Niacinamide should be on your radar, and more importantly, on your skin.
A simple skincare routine consists of a cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen, but pretty much everyone can also benefit from using in an antioxidant serum, including one that contains the B vitamin niacinamide. Using a quality niacinamide serum has been shown to reduce acne and hyperpigmentation and contribute to healthier, brighter, more hydrated skin.1
Niacinamide is a versatile ingredient, says Rhonda Klein, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist and co-founder of Modern Dermatology in Westport, Connecticut. It brightens skin, increases hydration, and boosts skin barrier function. To top it all off, it’s also suitable for all skin types.
We asked dermatologists which niacinamide serums they recommend and what criteria to consider. To narrow down our selection, we based our final list of the top 12 niacinamide serums on benchmarks like key ingredients and niacinamide concentration. Then, a dermatologist from our Medical Expert Board reviewed this article for medical and scientific accuracy.
What Is Niacinamide Serum?
Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is a popular active ingredient and antioxidant in topical skincare products. Niacinamide serums tend to contain higher concentrations than other products and are usually targeted toward specific skincare concerns such as brightening, hydrating, and anti-aging.
As an antioxidant, niacinamide helps support healthy skin in a variety of ways, Dr. Robinson says. It soothes skin, reduces inflammation, and increases hydration, and is also known for its ability to brighten dark spots and reduce hyperpigmentation. While it’s well tolerated in most skin types, it’s more commonly used to treat oily, combination, and acne-prone skin. This is because niacinamide regulates oil production and reduces the appearance of enlarged pores.
Best Overall
Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum
Why We Like It
Korean beauty products are hot right now, and the Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum is a prime example of K-beauty innovation. It’s a niacinamide serum with a cult-like following and thousands of 5-star user reviews praising the formula for its brightening properties. Some say it’s so hydrating it leaves your skin looking like a glazed donut—who doesn’t want that?
“Peach & Lily really did it with this triple-threat serum,” says Gabriela Soza, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. In addition to antioxidant-rich niacinamide, it promises glass skin with key active ingredients like hyaluronic acid for hydration, peptides for collagen production, and peach extract for radiance.
It’s Worth Noting
It’s suitable for all skin types and also fragrance-free, but those with super sensitive skin may find it doesn’t agree with their skin due to the high niacinamide content.
Product Details
- Size: 1.35 fluid ounces
- Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, peach extract, peptides
Best for Sensitive Skin
Glossier Super Pure Serum with Niacinamide + Zinc
Why We Like It
Niacinamide reduces skin inflammation, so you’d think it would soothe sensitive skin, but that’s not the case for everyone.2 If your skin is on the sensitive side, it’s best to opt for a serum with a lower niacinamide concentration. That’s why Dr. Soza recommends Glossier Super Pure Clarifying Face Serum for sensitive skin.
This formula contains niacinamide at a 5% concentration, which is the perfect amount to benefit sensitive skin without sacrificing efficacy. It also contains active ingredients that combat irritation, such as anti-inflammatory zinc PCA and soothing allantoin.
It’s Worth Noting
The lightweight formula is ideal for oily and combination skin types, but it might not be moisturizing enough for dry skin.
Product Details
- Size: 1 fluid ounce
- Key Ingredients: 5% niacinamide, zinc PCA
Best for Oily Skin
Naturium Niacinamide Serum 12% Plus Zinc 2%
Why We Like It
Dr. Klein recommends Naturium Niacinamide Serum 12% Plus Zinc 2% for those who struggle with acne, excess oil production, and enlarged pores. She’s confident it will help correct excessive oiliness and prevent sebum from clogging pores. It’s also a solid choice if you’re looking to brighten dark spots and even out skin tone.
Part of what makes this serum ideal for oily skin types is its higher niacinamide concentration. At 12% concentration, it’s higher than your typical 10% niacinamide serum. More doesn’t always mean better, but this is a great serum if you have with oily skin and have tried and enjoyed niacinamide at a lower concentration.
It’s Worth Noting
Niacinamide is known to cause irritation at higher concentrations, so if you have sensitive skin it might be best to avoid this one.
Product Details
- Size: 1 fluid ounce
- Key Ingredients: 12% niacinamide, 2% zinc, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E
Best for Hyperpigmentation
La Roche-Posay 10% Pure Niacinamide Face Serum
Why We Like It
Niacinamide serum is an effective choice for hyperpigmentation and dark spots, says Deanne Mraz Robinson, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist and co-founder of Modern Dermatology in Westport, Connecticut. She approves of the 10% concentration in La Roche Posay Niacinamide 10 Serum for brightening skin and evening out skin tone.
Studies also support topical niacinamide’s skin-lightening effects.3 “It’s great for lightening hyperpigmentation from sun damage and dark spots from past acne lesions,” Robinson adds. We also love this serum’s strong line up of active ingredients, including hyaluronic acid and vitamin E.
It’s Worth Noting
Despite its impressive formula, the serum is not fragrance-free, so it might not be the best choice if you have very sensitive skin.
Product Details
- Size: 1 fluid ounce
- Key Ingredients: 10% niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E
Best Budget
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
Why We Like It
If you’re unsure if niacinamide will become a staple in your regimen, the Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Oil Control Serum is a great product to try without splurging. This serum rivals some others we’ve seen at higher price points.
“I love how affordable The Ordinary products are,” says Geeta Yadav, MD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of FACET Dermatology in Toronto, Canada. Not only does the serum offer a 10% concentration of niacinamide, but it also contains zinc. Together, the duo reduces inflammation, controls oil production, and decongests skin, Yadav says.
It’s Worth Noting
It only contains niacinamide and zinc PCA, so it’s not a multitasking product like some of the other serums on our list.
Product Details
- Size: 1 fluid ounce
- Key Ingredients: 10% niacinamide, 1% zinc PCA
Best for Acne-Prone Skin
Versed Clarifying Serum
Why We Like It:
Beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid are proven to clear congested pores and treat acne. If you have acne-prone skin, Versed Just Breathe Clarifying Serum contains a cocktail of breakout-busting ingredients, including niacinamide, zinc, salicylic acid, and willow bark extract.
One of niacinamide’s roles in this serum is to soothe skin, which is helpful for angry acne, Dr. Klein says. Additionally, zinc and BHAs reduce the appearance of and clear out pores. If you’re worried about irritation, salicylic acid is typically well tolerated, says Rachel Nazarian MD, FAAD, New York-based board-certified dermatologist.
It’s Worth Noting
It has a lower niacinamide concentration than other serums at a similar price point.
Product Details
- Size: 1 fluid ounces
- Key Ingredients: 1.06% niacinamide, zinc, willow bark extract, salicylic acid
Best for Dry Skin
Neutrogena Hydro Boost + Niacinamide Serum
Why We Like It
Niacinamide is widely known for its ability to reduce pore size, skin inflammation, and dark spots, but it can also boost moisture levels in your skin.4 Neutrogena Hydro Boost + Niacinamide Serum also contains glycerin and hyaluronic acid—humectants that draw in water—which is why it’s our pick for dry skin.
This serum is free of potential irritants like fragrance, parabens, and phthalates. Since the ingredients are well tolerated by most skin types, it could be a good choice for those with sensitive skin, adds Nazarian.
It’s Worth Noting
The texture is a little bit sticky at first. Also, at 10% concentration, performing a patch test first is probably a good idea.
Product Details
- Size: 1 fluid ounce
- Key Ingredients: 10% niacinamide, glycerin, hyaluronic acid
Best Drugstore
L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Niacinamide Amino Sulfonic and Ferulic Acid Serum
Why We Like It
Antioxidants fend off unstable molecules (also known as free radicals) that cause skin damage, and when combined with one another, they may be more effective than when you use them alone. We like that L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Niacinamide Amino Sulfonic and Ferulic Acid Serum combines two potent antioxidants, niacinamide and ferulic acid, in one multi-tasking formula.
Like niacinamide, ferulic acid is an antioxidant that protects your skin against pollution, UV exposure, and aging, explains Dr. Soza. Together, the duo brightens mature or photo-aged skin, effectively targeting dark spots and hyperpigmentation. It also contains an amino acid called sulfonic acid, which gently exfoliates the top layer of skin and brightens your complexion.
It’s Worth Noting
It’s not fragrance-free, which could be a deterrent in those with sensitive skin. The serum also contains a 12% niacinamide concentration, so Dr. Soza says it’s best for those with acne-prone, combination, or oily skin.
Product Details
- Size: 1 fluid ounce
- Key Ingredients: 12% niacinamide, amino sulfonic acid, ferulic acid
Best for Beginners
Skinfix Barrier+ Triple Lipid + Collagen + Niacinamide Activating Serum
Why We Like It
Incorporating any new active ingredient in your skincare routine can come with some trial and error. We like that Skinfix Barrier+ Serum contains just 2% niacinamide, giving you an opportunity to see how your skin tolerates it. This concentration is lower than most others we researched, making it perfect for beginners.
Since the serum contains other active ingredients, Dr. Robinson says it’s a great way to add niacinamide to your regimen alongside other skin superstars, including lipids and peptides for skin barrier support and firmness. It also contains a polyglutamic acid complex, which is said to be even more hydrating than hyaluronic acid.
It’s Worth Noting
The bottle doesn’t last long.
Product Details
- Size: 1 fluid ounces
- Key Ingredients: 2% niacinamide, peptides, polyglutamic acid complex, ceramides
Best for Mature Skin
Youth To The People Retinal + Niacinamide Youth Serum
Why We Like It
Niacinamide in its own right is an incredible anti-aging ingredient. It brightens dull skin and lightens dark spots for a more youthful glow. And at 5% concentration, Youth to the People Retinal + Niacinamide Youth Serum isn’t too low or too high.
This serum takes the anti-aging benefits a step further with 0.15% retinal (also known as retinaldehyde). “Retinal is an amazing ingredient that isn’t commonly used in skincare today,” Dr. Yadav says, adding that it’s more potent than regular retinol.
It’s Worth Noting
Like niacinamide, retinal isn’t without the possibility of irritation. Fortunately, the soothing niacinamide makes the retinal more tolerable, Dr. Nazarian adds. Just keep in mind that retinal should only be used in the evening. You also may need to work your way up to daily use as your skin adjusts.
Product Details
- Size: 1 fluid ounce
- Key Ingredients: 5% niacinamide, 0.15% retinaldehyde, ceramides, adaptogenic mushrooms
Best with Vitamin C
Bubble Day Dream Vitamin C + Niacinamide Tone & Texture Serum
Why We Like It
Since vitamin C is somewhat unstable, it doesn’t always play well with others, but Dr. Robinson encourages mixing the two ingredients to compound their brightening benefits. Bubble Day Dream Vitamin C + Niacinamide Tone and Texture Serum combines both superstars in an affordable, gentle formula.
While the antioxidants in the serum illuminate your complexion, a laundry list of ceramides support skin barrier function. These lipids soften and moisturize your skin while also helping to keep external aggressors out. The serum is also free of common irritants like fragrance and alcohol, making it a thoughtful choice for anyone looking to try niacinamide. Dr. Robinson says it’s even safe for sensitive skin.
It’s Worth Noting
The packaging and pump could be improved.
Product Details:
- Size: 1 fluid ounce
- Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, vitamin C, ceramides, alpha arbutin
Best Versatile
Paula’s Choice Niacinamide Booster
Why We Like It
If you’re looking for a niacinamide serum for brightness, Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster is the one for you. The high niacinamide content helps to reduce dark spots and hyperpigmentation, as do the vitamin C and licorice extract in this booster.
“I often recommend Paula’s Choice products because the brand is very transparent about the ingredients used and creates concentrated formulas focused on maximum efficacy,” says Dr. Yadav. She approves of the high 10% concentration of niacinamide as well as additional antioxidants.
Unlike the other products on our list, this one is considered a booster, so you can add 2-3 drops to your current serum or moisturizer to simplify your skincare routine. It can also be used alone as a separate step in your regimen.
It’s Worth Noting
The bottle only contains 0.67 ounces, so you may run out more quickly than you would with the more common 1-ounce serums.
Product Details
- Size: 0.67 fluid ounce
- Key Ingredients: 10% niacinamide, vitamin C, licorice extract
How We Tested & Selected
We began our quest for the best niacinamide serums by researching the top-rated brands and products currently on the market. This gave us an idea of the variety of niacinamide serums available.
We then contacted several experts to determine what constitutes a good niacinamide serum. They shared their personal recommendations and advice on what we should know when making our final selection. With their expert input, we based our recommendations on concentration and other ingredients that pair well with niacinamide.
We had editors test 29 products for a period of 8 weeks, paying special attention to these attributes:
Consistency: We noted how it felt on our skin, whether it was thick, watery, or runny, and how the serum layered with other products.
Absorption: We tracked how long it took to absorb into the skin and if it felt tacky, tight, or sticky.
Effectiveness: We noted if and how our skin improved over the testing period, including differences in texture, hyperpigmentation, oil production, and more.
Overall results: We determined if the product did what it claimed to, how it smelled, and how easy and mess-free the application process was.
The Experts
The board-certified dermatologists we interviewed included:
Rhonda Klein, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist and co-founder of Modern Dermatology in Westport, Connecticut
Rachel Nazarian MD, FAAD, New York-based board-certified dermatologist
Deanne Mraz Robinson, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist and co-founder of Modern Dermatology in Westport, Connecticut
Gabriela Soza, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist in New York City
Geeta Yadav, MD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of FACET Dermatology in Toronto, Canada
How to Use Niacinamide Serum
Adding a niacinamide serum to your skincare regimen is fairly simple. Apply it after cleansing but before moisturizing, instructs Dr. Yadav. She recommends using it in the daytime when you’re most likely to be exposed to free radicals, though it can also be used in nighttime routines.
Niacinamide can be used daily as long as the other ingredients in your serum are also suitable for everyday use. For example, it might be best to start off using niacinamide serums that contain derivatives of vitamin A (such as the Youth To The People Retinal + Niacinamide Youth Serum) just once or twice per week and gradually increasing the frequency.
And let’s not forget good sun protection. While everyone should be using sunscreen daily, Dr. Klein emphasizes its importance if you want to maintain the brightening benefits of niacinamide.
Niacinamide Concentration
Niacinamide concentration is one of the most important deciding factors when selecting a product, since higher concentration can cause skin irritation. Our picks range from 1% to 12% concentration of niacinamide, though most fall between 5% and 10%.
If you’re new to niacinamide, opt for a low concentration. Versed Just Breathe Clarifying Serum contains just 1.06%, while the Skinfix Barrier+ Triple Lipid + Collagen + Niacinamide Activating Serum has a 2% concentration, making them both suitable for beginners.
Once your skin has adjusted, you can begin looking at formulas with a concentration around 5% to 10%. This is the range Dr. Robinson recommends if hydrating and soothing skin is your goal. Youth To The People’s Retinal + Niacinamide Youth Serum contains 5%, which could be a good stepping stone before trying something more potent, such as Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster.
Our most concentrated picks include those by Naturium and L’Oreal Paris, which both contain a 12% concentration. At concentrations over 10% the risk of irritation increases, so Dr. Yadav says to perform a patch test prior to use.
Other Ingredients
One of the many perks of niacinamide is that it pairs well with other popular skincare ingredients. Dr. Klein says you shouldn’t have to worry about experiencing negative reactions from mixing other active ingredients with niacinamide. In fact, the dermatologists we spoke to recommend multi-tasking serums. Since niacinamide helps skin retain its hydration, look for humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin. These ingredients attract and bind water to prevent dryness. You’ll find ample hydrators in our pick for dry skin, Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost + Niacinamide Serum.
Our experts also emphasized the importance of ceramides and peptides in a rounded skincare routine. These ingredients promote firmness and support skin barrier function. If skin integrity is your priority, the Bubble Day Dream Vitamin C + Niacinamide Tone and Texture Serum is loaded with ceramides, while Peach and Lily’s Glass Skin Refining Serum is a good source of peptides.
One of the most common combinations recommended by our experts was to combine niacinamide with other antioxidants, such as vitamins A, C, and E. Antioxidants work best when used together instead of separately. L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Niacinamide Amino Sulfonic and Ferulic Acid Serum contains three antioxidants: niacinamide, vitamin C, and ferulic acid.
Skin Type
Everyone can use niacinamide, Dr. Nazarian says. When used correctly, a niacinamide serum is a gentle way to incorporate antioxidants into your skincare routine. Since we’re all exposed to free radicals on a daily basis, most of us can benefit from antioxidants.
While all skin types can use and benefit from a niacinamide serum, it’s most popular among those with oily, combination, and acne-prone skin. Since niacinamide helps regulate excessive oiliness, it could lead to fewer breakouts and may also help shrink pores. Those with normal and dry skin types can also use niacinamide. In fact, niacinamide’s ability to maintain skin hydration levels helps improve dryness.
There are some concerns about whether niacinamide is suitable for those with sensitive skin. Although niacinamide can cause irritation, this is more likely at higher concentrations. It’s best to introduce niacinamide at a lower potency if you’re prone to irritation. If you have very sensitive skin, Dr. Yadav recommends performing a patch test before committing to a full application.
Your Questions, Answered
Can you use niacinamide if you also use hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid is a humectant that draws in water, and niacinamide is an antioxidant that helps maintain skin hydration levels. Together, the two are effective at improving dry skin.
What should niacinamide not be used with?
Since niacinamide pairs well with other active ingredients, there isn’t anything it can’t be used with. Pairing it with harsh ingredients such as retinol can even make them more tolerable. There are some concerns surrounding combining niacinamide with vitamin C, but the experts we interviewed say believe the two ingredients can and should be used together, since antioxidants are more effective in numbers.
What does niacinamide do for older skin?
Niacinamide can be used as part of an anti-aging skincare routine for mature skin. Since it helps your skin stay hydrated, it can give a more plump appearance and fight any loss of elasticity. Antioxidants are also ideal for mature skin, since they help combat dark spots and hyperpigmentation.