Posted by Cristina Mejia
Sensitive skin needs ingredients that soothe, strengthen the skin barrier, and provide hydration without causing irritation. The combination of niacinamide and squalane has proven to be highly effective: niacinamide reduces redness and strengthens the barrier, while squalane mimics the skin's natural lipids to deeply hydrate it. In this article, you'll discover how these active ingredients work, how to choose appropriate products, and the best TEIA products you can incorporate into your routine.
What is niacinamide?
Niacinamide, or vitamin B3, is a multifunctional active ingredient that acts on several fronts:
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces redness and sensitivity.
- Barrier strengthener: Stimulates the synthesis of ceramides.
- Sebum regulator: Balances oil production.
- Mild anti-aging: Stimulates collagen production.
It is suitable for reactive skin thanks to its gentle, fragrance-free profile.
What is squalane?
Squalane, derived from olive or sugarcane oil, is a lipid that mimics the skin's natural oils. Its main benefits are:
- High bioavailability: Absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy feeling.
- Deep hydration: Prevents transepidermal water loss.
- Mild Antioxidant: Protects against environmental oxidation.
Its tolerance is excellent even on skin with a tendency to atopy or eczema.
Why they work together for sensitive skin
When combined, niacinamide and squalane act in a complementary manner:
- First defense: Niacinamide strengthens the lipid barrier and reduces inflammation.
- Continuous hydration: Squalane seals in hydration and repairs the skin's lipidome.
- Better absorption: Squalane facilitates the penetration of niacinamide into deeper layers.
This synergy results in calmer, softer skin that is more resilient to external aggressors.
How to choose products with niacinamide and squalane
- Proper concentration: Look for niacinamide between 2–5%.
- Minimalist formulas: No synthetic fragrances or parabens.
- Light texture: Fast-absorbing serum or cream.
Check out our niacinamide collection for more targeted options.
Top 3 recommended TEIA products for sensitive skin
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Facial Toner with Niacinamide
Formulated with niacinamide to reduce redness and strengthen the barrier.
No synthetic fragrances or alcohol.
Watery texture, very light and quickly absorbed.
View product -
Squalene & Hyaluronic Acid Facial Cream
Combines squalene to nourish and hyaluronic acid to retain water.
Paraben, fragrance, and colorant free, ideal for preventing breakouts.
Soft textured cream, perfect for use after toner.
View product -
Bakuchiol Serum with Squalene
Natural retinoid (bakuchiol) more tolerable thanks to squalene.
Stimulates cell renewal without the irritation of synthetic retinoids.
Use it at night after toner on skin that tolerates new active ingredients well.
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Note: Although these aren't specific lines for sensitive skin, their fragrance- and irritant-free profile and clean formulation make them very suitable. Always do a patch test on your forearm before applying to your face.
How to incorporate them into your daily routine
- Gentle cleansing with a sulfate-free cleanser.
- Niacinamide tonic to balance pH.
- Bakuchiol serum (every 2–3 nights) for renewal.
- Squalene cream morning and night to seal in hydration.
- Broad spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen every morning.
Avoid mixing with AHAs or synthetic retinoids on the same day as the bakuchiol serum to minimize the risk of irritation.
Your questions about niacinamide and squalane answered
Can I combine these products with vitamin C or other antioxidants in my routine?
Yes. Both niacinamide and squalane work very well with antioxidants like vitamin C if you follow these tips:
Directions for application: First, apply the vitamin C serum to clean, dry skin; allow it to absorb for 1–2 minutes.
Niacinamide next: Follow with niacinamide toner or serum to strengthen the barrier and balance pH.
Squalane at the end: Seal in all the hydration with your squalane cream or oil.
Tolerance test: If you experience itching or irritation, use on alternate days or reduce the concentration of vitamin C.
Daily Routine: You can use vitamin C in the morning (along with sunscreen) and reserve niacinamide and squalane for morning and night, depending on your skin's tolerance.
What other ingredients do they go well with?
They are complemented with hyaluronic acid, soft peptides and antioxidants such as vitamin E.
How long does it take to notice improvement?
Generally between 4–6 weeks of constant use, noticing less redness and longer-lasting hydration.
The combination of niacinamide and squalane offers a balanced routine for sensitive skin: it strengthens the barrier, soothes inflammation, and deeply hydrates. Selected TEIA products meet these requirements without fragrances or irritants, ensuring tolerance and efficacy.
Visit our TEIA line with niacinamide and squalene, specially designed to care for and soothe sensitive skin.
