Chances are you’ve heard of niacinamide (which is pronounced exactly as it’s spelt: nia-cin-a-mide). It’s an ingredient that’s cropping up more and more often – and we couldn’t be happier about it.

But why is it so universally loved by skin experts and dermatologists? Well, there’s a whole host of reasons, but before we get into it, let us start by explaining what exactly it is. “Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3, an amino acid that helps to lock in moisture to restore the skin’s surface and ensure a healthy skin barrier,” says Louise Walsh, aka The Skin Nurse. “It provides skin moisture, has rehydration benefits and can help combat dry, tight and flaky skin.”

Good for sensitive, irritated and dehydrated skin types, as well as those who are blemish-prone, here are a few things you didn’t know about niacinamide – and how it can boost your beauty routine…

6 things you didn’t know about niacinamide (and how it can boost your beauty routine)