ll recommend meditation and yoga or removal of the cause of stress if possible,” Dr. Spizuoco explains. “For others that have pain and muscle spasms in the jaw, a physical therapist can help.”

## **The Takeaway**
If you are dealing with sleep issues like snoring, teeth grinding, or mild cases of sleep apnea, you may benefit from using a dental appliance to induce a better night’s sleep. Be sure to consult with your dentist to determine if such treatments are right for you. Sweet dreams!

AEDITION minimalists-min

Wellness Collection | The AEDITION

Wellness

There are several sleep disorders that can be treated by heading to the dentist. Here’s what you need to know.

The Benefits Of Dental Appliances For Better Sleep

Can Your Dentist Help You Sleep Better?

andre-benz-Mn9Fa wQH-M-unsplash

*From that French girl je ne sais quoi to the intricacies of the multi-step Korean skincare routine, the international cosmetic and aesthetic industries are as vast as they are unique. But, thanks to globalization, niche trends now have universal appeal. [In this series](https://aedit.com/aedition/category/going-global), The AEDITION explores geographical markers of beauty and how they influence today's global patient and consumer.*

If you’ve ever taken a trip to Asia, we’re sure you came home with at least one new skincare find that you now covet. Asians are known for their poreless complexions, but different cultures take different approaches to getting there. Japanese women, for example, rely on nourishing, natural ingredients that stand the test of time, while Korean women create a meticulous (and often lengthy) routine made up of the latest technological advances. To complement [our guide to European beauty buys](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-european-skincare-brands-products), we took a virtual trip to explore face and body care offerings. Here are our favorite skincare brands and product recommendations from Asia. 

### **Japan**: SK-II
[SK-II](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sk-ii.com%2F) was developed by Japanese scientists in the 1970s who were interested in the efficacy of naturally derived ingredients. They noticed that, after years of working with fermented yeast, elderly workers at a local sake brewery had hands that were much younger looking than their faces.  
![AEDIT-SKII](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/k4Ve04kN70NR2aboUkwUn/a3d8332957d95e233265b803d174bc5b/AEDIT-SKII.png)
**Product Pick**: The most iconic product is the Facial Treatment Essence that features a 90 percent pitera — the ingredient from the sake brewing process credited with preserving youth — formula. Gently press a few drops of the liquid into your face, neck, and decolletage after cleansing to help even skin tone and texture and enhance radiance. $99, [dermstore.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dermstore.com%2Fproduct_Facial%2BTreatment%2BEssence%2BPitera%2BEssence_58987.htm) 

### **South Korea**: AmorePacific
The Korean skincare juggernaut has gained global appeal for its potent formulas that marry science and nature. [AmorePacific](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fus.amorepacific.com%2F) founder Sung-Hwan Suh discovered Jeju Island in 1979 and began growing and harvesting the brand’s now famed green tea, which contains the antioxidant-rich catechin EGCG and moisture-boosting amino acids. 
![AEDIT-AmorePacific](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/29lpPlFNw954xQMbWoLK2M/53d68a1386e569d12ad4b8dd66f8fb05/AEDIT-AmorePacific.png)
**Product Pick**: While the entire line is infused with green tea, we’re partial to the Color Control Cushion Compact Broad Spectrum SPF 50+ — a skincare-makeup hybrid that protects and perfects. The portable cushion comes in five shades, offers buildable coverage, and provides broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection. $60, [sephora.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fcolor-control-cushion-compact-broad-spectrum-spf-50-P378121) 

### **Singapore**: Purposeful Skincare by Allies 
In 2016, Nicolas Travis founded [Allies of Skin](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Falliesofskin.com%2F) to deliver “supercharged,” ingredient-driven skincare that could effectively treat everything from acne to wrinkles. Four years later, he’s back with a more budget- and gen-Z-friendly collection called [Purposeful Skincare by Allies (PSA)](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fpsaskin.com%2F) that similarly relies on high concentrations of high-quality actives.
![AEDIT-PSA](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/4Nb5wZMdONubezNWvM9ck0/9f2851de2397dafa47bba57af5416dcb/AEDIT-PSA.png)
**Product Pick**: The Midnight Courage Oil treats premature signs of aging *and* nourishes the skin thanks to a potent combination of a two percent retinoid alongside gentle botanical extracts like backuchoil (a natural retinol alternative) and rosehip, baobab, pomegranate, and sunflower oils. $38, [psaskin.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fpsaskin.com%2Fshop%2Fmidnight-courage) 

### **Japan**: Keana Nadeshiko
All hail Amazon for making [Keana Nadeshiko](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ishizawa-lab.co.jp%2Fkeananadeshiko%2Fen%2F) available worldwide. Created in 2007, the brand gained fame in Japan for its Baking Soda Scrub Wash. Since then, it has introduced many skincare, makeup, and oral care products (including a men’s line!).
![AEDIT-KeanaNadeshiko](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/2uxfuaqa1gH3dQFSMlJXkY/4162fc2cd44b5aa13ab042072136a532/AEDIT-KeanaNadeshiko.png)
**Product Pick**: From the packaging to the product, their Rice Mask is a quintessential Japanese skincare product. This sheet mask is made of Japanese rice and nourishing essences. The sheets are pretty saturated, so be sure to use the left-over formula on your neck, chest, and hands. $9 for 10 masks, [amazon.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FKeana-Nadeshiko-Rice-Pieces-Japan%2Fdp%2FB018FM03CO) 

### **South Korea**: Belif
This K-beauty brand entered Sephora doors across the U.S. in 2015 and has had a cult following ever since. Inspired by apothecary techniques, [Belif](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbelifusa.com%2F) keeps herbs like oat seed and calendula at the forefront of its ultra-hydrating products.
![AEDIT-Belif](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/7o5klm8RwYi1MWbbMYJkXO/057cc8375da16949c3f5040247019017/AEDIT-Belif.png)
**Product Pick**: The Moisturizing Eye Bomb is a game changer for tired peepers. The lightweight, bouncy texture revitalizes the eye area and offers 26 hours of moisture. $48, [sephora.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fmoisturizing-eye-bomb-P422905) 

### **Japan**: DHC
Founded in 1972, the Japanese beauty brand is based on the concept of wabi-sabi, which teaches that beauty is “perfectly imperfect.” [DHC](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dhccare.com%2F) (short for Daigaku Honyaku Center) skincare and cosmetic products leverage the nourishing and antioxidant-packed benefits of organic olives and other botanicals. 
![AEDIT-DHC](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/3XX0BwbwJ1Xvi34AkdpjhI/b44a5ea750881e22f5bd87a2c73a529c/AEDIT-DHC.png)
**Product Pick**: When it comes to the art of the double cleanse, nothing beats the DHC Deep Cleansing Oil, which melts away makeup and draws out toxins with its blend of organic olive oil, rosemary leaf oil, and vitamin E. $28, [ulta.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ulta.com%2Fdeep-cleansing-oil%3FproductId%3Dpimprod2004241)

### **South Korea**: Mediheal
As Korea’s best-selling sheet mask brand, [Mediheal](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fmedihealus.com%2F) sells five sheet masks per second. It has been on the cutting-edge of sheet mask technology thanks to its innovative ingredients, delivery systems, and packaging since its inception in 2014. Mediheal made its way to the U.S. in 2019.
![AEDIT-Mediheal](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/6BFzncQg84GAN5LvsdBBQH/fde22b55093fb2843a26365a5977dae3/AEDIT-Mediheal.png)
**Product Pick**: Try the N.M.F. Intensive Hydrating Sheet Mask. The essence is made up of hyaluronic acid, amino acids, and sugars to hydrate, while willow bark and witch hazel gently exfoliate and tone. Leave it on for 15 minutes and pat the excess formula into your face, neck, and decollete. $10 for 5 masks, [sokoglam.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fsokoglam.com%2Fcollections%2Fmediheal%2Fproducts%2Fmediheal-n-m-f-intensive-hydrating-sheet-mask) 

### **Japan**: Shiseido
In 1872, the first Western-inspired pharmacy opened in the Ginza district of Tokyo. By 1930, it shifted its focus from pharmaceuticals to cosmetics and the rest is history. Today, [Shiseido](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.shiseido.com%2Fus%2Fen%2F) makeup and skincare is sold in some 88 countries worldwide.
![AEDIT-Shiseido](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/169RVX5kGHmYqawNHFoly2/aa4a0cfd3b660d1973110c0e9b8c79f9/AEDIT-Shiseido.png)
**Product Pick**: The brand is known for its high-tech formulations, and its Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion SPF 50+ Sunscreen is one such example. The invisible formula becomes *more* effective (yes, you read that correctly) when exposed to water and heat, making it an ideal choice for active lifestyles. $49, [shiseido.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.shiseido.com%2Fus%2Fen%2Fultimate-sun-protector-lotion-spf-50-sunscreen-9990000000200.html)

### **South Korea**: Laneige
[Laneige](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fus.laneige.com%2F), the younger sister of AmorePacific, offers “advanced water science technology” to its now global consumer. The brand is known for its affordable yet effective moisturizing products for day and night.
![AEDIT-Laneige](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/4n8aqNF37YSP4pHSFETj9N/2c82151d6772c406f13c6ffff246ef56/AEDIT-Laneige.png)
**Product Pick**: You can’t beat the Water Sleeping Mask. When your skin is dry, fine lines and wrinkles take center stage. Try using this overnight mask — formulated with hydro lionized mineral water twice per week — to rejuvenate and hydrate your skin as you sleep. Don’t worry, it absorbs quickly and won’t make a mess of your pillowcase. $25, [sephora.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fwater-sleeping-mask-P420651%3Ficid2%3Dproducts%2520grid%3Ap420651) 

### **Japan**: Suisai 
A Japanese drugstore staple, this line of facial cleansers is one of the secrets to a poreless complexion. [Suisai](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.kanebo-cosmetics.jp%2Fsuisai%2F) is based on the idea that thoroughly cleaning the skin today will lead to better skin tomorrow, which means you never have an excuse to not wash your face before bed again.
![AEDIT-Suisai](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/7LUBdgYOZbSQfTQuNONHav/6a6251efbdc385473f6bd1ead93399ed/AEDIT-Suisai.png)
**Product Pick**: The Clear Powder is great for travel thanks to its packaging. The mini pods turn into foam when you add water and work to a lather. Formulated with amino acids and enzymes, it helps unclog pores and smooth skin texture. $21, [amazon.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FKanebo-Suisai-Beauty-Powder-watercolor%2Fdp%2FB005DP2FAA) 

*All products featured are independently selected by our editors, however, AEDIT may receive a commission on items purchased through our links.*

A blend of natural ingredients and advanced technology is to thank for a flawless and poreless complexion. 

Best Skincare Brands And Beauty Products In Asia

10 Skincare Brands We Love From Asia

A gentle device that uses vibrations to accelerate tooth movement and reduce discomfort with orthodontic treatment.

AcceleDent Optima works by inserting the mouthpiece, fitted around your existing fixed braces or clear aligners, and turning on the activator for 20 minute every day. AcceleDent Optima can speed up tooth movement by utilizing SoftPulse Technology® which applies precisely calibrated vibrations called micropulses that transmit through the roots of your teeth to the surrounding bone. This gentle vibration helps increase the cellular activity and speeds the rate in which your teeth can move. Faster tooth movement can decrease the duration of your orthodontic treatment and may help to make your orthodontics more comfortable.

AcceleDent Optima

Teeth

Mouth

AcceleDent Optima is a safe and gentle device that uses vibrations to accelerate tooth movement by as much as 50 percent and reduce discomfort associated with orthodontic treatment.

AcceleDent Optima

The Skinny

About the Procedure

Recovery Notes

Ideal Candidate

Not Recommended For

Side Effects

Pros

Cons

From the AEDITION