Ingredient library / Vitamin
Niacinamide.
Also on labels as: Nicotinamide · Vitamin B3
Quick answer
What is niacinamide?
Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 used in serums, moisturisers, sunscreens and tints. Studies associate it with a more even-looking tone, less visible redness and blotchiness, and support for the skin barrier. It is generally well tolerated, which is why it appears in so many everyday formulas.
What it does
- Helps skin look more even in tone, including the look of blotchiness and redness
- Supports the skin barrier and helps limit water loss
- Appears in oil-control formulas for skin that looks shiny through the day
Who it suits
Most skin types, including oily, combination and sensitive skin. It is a useful first active for people new to serums.
How to use it
- Use morning, evening or both; follow the product’s directions
- Apply after cleansing and water-based steps, before moisturiser
- Finish with sunscreen in the morning
Take care
- Higher strengths (around 10%) can feel tingly or cause flushing on reactive skin — patch test first
- Stop if skin stings persistently, and ask a pharmacist if irritation continues
What it pairs with
Pairs well with hyaluronic acid, ceramides and sunscreen. Older advice warned against using it with vitamin C; follow each product’s directions, as some brands still recommend keeping them in separate routines.
General information, not medical advice. For a skin condition, pregnancy or persistent irritation, speak to a pharmacist, GP or dermatologist.
In the catalogue
Products listing niacinamide.
The Ordinary · Skin prep
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
The treat step under Couture glass skin when shine and texture need quieting before light hits the face.
Beauty of Joseon · SPF
Relief Sun: Rice + Niacinamide SPF50+
The UK and EU Relief Sun formula: a dewy protect layer that keeps skin reading as skin under a sheer base.
La Roche-Posay · Skin prep
0.3% Retinol + Vitamin B3 Serum
A measured evening retinol at the 0.3% level — a night-routine treatment, kept apart from daytime base.
Round Lab · SPF
Birch Juice Moisturizing Sun Cream SPF50+ PA++++
The moisturising cream in the Korean SPF edit: one comfortable layer between skincare and a sheer base.
SKIN1004 · SPF
Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum
A serum-weight protect step with a dewy surface for base to sit on — sun protection that should not show up in the photograph.
COSRX · SPF
Ultra-Light Invisible Sunscreen SPF50 PA++++
A sheer fluid protect step designed to disappear, whether the face is bare or under a skin tint.
e.l.f. Cosmetics · Complexion
Halo Glow Skin Tint SPF 50
A light-coverage option for comparing tints by finish and shade availability, with the sunscreen directions kept visible.
ILIA · Complexion
Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40
Skin-first tint for couture glass reads when full foundation is too much.
Saie · Complexion
Slip Tint
Dewy prep-and-tint in one step — useful under wet-lip, low-makeup casting photos.
Estée Lauder · Complexion
Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation SPF 10
The long-wear matte reference for oily skin — build it only where coverage is needed so the face still reads as skin.
TIRTIR · Complexion
Mask Fit Red Cushion
A cult-status K-beauty pick the Beauty Desk keeps returning to for its shade range alone.
Read further
Sources.
Niacinamide, answered
What does niacinamide do for skin?
- It is used to help skin look more even in tone and less red, and to support the skin barrier. A 2005 study in Dermatologic Surgery reported improvements in the appearance of fine lines, blotchiness and redness with topical niacinamide.
Can I use niacinamide every day?
- Yes, most formulas are designed for daily use, morning and evening. Start with one product and a lower strength if your skin is sensitive.
Is niacinamide the same as vitamin B3?
- Niacinamide (nicotinamide) is one form of vitamin B3. On ingredient lists it usually appears as “niacinamide”.