15 Best Niacinamide Products For A Healthy Skin Barrier – 2024
These niacinamide products can do everything from skin brightening to fighting acne.
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If you’re wondering what the best niacinamide skincare products are, you’ve landed on the right page. Niacinamide is vitamin B3, an essential active ingredient for the skin to function effectively. It treats hyperpigmentation, reduces the appearance of sun spots or damage, reduces pores, and more. So, if you’ve been wondering about incorporating it into your skincare regime, we have good news for you. Here, you’ll find a list of the top 16 niacinamide products that are available online. They are skin-safe, effective, and your new skincare love!
In This Article
What Is Niacinamide?
Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that comes from foods, such as meat, fish, milk, eggs, green vegetables, and grains. It is easily absorbed by the skin and keeps it healthy.
Niacinamide is ideal for those who love lightweight ingredients as it does not dissolve in oil. It is more likely to be found in water-based serums and also features in many skin care products. However, niacinamide is not always hailed as a star ingredient, probably because it does all kinds of jobs rather than one easily-marketed targeted effect.
What Does Niacinamide Do?
Niacinamide improves cellular energy, cell turnover, and microcirculation, heals your skin, and protects it from environmental damage. It also has antibacterial properties that prevent infections caused by excess sebum production. Niacinamide also unclogs pores and prevents unwanted hair growth and acne.
Deficiency in vitamin B3 manifests in a lot of ways – and unhealthy-looking skin is one of them. You can maintain adequate B3 levels by consuming chicken, fish, red meat, salmon, tuna, kale, asparagus, and broccoli. For certain skin concerns in particular, the topical application of niacinamide has more significant benefits. Your body directly absorbs niacin, which targets specific issues internally. Niacinamide also helps improve facial skin appearance (1).
Now that you know how niacinamide works wonders on your skin, let’s check out some products that can help you add it to your skincare routine.
Top 15 Niacinamide Products You Need To Try
The Naturium Niacinamide Serum has a potent formula that contains 12% niacinamide and 2% zinc PCA. This efficiently improves uneven textured skin tone, enlarged pores, dark spots, and fine lines. The zinc PCA in the formula reduces excess shine, while hyaluronic acid plumps the skin and gives it a youthful appearance. This spot treatment product minimizes excess oil production and refines skin texture. It provides a hydration boost while also delivering a mattifying effect, delivering a fresh and balanced complexion. The pH level of this clinically proven serum is appropriate and safe for use.Best Non-Toxic:Naturium Niacinamide Serum
- Clinically effective
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Gluten-free
- Paraben-free
- Non-toxic
- No artificial fragrances
- Dermatologist-tested
- May not suit oily skin.
"This niacinamide serum improves the skin's texture and makes it feel rejuvenated. It enhances the overall skin tone and does not trigger excess sebum production. I like it as it does not peel or cause breakouts. I pair it with a non-irritating moisturizer to keep my skin hydrated consistently."
CautionDo not pair niacinamide serum with Vitamin C serum because they can cancel each other out and even cause irritation.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received 1,421 reviews on Amazon and is a popular choice among shoppers.
Best Affordable:Nature's Way Niacinamide Capsules
The Nature’s Way Niacinamide Capsules are carefully tested and support cellular energy production. They promote the normal breakdown of fats and the release of energy from carbohydrates. You can take one capsule daily with food to see noticeable changes in your skin health and conditions prescribed. However, avoid this product if you are pregnant or undergoing treatment for any medical issues.
Note: Do not consume these capsules unless prescribed by the doctor.
- Gluten-free
- Affordable
- May cause heartburn
Best Allergen-Free:Thorne Niacinamide Dietary Supplement
The Thorne Niacinamide Dietary Supplement is beneficial for your skin and overall health. It supports restful sleep and takes care of your joint health. It also protects beta cells in the pancreas. The formulation is free of all harmful ingredients, making it one of the safest and purest options available. The supplements are also free of allergens like eggs, tree nuts, peanuts, soy, dairy, yeast, shellfish, or fish. These supplements are tested and verified for safety. Some Amazon reviewers suggest that this supplement helps them manage their anxiety while clearing up their skin.
Note: Do not consume it unless prescribed by the doctor.
- Gluten-free
- Formulated with pure ingredients
- Allergen-free
None
Naturium Niacinamide Serum Best Non-Toxic | Nature's Way Niacinamide Capsules Best Affordable | Thorne Niacinamide Dietary Supplement Best Allergen-Free | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | Oily, Combination, Acne Prone, Dry, Normal | - | - |
| Dimensions | 1.4 x 1.4 x 5.4 inches | 6 x 3 x 3 inches | 2.58 x 2.58 x 4.94 inches |
| Weight | 4.64 Ounces | 3.36 Ounces | 0.02 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 1,421 | 582 | 130 |
| Price | $16.49 | $9.49 | $22 |
| Buy Now | Buy Now | Buy Now |
Best pH-Balanced:Naturium Niacinamide Gel Cream 5%
The Naturium Niacinamide Gel Cream 5% helps fade dark spots and improves the skin texture. The formula combines coconut fruit juice, phytonutrients, electrolytes, and amino acids that promote skin elasticity. Its formulation reduces redness, leaving your skin looking smoother. This favorite niacinamide is exclusively crafted and optimized to work with the physiological process of the skin to deliver visible results. The clean formulation contains the highest-quality botanical, earth, and marine-based ingredients to keep the skin healthy.
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- No synthetic fragrances
- pH-balanced
- Dermatologist-tested
- Contains phenoxyethanol
"This moisturizer consistently enhances my skin's radiance and texture. Its lightweight and gel-like consistency spreads easily and does not leave greasy residues. I usually layer it with some other products like a rich sunscreen. It does not trigger any specific skin concerns or make my skin appear coarse and dry."
Quick TipApply creams or any other skin care products on damp skin to increase absorption and efficacy.
Best Vegan:Joyal Beauty Vitamin B3 B5 Serum
This Vitamin B3 B5 Serum by Joyal Beauty contains hyaluronic acid and zinc that offers a fresh boost of hydration to your skin. This niacinamide serum formulation also contains 5% niacin that evens out your skin tone and improves fine lines and wrinkles. Zinc is beneficial for those who have acne-prone and sensitive skin. This serum suits almost all skin types. Reviewers love this serum as it gets absorbed seamlessly into the skin to provide moisturization.
- 100% vegan
- Suits all skin types
- Offers hydrating benefits
None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
There are more than 1,007 Amazon reviews attesting to the quality of the product and endorsing its value.
Best Quick Absorbing:Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops
Brighten your skin with the Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops. It is powered by niacinamide, which evens out skin tone, reduces hyperpigmentation, and minimizes pore appearance. The vitamin-rich watermelon intensely hydrates your skin and fights free radical damage for a youthful appearance. In addition, moringa seed oil infused in the serum calms the skin. Amazon reviews suggest that including this product in your every day routine will help make your skin glow and prime it properly for makeup application. Check out the video review on this fast-absorbing product to know why it is one of the best ones out there.
- Absorbed quickly
- Paraben-free
- Alcohol-free
- Sulfate-free
- Mineral oiL-free
- Phthalate-free
- Synthetic dye-free
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Sensitive skin may need to do patch test
Best Hypoallergenic:CeraVe Facial Moisturizing Lotion PM
CeraVe is a big name in the cosmetic industry, and here’s another product from their range that is a big hit. This facial moisturizing cream is best for your night-time routine. Along with 4% niacinamide concentration, it has other skin rejuvenating ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid.This non-irritating formula is suitable for daily use. After cleansing and toning your face, apply this lightweight lotion and let it do its magic. You will start to see a difference in just a few weeks. If you want to know more about the merits of the CeraVe Facial Moisturizing Lotion PM, click on this YouTube video for a detailed review.
- Lightweight formula
- Rejuvenates your skin
- Non-comedogenic
- Maintains skin’s natural barrier
- Hypoallergenic
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The overwhelming 3,540 positive reviews on Amazon show how popular this product is with happy users.
Best For Discoloration:Dr. Jart+ Dermask Brightening Solution Ultra-Fine Microfiber Face Sheet Mask
If you are looking for a quick 20-minute rejuvenation routine that can help tone your skin evenly, brighten it, and decrease fatigue, here’s a mask with niacinamide that you need. It is mixed with other powerful multitasking antioxidants like glutathione and bisabolol that has brightening benefits on your skin almost instantly by reducing pigmentation and discoloration. This antioxidant protection fights free radicals and promotes a healthier complexion. Use this mask a few times a month for visible results.
Brightens up your complexion
- Reduces pigmentation
- Fades dark spots
- Offers youthful-looking skin
RememberDo not wash your face after using a sheet mask. The liquid from the sheet masks contains essential ingredients; massage them into the skin.
Best Brightening:Biopelle KNR Serum
Biopelle Serum is packed with three of the most effective skin repairing agents – kojic acid, niacinamide, and retinol. These are mixed with peptides and other ingredients that brighten, repair, and even out skin complexion. It also brightens the under-eye area. KNR Serum is formulated with a patented Retinsphere® liposomal delivery technology that helps this clinically-proven serum penetrate the skin easily and optimize retinol’s efficacy. Use it twice a day, and follow it up with sunscreen when you step out.
- Minimizes hyperpigmentation
- Protects skin against skin damage
- Prevents future skin damage
- Brightens skin tone
Best Lightweight:First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream Intense Hydration
This is an ultra-hydrating moisturizer. It specifically targets dehydrated, flaky skin, and other extreme conditions like eczema and rosacea. Apart from niacinamide, the cream contains colloidal oatmeal, shea butter, ceramide 3, and specially formulated antioxidant boosters that give instant relief.
- Lightweight
- Non-greasy texture
- Clinically-proven
- Suitable for all skin types
- Suitable for acne or rosacea-prone skin
- Cruelty-free and gluten-free
- Vegan
- Free from artificial fragrances
- Dermatologist-tested
None
"This moisturizer is easy to apply and does not leave behind any greasy or sticky residue. I like how it gets absorbed easily. It gives me deep hydration while controlling sebum."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 1,828 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.
Best For Refining Pores:Eva Naturals 12% Niacinamide + 2% Zinc Serum for Face
The Eva Naturals 12% Niacinamide Serum reduces the appearance of pores and wrinkles. It is infused with niacinamide, zinc, and hyaluronic acid to calm and hydrate the skin. Organic aloe in the formula treats skin burns, while antioxidant-rich extracts help repair and protect the skin from inflammation and free radical damage. It also has vitamin E to soften the skin and prevent it from drying. This lightweight serum is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin types. It is free from harsh chemicals and delivers visible results.
- Lightweight
- Pleasant fragrance
- Nourishing
- Evens out your skin tone
- Reduces skin inflammation
None
Best Moisturizing:Paula's Choice BOOST 10% Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) Booster
Paula’s Choice Serum contains 10% niacinamide and is a skin health booster in the most dramatic sense. This ultra-light sheer liquid formula can be used as a stand-alone serum or followed up with other serums – depending on your skincare routine. And this favorite product gets absorbed in just a few seconds and spreads easily.
- Reduces enlarged pores
- Treats skin issues
- Restores your skin tone
- Moisturizes roughness and dryness
- Minimizes fine lines and wrinkles
None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has received 128 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.
Best For Reducing Blemishes: QRxLabs NiacinaMax Serum
The QRxLabs NiacinaMax Serum helps to improve the overall skin texture. It is formulated with 10% pure niacinamide, renowned for its ability to help reduce the appearance of blemishes, enlarged pores, and excess oil. Tea tree oil, vitamin B5, and calendula extract in the formula heal damaged skin. These powerful natural ingredients work together to enhance dermal penetration, allowing the serum to deeply penetrate the skin and deliver maximum benefits. This nourishing serum is suitable for all skin types and can be used daily to achieve clearer, smoother, and healthier-looking skin.
- Improves skin texture
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Silicone-free
- Suitable for all skin types
- Eco-friendly packaging
None
Best Dermatologist Recommended:The Ordinary Niacinamide 10%
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% serum reduces blemishes and controls breakouts. It contains zinc that controls sebum production, and hence prevents acne. If you have severe acne, use it along with other serums recommended by your dermatologist. But make sure you talk to your dermatologist about this new addition to your skincare routine. This serum for acne treatment has achieved proven efficacy due to its clinical formulations. It provides visible results with suitable use.
- Reduces blemishes
- Controls breakouts
- Cures and prevents acne
- Minimizes the look of enlarged pores
None
Best Hydrating:Biossance Squalane + Peptide Eye Gel
Biossance Squalane+Peptide Eye Gel is a weightless and hydrating under-eye gel that is gentle on the skin. Niacinamide is combined with other peptides that reduce puffiness and the dark color around your eyes, making you visibly fresher.
- Weightless formula
- Feels gentle on your skin
- Reduces under-eye puffiness
- Removes dark circles
None
Every skin needs a different nourishing approach. Although niacinamide is a proven ingredient to soothe the skin, it’s best to know about the factors to consider before investing in the a product to get better results. Given below is a buying guide to help select the best niacinamide products to fulfill your skin care needs.
How To Choose The Best Niacinamide Products For A Healthy Skin Barrier
- Skin Type: Skin type is one of the most critical factors in choosing the best concentration of niacinamide product. The majority of niacinamide products suit all skin types. They are also suitable for sensitive, acne-prone, and mature skin because they have anti-inflammatory properties. Choose a solution that is non-comedogenic if you have oily, acne-prone skin. A product with additional hydrating and skin-plumping components like hyaluronic acid, avocado oil, and butter will benefit dry skin type. Those with sensitive skin issues should stick to hypoallergenic solutions that have passed dermatological testing standards.
- Ingredients: Look for skin care ingredients like hyaluronic acid, zinc, glycerin, allantoin, essential oils, and botanical extracts in skincare products for hydration and nourishment. Additionally, search for antioxidants such as vitamins E, A, and C, as well as extracts of neem seeds, chamomile, and green tea leaves. In addition to niacinamide, these active components have antibacterial, anti-aging, and skin-renewal properties. Avoid substances that could hurt your skin, such as alcohol, parabens, sulfates, mineral oils, and synthetic fragrances.
- Texture: To avoid blotting, choose a lightweight texture that is easy to absorb. A rich, creamy texture is essential for a nourishing niacinamide formulation that heals and regenerates skin overnight. Choose a niacinamide product with the consistency you prefer depending on the target use and duration, to ensure your skin is sufficiently moisturized and hydrated.
- Concentration: Niacinamide at a concentration of 5% is the recommended dosage because it is safe and most effective. Choose serums with niacinamide levels close to 5%. Although it takes them longer to produce the desired results, they are still safer than 10 or 12%. Niacinamide excess with moderate to severe adverse effects may result from higher dosages.
These are the best niacinamide products that you can buy online. This skin care ingredient offers multiple skin benefits. Let’s take a look.
What Are The Benefits Of Niacinamide For The Skin?
Irrespective of your skin type, niacinamide offers relief to most of your skin problems. Studies have shown that niacinamide can act as an antioxidant, improve epidermal barrier function and skin elasticity, and reduce skin hyperpigmentation, fine lines, wrinkles, redness/blotchiness, and skin yellowness (sallowness) (2).
Skin care products with niacinamide have the following benefits:
- Control Excess Oil Production
Niacinamide is said to regulate excess oil production. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that make it an ideal solution for acne concerns.
- Reduces Hyperpigmentation
Niacinamide helps in lightening dark spots while encouraging collagen production. According to a clinical study, 5% niacinamide can minimize hyperpigmentation in eight weeks (2).
- Strengthens The Skin Barrier
Niacinamide renews your skin and works as a shield against moisture loss and dehydration. Hence, it is one of the best options for those with dry skin.
- Improves Fine Lines And Wrinkles
Niacinamide boosts collagen and protein production. This improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and prevents premature aging caused by dehydration, sun damage, and environmental aggressors (2).
- Improves Acne
Niacinamide has anti-inflammatory properties, and when applied topically, it helps minimize acne and calm rosacea-prone skin (3). It also neutralizes the impact of free radical damage and keeps the skin healthy.
Infographic: How To Add Niacinamide Products To Your Skin Care Routine
If you are new to niacinamide products, you need to keep a few things in mind before using them. Knowing how to incorporate it into your beauty routine can help you achieve the best results. Check out the infographic below to know simple and effective ways to make the most of the products.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Niacinamide or vitamin B3 helps your skin stay healthy. It improves cellular energy, contains antibacterial properties, and can also improve facial skin. From serums to gel creams, and from dietary supplements to dewy drops, the best niacinamide skin care product improves your skin tone, fine lines, and wrinkles and promotes skin’s elasticity. The Naturium Niacinamide Serum is a great choice as it hydrates the skin, minimizes oil production and evens skin tone, while the Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops reduces hyperigmentation and brightens skin. If you are looking for a lightweight, skin-rejuvenating lotion for your night routine, then try the CeraVe Facial Moisturizing Lotion PM. These products make your skin plump, give a youthful appearance, minimize the open pores, and improve your complexion. And it would be best to invest in products that are gentle on the skin.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Oyendrila Kanjilal, is a certified skin care coach. Her passion lies in trying out different beauty products that help the skin function properly. For this article, she spoke to dermatologists, read numerous online reviews, and put together a list of the best niacinamide products for the readers. In addition, Oyendrila considered various quality parameters and user requirements and selected products that are mostly chemical-free and rejuvenate dull skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which types of skin will benefit from niacinamide?
Niacinamide is beneficial for all skin types.
Does niacinamide work with vitamin C?
Yes, niacinamide can be combined with vitamin C products. This will not irritate the skin.
How long to use niacinamide to get results?
It may take 8-12 weeks to deliver visible results.
Are there any side effects of using niacinamide?
Taking niacinamide supplements may cause heartburn, rash, dizziness, and upset the stomach. Topically, niacinamide does not cause any major side effects.
What works best with niacinamide?
Niacinamide is compatible with many products such as HA, AHA/BHA, peptides, retinol, and certain antioxidants. If used together, they can improve skin radiance and skin tone, and protect your skin from UV damage.
Should I use niacinamide everyday?
Yes, niacinamide is a gentle ingredient that can be used every day. Dermatologists recommend using niacinamide-based products in the morning as well as at night. Opt for lightweight formulas that your skin can absorb easily.
What should you not mix with niacinamide?
It is debatable whether niacinamide and vitamin C are compatible, but dermatologists suggest avoiding this combination. These ingredients can neutralize the effect of each other and create nicotinic acid, leading to redness and inflammation.
What percentage of niacinamide is best?
Two to ten percent of niacinamide is best for skin care products. Using more than that can cause skin sensitivity, such as irritation and redness.
References
Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.
- “Niacinamide: A B vitamin that improves aging…”. US National Library of Medicine.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16029679/ - How Much Do We Really Know About Our Favorite Cosmeceutical Ingredients?
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2921764/ - Niacinamide-containing facial moisturizer improves skin barrier and benefits subjects with rosacea
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16209160/
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