Walk down any skincare aisle or scroll through any skincare page and you will see niacinamide. It appears in serums, moisturizers, cleansers and even body lotions. It has a reputation as a gentle, versatile ingredient, and it suits a range of skin concerns, from oily skin to uneven tone. But how does it work, and which strength should you choose?
This guide explains niacinamide in plain language and helps you pick a serum from Reginah’s catalogue.
What is niacinamide?
Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3. In skincare, it is used in leave-on products to help support the skin barrier, regulate the look of oil and pores, and improve the appearance of uneven tone. It is generally well tolerated, which is one reason it appears in so many products.
Claims differ between brands, so read listings critically. A product may be marketed for several benefits, but the results you see depend on your skin, the formula and consistent use.
Potential benefits
- Supports the skin barrier. A healthier barrier helps skin hold moisture and resist irritation.
- Helps with the look of oil and pores. Many oily-skin routines include niacinamide for a more balanced look. See our oily skin routine.
- Evens the look of tone. It is often used for dark marks left by breakouts, usually alongside sunscreen. Read more in how to fade dark spots.
- Soothes the look of redness. Some people find it calming.
Results are gradual. Plan on using it consistently for several weeks before judging.
Which strength should you choose?
Niacinamide products commonly range from about 2% to 10%, and some go higher.
- 2% to 5%: a sensible starting point for beginners and sensitive skin.
- 10%: popular for oily or congested skin. Some people find it tingly or irritating, especially at the start.
- Above 10%: not necessarily better. Higher strengths can irritate some skin types.
If you are new to it, begin at a lower strength, use it a few times a week, then increase. Always patch test on your inner arm first.
Niacinamide serums to consider
Browse all serums at Reginah. These niacinamide picks are described in their listings as follows:
Advanced Clinicals 5% Niacinamide Serum 1.75oz Buy now
A 5% niacinamide serum described as minimizing pores and balancing the complexion for all skin types. A reasonable first serum.
Q+A Niacinamide Facial Serum 30ml Buy now
A pore-refining serum with niacinamide that the listing says regulates oil, calms redness and evens blemish-prone skin.
Cosmo – Facial Serum 10% Niacinamide + Zinc 30ml Buy now
A 10% niacinamide serum with 1% zinc, listed as refining pores, controlling oil and unifying tone with a matte finish. Better suited to oily skin that has used actives before.
Kabe Labs Ultimate Hydration Hyaluronic & Niacinamide Serum 52ml Buy now
Combines hyaluronic acid and niacinamide in a 52ml serum for hydration and brightness. Good if your skin is dry or dehydrated.
Beauty of Joseon Serum Line Glow Serum Propolis + Niacinamide Buy now
A Korean serum with propolis and 2% niacinamide, described as soothing acne, refining pores and giving a dewy glow. A gentler-strength option.
How to use niacinamide serum
- Cleanse your face and pat it mostly dry.
- Apply 3 to 5 drops to your face and neck, avoiding the eye area.
- Follow with moisturizer to lock it in.
- Use sunscreen in the morning. Niacinamide does not replace SPF. Our sunscreen guide can help you choose.
You can use niacinamide morning, night or both. Start with once a day. If your skin tolerates it, add a second application.
What to pair it with
- Hyaluronic acid: a natural partner for hydration. See our hyaluronic acid guide.
- Vitamin C: many people use both, either together or one in the morning and one at night. If you feel stinging, separate them. See the vitamin C serum guide.
- Retinol: often paired for balance. If your skin is irritated, use them on alternate nights. See retinol for beginners.
- Ceramide or barrier moisturizers: helpful if your skin feels tight.
Introduce one new product at a time so you can identify what works and what does not.
Sample routines
For oily or breakout-prone skin – Morning: gentle gel cleanser, niacinamide serum, lightweight moisturizer, sunscreen – Night: cleanser, niacinamide serum, moisturizer
For dry or dehydrated skin – Morning: hydrating cleanser, niacinamide plus hyaluronic acid serum, richer moisturizer, sunscreen – Night: cleanser, serum, a cream that suits your skin type
For uneven tone – Morning: cleanser, niacinamide or vitamin C serum, moisturizer, sunscreen every day – Night: cleanser, niacinamide serum, moisturizer, with a retinol or azelaic acid product added slowly if your skin is comfortable
Whichever you choose, change one thing at a time. If you add niacinamide and a new cleanser the same week, you will not know which one is helping or irritating.
Common mistakes
- Using too much. More product does not equal faster results.
- Starting at a high strength. This can cause redness or a flushed look.
- Expecting overnight change. Skin needs time.
- Skipping moisturizer and SPF. Serums are only one step.
- Mixing many actives at once. This can irritate the skin barrier. More examples are in our list of common skincare mistakes.
How to tell if it is working
Take a clear photo in natural light before you start, then once a month. Look for changes in oiliness, the look of pores and how even your tone appears. Do not judge after a week. If after about eight weeks you see no change and your skin is comfortable, you can keep using it for its barrier-supporting role or try a different product. If your skin is irritated, stop and simplify.
Who should be careful?
Niacinamide is widely used, but anyone can react to any ingredient. Stop using a product if you develop burning, hives, swelling or a persistent rash. If you have a skin condition such as eczema, rosacea or very sensitive skin, ask a dermatologist before adding new actives. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your doctor about any product you plan to use.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use niacinamide every day?
Many people do, once their skin has adjusted. Start slowly and watch for irritation.
Does niacinamide lighten skin?
It is used to help even the look of tone and fade marks gradually, not to change your natural skin colour.
Can niacinamide cause breakouts?
It is not usually considered pore-clogging, but any product can trigger a reaction in some people. Patch test and introduce slowly.
Morning or night?
Either works. Many people use it in the morning with sunscreen and again at night.
Is 10% better than 5%?
Not necessarily. Higher percentages can irritate. Pick the strength your skin tolerates well.
Final thoughts
Niacinamide is a flexible, beginner-friendly ingredient. Start at a modest strength, use it consistently, and pair it with moisturizer and sunscreen. Avoid chasing the highest percentage.
Browse Reginah’s serum collection to find a niacinamide serum that suits your routine and budget.
