If you're dealing with skin issues like acne, dry skin, dark spots, or wrinkles, or if you're trying to simplify your skincare routine, multi-tasking products like a niacinamide serum can help you. This do-it-all product can help prevent excess oil production, reduce water loss, and has anti-inflammatory properties. Adding niacinamide serum to your routine is an easy and effective way to address skin concerns that you might have.
Want to get that glowing and nourished skin with the suitable niacinamide serum for you? Start your search with our favorites list. Taking the first spot, we have The Ordinary's Niacinamide Serum. We love that it has zinc plus niacinamide, making it effective in controlling sebum production. We have more great products on our list, so read on and give them a look! We also have a buying guide for more tips and information on picking the best niacinamide serum.
Quick List - Top Niacinamide Serums
Dr. Levy is a board certified dermatologist practicing in NYC and Westport, Connecticut. She has expertise in treating inflammatory skin conditions like acne, rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis. She has an interest in skincare and takes a personalized approach to all of her patients.
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Niacinamide or nicotinamide is a form of vitamin B3 usually found in whole grain foods and vegetables. It's not naturally produced in the body, so it needs to be ingested or topically applied to our skin like through serums.
Niacinamide serums offer a lot of benefits to the skin. They can help boost and support the skin barrier, reduce risks and signs of premature aging, reduce inflammation from acne and breakouts, lighten dark spots and hyperpigmentation, and help to maintain skin moisture.
They can also be beneficial to all skin types. In conjunction with other ingredients, they can be used to target specific skin concerns. You can use your chosen niacinamide serum every day, ideally after toning and before moisturizing.
While it's not necessarily related to improving skin tone, a large clinical study published in the New England Journal of Medicine showed that taking an oral niacinamide supplement can reduce the frequency of pre-cancerous lesions on the skin.
Although no clinical study has been done studying topical niacinamide, it is suspected to also have a protective effect on the skin. Oral niacinamide can also be used to treat acne, thus serums containing this versatile ingredient can easily be incorporated into acne treatment.
When choosing a niacinamide serum for your skin, it's important to consider the niacinamide concentration and other ingredients it contains. Read on for some tips and tricks that will help you choose the best niacinamide serum.
Niacinamide comes with great benefits for the skin, but it can cause skin irritation, redness, and dermatitis when used in high concentrations. This is why it’s essential to check how much niacinamide your serum contains.
If you have sensitive skin or if you’re just starting to incorporate niacinamide in your routine, it's recommended to go for low concentrations of 1 to 5 percent. Some research has shown that you can notice an improvement in dark spots and fine lines with a concentration of 5 percent.
Once your skin gets used to it or you find yourself wanting more effects, you can go up to 10 to 15 percent. If you're unsure at what level to start, do a patch test beforehand or consult with your dermatologist. Generally, though, we recommend starting low and gradually increasing the percentages, as it takes time for your skin to recognize the benefits of a new product.
If your serum is drying you out too much - especially when using it with other anti-aging products like retinoids - you may want to cut back to using it a few times a week or alternating it with your other products. That way, you can get the benefits from both the niacinamide serum and a retinoid.
Most serums aren't straight-up niacinamide, so it's important to look at the other active ingredients in the formula to address specific skin concerns.
You can find niacinamide serums infused with other active ingredients that will give you optimal results. For example, hydrating and moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, aloe extract, and glycerin will be beneficial for people with dry skin, and their effects can be boosted even more with the presence of niacinamide.
If you want to address dullness and signs of aging, consider niacinamide serums with vitamins E and A to reduce inflammation and make your skin bright and smooth. They can also reduce pigmentation, fine lines, and wrinkles. Vitamins in green tea - especially vitamin B-2 - are great for addressing inflammation and signs of aging as well.
Ingredients that can possibly benefit acne treatment when used in tandem with niacinamide are folic acid, zinc, and green tea. If you want to address blemishes with your niacinamide serum, consider the addition of one of these ingredients.
Depending on your skin concerns or skin type, you may choose a niacinamide serum that has other beneficial ingredients. If you have hyperpigmentation or skin aging, vitamin C can be useful along with the niacinamide.
For acne or rosacea, zinc added to the niacinamide can help reduce inflammation in the skin. For drier skin, look for a product that has added hyaluronic acid.
When looking at the ingredients of your niacinamide serum, you want to avoid potentially irritating ingredients, especially if you have sensitive skin. Some ingredients you want to avoid are alcohol and fragrance in high concentrations.
Alcohols and fragrances might trigger irritation, redness, or breakouts for some people. If you want to be safe, pay attention to the ingredients list, or you can also do a patch test first to make sure the serum is safe for your skin.
For skin that is prone to irritation or contact dermatitis, I recommend trying out the serum behind the ear for a few days. This will test for a possible reaction without subjecting your face to a red and itchy rash.
Look for a serum with the least amount of added ingredients if you have sensitive skin. This will reduce your chance of developing a reaction.
I really like to use a topical niacinamide serum as part of the skincare routine for people with rosacea. The anti-inflammatory effects can help with both redness and pimples that can occur with rosacea.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% | ![]() | Best for Regulating Sebum Production of Oily Skin | |
2 | Paula's Choice | ![]() | Best Potent Serum for Dark Spot Treatment | |
3 | Glossier Super Pure | ![]() | Best Lightweight Option for Blemish-Prone Skin | |
4 | Naturium Niacinamide Serum 12% Plus Zinc 2% | ![]() | Best for Acne-Prone Skin With Enlarged Pores | |
5 | Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops | ![]() | Best Serum That Won't Interfere With Makeup | |
6 | InstaNatural | ![]() | Best for Dull and Dry Skin | |
7 | Eva Naturals Vitamin C Plus Serum | ![]() | Advanced Multi-Action Serum for Hydrated, Radiant Skin | |
8 | The Inkey List Niacinamide Oil Control Serum | ![]() | Best Niacinamide Serum for Skin Hydration | |
9 | Sunday Riley | ![]() | Best Niacinamide Serum for the Sensitive Eye Area | |
10 | Dr. Dennis Gross Stress Rescue Super Serum with Niacinamide | ![]() | Best for Skin Stress Relief |
Pros:
Cons:
Made with 10 percent niacinamide, this serum works to clear out pores and brighten dark spots. The added zinc in the formula helps control excess sebum production. The serum is free from alcohol, and fragrance, making it safer for people with sensitive skin.
A few reviewers were disappointed that the serum broke them out, while some said the product pilled on the face. Still, most reviewers said it was lightweight and gentle on the skin, while others said it helped control oiliness. Some also noticed that it lightened acne scars and dark spots.
Pros:
Cons:
This serum has a light gel consistency, perfect for oily and acne-prone skin. On top of the niacinamide, it has ingredients like vitamin C to brighten, tighten, and even out skin texture. This serum is recommended for those used to niacinamide and needs a more potent formula.
Although a few reviewers didn't see improvements with their skin after using the product, many others confirmed their pores looked smaller with continued use. They said the product made their skin feel hydrated and become more blemish-free.
Pros:
Cons:
If you're a niacinamide beginner, go for this serum with a five-percent concentration. It also contains zinc PCA, which can soothe acne-related irritation and help restore oil production balance in your skin. Additionally, it can help to reduce redness and sebum secretion. The water-gel formula is light and non-greasy.
Although some buyers said it caused small bumps on sensitive skin, most were happy with the product's formula, and how lightweight and quickly absorbed by the skin it was. They also noticed their skin getting brighter and clearer just after a few uses. Many liked that a little goes a long way with the serum, making it long-lasting.
Pros:
Cons:
This serum is formulated with 12 percent niacinamide and two percent zinc, which can help clear out pores, prevent acne and breakouts. In addition to that, it helps even out the skin tone, lighten dark spots, and refine textured skin. It also contains ingredients like glycerin to help retain moisture in your skin.
A few reviewers had bad reactions to the serum, saying it irritated their skin. Meanwhile, many praised how effectively it minimized their enlarged pores and made dark spots and patches less noticeable. Buyers also said that it was easy to apply and felt great on their skin.
Pros:
Cons:
If you want the benefits of niacinamide, like lightening dark spots and hyperpigmentation, plus the hydrating, plumping, and brightening abilities of watermelon and hyaluronic acid, this serum is the one for you. It blends easily with makeup, too, so you can wear it morning or night!
A few reviewers didn't like how sticky and messy it was to apply. Even so, the majority of them praised the product because it helped treat their acne without being greasy on the skin. Reviewers also loved the fruity fragrance and the dewy glow it gave them.
Pros:
Cons:
If you have problems with dry and dull skin, the ingredients in this serum work well in improving your skin condition. It has vitamin B3 to bring back skin elasticity, while the avocado oil and hyaluronic acid ensure your skin stays moisturized, soothed, and protected from pollutants.
A few reviewers commented that the smell was not so pleasing, while some said it might take a while to see visible results. Still, many reviewers liked how easy the product was to apply, noting that it didn't feel greasy or left a residue. They also said it made their face feel soft and smooth.
Pros:
Cons:
Eva Naturals Vitamin C Plus Serum offers a comprehensive approach to skincare by addressing multiple skin concerns with its potent blend of active ingredients. Vitamin C serves as the cornerstone, providing antioxidant protection and aiding in the repair of sun-damaged skin. Combined with Hyaluronic Acid, the serum delivers deep hydration, enhancing skin smoothness and youthfulness. Retinol and Salicylic Acid work synergistically to cleanse pores, reduce their appearance, and provide gentle exfoliation, thereby preventing breakouts and minimizing acne scars. Niacinamide and Tea Tree Oil contribute to calming inflammation and balancing oil production, making the serum suitable for various skin types, including oily and combination skin.
This serum, designed for daily use, is effective in reducing the signs of aging such as wrinkles and fine lines, while promoting a bright and even complexion. The formulation is enriched with naturally derived ingredients, including Rosehip Seed Oil, Aloe Vera, and Korean Ginseng, ensuring a gentle yet powerful skincare solution. To use, apply 3-6 drops after cleansing and toning, patting gently until fully absorbed, followed by a moisturizer for optimal results. This versatile serum is an excellent addition to any skincare routine, providing visible improvements in skin texture and tone within weeks.
Pros:
Cons:
On top of relieving redness, hyperpigmentation, and acne, this lightweight serum also helps control excess oil production. It contains 10 percent niacinamide and is infused with 1 percent hyaluronic acid, making it great even for first-time niacinamide users. This addition helps keep the skin moisturized.
A few reviewers said this serum broke them out, so be sure to do a patch test and introduce it to your face slowly. On the other hand, many buyers loved how hydrating and lightweight it was. They said it also helped them with their acne and evened out their skin tone.
Pros:
Cons:
The undereye area is very sensitive, requiring gentle care and ingredients that minimize fine lines and uneven skin tone. This serum uses niacinamide to smoothen and rehydrate the eye area. It also has ceramides and olive oil that lock in moisture, so your skin doesn't dry out.
A few reviewers with very sensitive eye areas advise applying only a little at a time and testing out the product first as it could lead to irritation. Meanwhile, many others said the product was easy to apply and had a lot of nourishing ingredients. They said their eye area felt hydrated after getting absorbed easily.
Pros:
Cons:
This niacinamide serum is suitable for all skin types. It can help moisturize your skin, control oil production, and reduce wrinkles, redness, acne, and breakouts. The serum is also made with ashwagandha, which can brighten dark spots, and goji, which evens out your skin tone.
Some buyers said the serum didn't work well on their skin; some said it caused their acne to flare out. But, other than that, many reviewers loved that it helped tone their skin and soothe their redness. Others also said that it made their skin smoother and gave it a healthy glow.
Even after reading through this guide, you may have some lingering questions about niacinamide serums. We've researched the answers to some commonly asked questions, so hopefully, you'll find your answer here!
Niacinamide serums can be incorporated into either or both your morning and nightly skincare routine. Since many niacinamide serums are water-based rather than oil-based, they will absorb into your skin better if they're applied before any oil-based steps of your routine. So, a good place to fit niacinamide serum into your routine is after cleansing and toning (if you need it).
If a vitamin C product is part of your skincare routine, you may want to consider avoiding it paired with niacinamide. Though there's no evidence showing the two can clash and result in irritation when applied topically, anecdotal evidence shows that flushing can occur in some.
The short answer is: it's highly unlikely that it will! Some powerful skincare products like retinols are known to cause "purging", in which rapid cell turnover can cause irritated, acne-like bumps. When it comes to niacinamide, though, that doesn't seem to be the case. You can always stay on the safe side by starting off with a low-percentage niacinamide serum, though.
Neither is necessarily "better" than the other; it depends on your skincare goals and how your skin normally reacts to products. Niacinamide is often used to address inflammation and hyperpigmentation, while hyaluronic acid is more commonly used to tackle dryness and dehydration.
If you're looking for something to reduce redness, dark spots, and acne, then niacinamide is technically better than hyaluronic acid. If you want to moisturize, you're better off with hyaluronic acid. Or, you can even use them together! Like we talked about in the buying guide, niacinamide can possibly boost the hydrating effects of hyaluronic acid even more.
Although niacinamide serums are multi-tasking, they aren't the only thing you'll be putting on your face. Here are other products you can use to get your skin back in order.
This expert reviewed the contents of the buying guide for accuracy and provided factual corrections when necessary. They did not participate in the product selection process, nor are they affiliated with any of our choices unless explicitly stated so.
No. 1: The Ordinary|Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
No. 2: Paula's Choice|
No. 3: Glossier|Super Pure
No. 4: Naturium|Niacinamide Serum 12% Plus Zinc 2%
No. 5: Glow Recipe|Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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