Ingredient guide
Niacinamide
INCI name · niacinamide
In short
Niacinamide (also called vitamin B3) is one of the most-studied skincare actives. It is generally used to support the skin barrier and to help with the look of pores, visible redness, and uneven tone. It has a low irritation risk, suits most skin types, and can be used daily, morning or evening, alongside most other ingredients.
Skin type
Oily · Combination · Sensitive · Dry
Best used
Anytime
What it is
One of the most studied actives. Works across focuses. Low irritation risk.
Evidence receipt
StrongNiacinamide · applied to skin
Based on 2 sources
Open the citable recordWell studied in relation to a calmer, more even-looking complexion and a supported skin barrier.
Studied as Niacinamide: 5% niacinamide.
See 2 sources
Double-blind split-face, 5% niacinamide, 12 weeks: significant reductions in fine lines, hyperpigmented spots, red blotchiness and sallowness; improved elasticity.
fine lines, hyperpigmented spots, red blotchiness, sallowness, elasticity · 5% niacinamide
Dermatologic Surgery, 2005Confirmed reductions in yellowing, wrinkling, red blotchiness and hyperpigmented spots.
yellowing, wrinkling, red blotchiness, hyperpigmented spots
Int J Cosmetic Science, 2004
Affiliation note. Publication links report the study authors and their affiliations. MIRU does not infer independence from an affiliation alone.
When to use it
Either. It is famously easygoing, morning or evening.
Comfortable daily, and it layers calmly with most routines.
On the label
Usually 2–10% on labels
More is not better here. Around 4–5% covers most of the visible benefit with less irritation risk.
Where it sits
Serums sit after toner and before moisturiser. Thinnest to thickest, water before oil.
- Cleanse
- Tone
- Niacinamide
- Moisturise
- SPF
Also found as
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Browse product comparisonsWhere to find it
Examples, not a ranking. A product lookup can confirm identity and background; a verdict still needs the full ingredient list.
Niacinamide serum for marks left behind. Tone work shows up over months, not days.
10% niacinamide
Axis-Y Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum
Niacinamide and squalane serum targeting dark spots and uneven tone.
5% niacinamide
Anua Peach 70 Niacinamide Serum
Peach and niacinamide serum for brightening and pore care.
Product discovery is not efficacy proof. These examples are not ranked by commission.
Common questions
What does niacinamide do for skin?
Niacinamide is associated in published research with barrier support and with the appearance of pores, redness and uneven tone. MIRU frames it by what is visible, not as a treatment or cure.
Can I use niacinamide every day?
Niacinamide is generally well tolerated and is commonly used daily, in the morning or evening. As with any active, introduce it on its own first and see how your skin responds.
Does niacinamide suit sensitive skin?
It is typically considered low-irritation and is often chosen for sensitive, oily, combination and dry skin. If your skin is reactive, patch-test first and add one new product at a time.
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Personal guidance, not medical advice.