Niacinamide is one of those ingredients that seems to be in everything — serums, moisturisers, toners — and for good reason. It's well-loved because it's gentle, versatile and plays nicely with almost every skin type. But what does it actually do? Here's a clear, hype-free guide.
So, what is niacinamide?
Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3, a water-soluble vitamin used widely in skincare. It's known for being well tolerated by most people, which is part of why it shows up in so many formulas — it's an easy ingredient to get along with.
What niacinamide is known for
People typically reach for niacinamide for a few reasons:
- Supporting the skin barrier — it's often used in formulas designed to keep skin feeling comfortable and resilient.
- Helping skin look balanced — many find it useful for the appearance of shine and visibly smoother-looking pores.
- Promoting an even-looking tone — it's a popular choice in products that aim to brighten the overall look of the complexion.
- A lightweight, hydrating feel — it tends to layer well without feeling heavy.
As with any ingredient, results vary from person to person, and skincare works best as a consistent habit rather than a quick fix.
Who is it for?
One of niacinamide's biggest selling points is how widely it suits people — from oily and combination skin to drier or more sensitive types. If you've found stronger actives irritating in the past, niacinamide is often a gentler place to start. If your skin is reactive or you have a specific condition, it's still wise to patch test and, when in doubt, check with a dermatologist.
How to use it
Niacinamide is easy to slot in. A common approach is to apply a serum to clean skin, before your moisturiser, once or twice a day. Start with one application daily to see how your skin feels, then build from there. It generally layers well with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and sits comfortably under sunscreen in the morning.
Does it pair with other actives?
Niacinamide is considered one of the more easy-going actives and is often used alongside hydrators and moisturisers. If you're combining it with stronger ingredients such as exfoliating acids or retinoids, introduce things gradually and one at a time so you can tell how your skin is responding — that's good practice with any active.
The takeaway
Niacinamide earns its popularity by being gentle, flexible and easy to use. If you want a low-drama addition to your routine, it's a brilliant place to start. Explore our Facial Serums and wider Skincare collection to find a formula that fits your routine.
