✨ Niacinamide Serum Review｜Top Picks for Clear, Bright & Balanced Skin
If there’s one skincare ingredient that has earned a permanent spot in routines around the world, it’s niacinamide. Also known as vitamin B3, niacinamide is a multitasking powerhouse: it brightens dull skin, reduces redness, controls excess oil, minimizes pores, and strengthens the skin barrier.
But with so many serums on the market, how do you know which one is right for you? In this review, we’ll cover the best niacinamide serums for different skin concerns, from acne and oil control to dryness and pigmentation.
Whether you’re new to actives or already a niacinamide fan, this guide will help you find your perfect match. 🌿
🥇 1. The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
Best For: Oily and acne-prone skin
Key Ingredients: Niacinamide 10%, Zinc PCA 1%
Texture: Lightweight, watery serum
Probably the most famous niacinamide serum in the world. The Ordinary keeps it simple with a high concentration of niacinamide to reduce sebum and minimize pores, paired with zinc for extra oil control.
Why We Love It:
| ✅ Affordable and effective |
| ✅ Helps fade blemishes and redness |
| ✅ Oil-balancing formula |
⚠️ Note: Beginners may experience dryness or irritation at 10% — start slowly!
🥈 2. Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster
Best For: Enlarged pores, uneven tone
Key Ingredients: Niacinamide 10%, Licorice Root Extract, Antioxidants
Texture: Silky, light booster (mixable)
This serum is a luxury option for those looking to refine pores and brighten skin. Unlike The Ordinary, Paula’s Choice adds soothing ingredients and antioxidants for extra skin benefits. You can use it alone or mix it with your moisturizer.
Why We Love It:
| 🌟 Gentle yet potent |
| 🌟 Improves texture and radiance |
| 🌟 Fragrance-free, dermatologist-developed |
🥉 3. Good Molecules Niacinamide Serum
Best For: Budget-friendly, sensitive skin
Key Ingredients: Niacinamide 10%
Texture: Lightweight, fast-absorbing
An affordable competitor to The Ordinary, but with a more hydrating and smoother texture. It helps balance oil, fade acne scars, and even skin tone — all at a very wallet-friendly price point.
Why We Love It:
| 💚 Great for beginners |
| 💚 Works well under makeup |
| 💚 Gentle formula, no irritation |
⭐ 4. Inkey List Niacinamide
Best For: Redness, early breakouts, dullness
Key Ingredients: Niacinamide 10%, Hyaluronic Acid
Texture: Slightly thicker gel-serum
A no-frills serum with niacinamide plus hyaluronic acid for hydration. If your skin is easily dehydrated but still needs oil control, this is a balanced choice.
Why We Love It:
| ✨ Hydrating + balancing combo |
| ✨ Suitable for all skin types |
| ✨ Travel-friendly packaging |
💎 5. Naturium Niacinamide Serum 12% + Zinc 2%
Best For: Stubborn hyperpigmentation, visible pores
Key Ingredients: Niacinamide 12%, Zinc PCA 2%, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin E
Texture: Smooth, serum-gel consistency
A higher strength niacinamide serum, but with added hydrating and antioxidant ingredients to reduce irritation. Naturium is known for clean formulations and effective actives.
Why We Love It:
| 🌼 Strong yet gentle |
| 🌼 Fades dark spots over time |
| 🌼 Cruelty-free and vegan |
💡 How to Use Niacinamide Serum
| ✅ Apply after cleansing and toning, before heavy serums/creams |
| ✅ Can be used both morning and night |
| ✅ Safe to combine with retinol, peptides, hyaluronic acid |
| ✅ Avoid layering high-strength vitamin C directly with niacinamide |
| ✅ Always patch test if using for the first time |
✨ Final Thoughts
Niacinamide isn’t just a trend — it’s a scientifically proven ingredient that works for nearly every skin type. From drugstore favorites like The Ordinary to premium formulas like Paula’s Choice, there’s a niacinamide serum for every budget and skin need.
If you’re struggling with oiliness, redness, or uneven tone, adding a niacinamide serum to your routine might be the simplest and most effective step you can take.
Glowy, balanced, and healthy skin is just a few drops away 🌟