Niacinamide Serum: 15 Best Picks for Clear, Even Skin (2025)

Niacinamide is one of those powerhouse ingredients you see everywhere, and for good reason. This form of vitamin B3 is a true multitasker, beloved by dermatologists and skincare fans for its ability to tackle everything from oiliness and large pores to uneven skin tone and fine lines. A great niacinamide serum can be a game changer, helping you achieve clearer, more balanced skin. Whether you are new to the ingredient or looking for your next holy grail product, this guide will break down everything you need to know.

What Is Niacinamide (and How Is It Different From Niacin)?

At its core, niacinamide is a water soluble vitamin that works with the natural substances in your skin. Its benefits are extensive. It’s known for helping to visibly minimize and tighten enlarged pores, regulate oil production, and improve uneven skin tone. Plus, it can soften the look of fine lines and wrinkles, reduce dullness, and strengthen your skin’s natural barrier. This makes it an incredibly versatile ingredient for almost every skin type and concern, especially for those looking to manage hyperpigmentation and achieve a more balanced complexion.

You may have also heard of niacin, another form of vitamin B3. While they come from the same vitamin family, they are not exactly the same. Your body can actually make niacinamide if you consume too much niacin. In skincare, niacinamide is the preferred choice because it delivers brightening and barrier strengthening benefits without the potential for flushing or redness that high doses of niacin can sometimes cause.

Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Niacinamide Product

Choosing the right niacinamide product comes down to a few key factors. Consider these points to find the perfect match for your skin goals.

Concentration

The percentage of niacinamide matters. Studies show that concentrations as low as 5% can be very effective for improving skin texture and discoloration. Many popular serums contain 10%, which is great for targeting more stubborn concerns. Higher concentrations exist, but they can sometimes lead to irritation for sensitive skin types, so it’s often best to start lower.

Supporting Ingredients

Niacinamide plays well with others. Look for formulas that include complementary ingredients to boost the benefits.

• Hyaluronic Acid: Provides a surge of hydration to plump the skin.

• Antioxidants: Ingredients like Vitamin C and licorice root help brighten the skin and protect it from environmental stressors.

• Bakuchiol: A plant based retinol alternative that helps with skin texture and signs of aging.

Finding products that combine these actives can simplify your routine. Some modern formulas, like the Superhue Hyperpigmentation Serum Stick, pack niacinamide, bakuchiol, and Vitamin C into one easy to use product to effectively target dark spots.

Formula and Testing

Look for a niacinamide serum that is dermatologist tested and non comedogenic to ensure it won’t clog your pores. The texture should be lightweight and absorb easily, allowing you to layer other products on top without pilling.

Choosing Your Product Type: Serum, Moisturizer, or Stick?

Niacinamide is available in many formats, and the best one depends on your routine and goals.

• Serums are lightweight and deliver a high concentration of the active ingredient deep into the skin, making them ideal for targeting specific concerns like dark spots or large pores.

• Moisturizers with niacinamide are great for streamlining your routine, offering hydration and treatment in one step. They are perfect for maintaining overall skin health and barrier support.

• Stick applicators, like the Superhue Hyperpigmentation Serum Stick, provide targeted, mess free application directly onto areas of concern, such as post acne marks or sun spots. This format is also convenient for travel.

Do You Need a Dedicated Niacinamide Serum?

With niacinamide now appearing in everything from cleansers to sunscreens, you might wonder if a separate serum is still necessary. The answer depends on your skin goals.

If your primary concerns are stubborn hyperpigmentation, persistent oiliness, or significantly enlarged pores, a dedicated niacinamide serum with a concentration of 5% or higher is likely your most effective option. These formulas are designed to deliver a potent, targeted dose of the ingredient for faster, more noticeable results.

However, if your skin is generally balanced and you are looking for overall brightness and barrier support, a moisturizer or multi ingredient product containing niacinamide may be sufficient. Many people find success by incorporating niacinamide into their routine through a product that also contains other beneficial ingredients, simplifying their regimen without sacrificing benefits.

How the Serums Were Tested

To build our recommendations, we focused on what truly matters in a skincare product. Formulas were analyzed for their niacinamide concentration and the quality of their supporting ingredients. We also considered overall texture, how well the product absorbed, and its suitability for different skin types, including sensitive and acne prone skin. Finally, consumer reviews and brand reputation were reviewed to ensure our top picks deliver real results.

Top 15 Niacinamide Serum Picks for Clear, Balanced Skin

Now that you understand the powerhouse benefits of niacinamide, it’s time to find the perfect formula to add to your routine. To help you navigate the options, we’ve curated a list of the top 15 niacinamide serums celebrated for their ability to deliver a clearer, more balanced complexion. This selection spans various concentrations and formulations to address a wide range of skin concerns and budgets.

1. Live Tinted Superhue Hyperpigmentation Serum Stick

This clever balm to serum stick makes brightening a breeze. Swipe it on exactly where you need it, then watch it melt into skin without mess or residue. A strategic trio of niacinamide, THD vitamin C, and tranexamic acid goes after stubborn spots while keeping your barrier calm. Best On the Go Dark Spot Serum

Key ingredients

• Niacinamide (5%): Evens skin tone and supports barrier strength.

• THD Vitamin C (1%): Stable antioxidant that brightens dullness and discoloration.

• Tranexamic Acid: Targets post acne marks and dark spots.

• Bakuchiol (1%): Retinol alternative that smooths texture.

• Licorice Root: Calms and visibly brightens.

Texture, layering & performance
Glides on like a balm, then melts into a serum veil with no greasiness or pilling, just a soft focus finish that plays well under SPF and makeup. Fragrance free, vegan, and dermatologist tested, it’s gentle enough for melanin rich and sensitive skin while still tackling stubborn spots over time.

Skin types & how to use: Great for melanin rich, spot prone, or sensitive skin. Apply a thin layer over targeted areas once daily after cleansing, before moisturizer and SPF. If using strong actives elsewhere, alternate days and patch test first.

2. Sunday Riley B3 Nice 10% Niacinamide Serum

A high strength, silky niacinamide serum that takes on shine, uneven tone, and the look of enlarged pores without sacrificing comfort. With smart brighteners and soothing antioxidants, it’s a power play for clearer looking skin. Best for Dark Spots + Pore Refinement

Key ingredients

• 10% Niacinamide: Balances oil, refines pores, and evens tone.

• Brightenyl & Trans resveratrol: Advanced brighteners for visible dark spot reduction.

• EGCG & Centella Fractions: Antioxidant soothers that ease redness.

Texture, layering & performance
This milky serum texture sinks in fast and leaves a satin, non sticky finish that layers cleanly under moisturizer, SPF, and makeup. The formula targets multiple pathways of discoloration and redness while keeping the barrier calm, ideal for daily use without worrying about pilling.

Skin types & how to use: Best for oily, combo, and acne prone skin, including melanin rich tones managing PIH. Apply a few drops AM and/or PM before moisturizer. Plays well with vitamin C and gentle acids; patch test if sensitive.

3. COSRX 15% Niacinamide Face Serum

When oil and congestion won’t quit, this high strength formula brings the heat without the sting. A smart blend of niacinamide, NAG, and zinc PCA clarifies, balances, and fades the look of stubborn post blemish marks. Best High Strength for Oily/Acne Prone Skin

Key ingredients

• Niacinamide (15%): Calms blemishes, reduces oil look, and targets post acne marks.

• N Acetylglucosamine (NAG): Teams up with niacinamide to smooth texture and brighten.

• Zinc PCA: Helps curb sebum and soothe.

• Allantoin: Comforts and supports the barrier.

Texture, layering & performance
Water light and fragrance free, it absorbs quickly and layers under skincare and makeup without stickiness. Non comedogenic tested, it’s built to clear while keeping skin comfortable.

Skin types & how to use: Ideal for oily, combo, and acne prone skin with visible pores or PIH. Use AM/PM after cleansing, before moisturizer; always follow with SPF in the morning. Patch test due to the high concentration.

4. The Inkey List Niacinamide Oil Control Serum

Shine control and skin smoothing in a single, budget friendly step. This no fuss formula tackles T zone slickness and uneven tone while keeping your barrier happy. Best for Oily & Combination Skin

Key ingredients

• Niacinamide (10%): Balances oil, softens the look of blemishes, and calms redness.

• Hyaluronic Acid (1%): Lightweight, multi level hydration.

• Squalane: Cushions and supports the barrier.

Texture, layering & performance
A water light gel that absorbs fast to a satin finish with zero tack. Fragrance free and designed to layer seamlessly under other skincare, mineral SPF, and makeup, it brings just enough hydration to feel comfortable, never greasy.

Skin types & how to use: Perfect for oily, combo, and acne prone skin (including sensitive). Apply AM/PM post cleanse, pre moisturizer. Let it fully absorb to avoid pilling; alternate with strong vitamin C or acids.

5. The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

A cult classic for a reason: this streamlined serum dials down shine, visibly tightens pores, and brightens the look of uneven tone without extra frills or irritants. Best for Oil Control and Visible Pores

Key ingredients

• Niacinamide (10%): Helps balance oil, refine the look of pores, and even tone.

• Zinc PCA (1%): Supports sebum regulation for clearer looking skin.

Texture, layering & performance
Lightweight, water based, and silicone free, it absorbs quickly and layers cleanly under moisturizer and SPF. Fragrance free, oil free, and non comedogenic, it’s an accessible daily staple for shine prone, breakout prone complexions.

Skin types & how to use: Great for combo, oily, and acne prone skin dealing with post blemish marks. Apply a few drops AM/PM after cleansing, before creams. The brand suggests alternating with vitamin C. Patch test first.

6. First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Niacinamide Dark Spot Serum

Gentle doesn’t mean timid. This silky, fragrance free brightening serum pairs niacinamide with calming, radiance boosting botanicals to fade the look of spots without ruffling sensitive skin. Best for Sensitive Skin

Key ingredients

• Niacinamide: Evens tone and refines pores while supporting the barrier.

• Licorice Root: Calms and brightens to diminish post blemish marks.

• Golden Kiwifruit: Antioxidant rich with natural vitamin C.

Texture, layering & performance
Lightweight and fast absorbing, it slips under moisturizer, SPF, and makeup with ease, with no pilling, just smooth luminosity. Vegan, cruelty free, and derm tested for reactive skin.

Skin types & how to use: For all skin types, including sensitive, managing sun spots, PIH, or uneven tone. Apply AM/PM before moisturizer; pairs well with vitamin C and retinoids. Patch test first.

7. IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Dark Spots 4% Niacinamide Serum

A gentle but effective duo of 4% niacinamide and 1% ethyl vitamin C helps visibly fade discoloration while respecting sensitive skin. With a water light feel, it slides into any routine effortlessly. Best for Dark Spots and Post Acne Marks

Key ingredients

• Niacinamide (4%): Smooths tone and softens post acne marks.

• Ethyl Vitamin C (1%): Brightens and defends with less irritation.

• Salicylic Acid: Gently exfoliates to keep pores clear.

Texture, layering & performance
The light, quick absorbing texture layers well under moisturizer, SPF, and makeup without pilling. Dermatologist tested, it’s designed to deliver visible brightening while staying friendly to most skin.

Skin types & how to use: Ideal for normal, oily, and combo skin with hyperpigmentation. Apply 4 to 5 drops AM/PM before moisturizer and SPF. Contains fragrance; patch test if sensitive and alternate with retinoids as needed.

8. Neutrogena Hydro Boost + Niacinamide Fragrance Free Serum

Hydration and clarity in one step: this gel serum floods skin with moisture while 10% niacinamide and NAG visibly even tone and refine the look of pores. Best Drugstore Hydrating Serum

Key ingredients

• Niacinamide (10%): Brightens and supports the moisture barrier.

• N Acetyl Glucosamine: Complements niacinamide to improve dark spots and texture.

• Hyaluronic Acid: Lightweight, lasting hydration.

Texture, layering & performance
Silky and non sticky, it absorbs quickly and sits cleanly under moisturizer and sunscreen with no cast and no pilling. Fragrance, dye, and paraben free, it’s a derm friendly staple for daily radiance.

Skin types & how to use: Great for normal, combo, or oily skin with dehydration and PIH. Apply a few drops AM/PM before moisturizer; pairs nicely with vitamin C. Patch test around strong retinoids or acids.

9. Paula’s Choice Clinical Niacinamide 20% Treatment

When pores are stubborn and texture is rough, this high octane treatment brings a smoothing, refining boost. It’s powerful yet elegant, with a fast absorbing gel that slips into any routine. Best for stubborn pores

Key ingredients

• Niacinamide (20%): Visibly tightens stretched pores and smooths texture.

• Acetyl Glucosamine: Brightens and supports even tone.

• Vitamin C & Licorice: Antioxidants that help fade discoloration.

Texture, layering & performance
Light liquid gel with a clean, non sticky finish that layers under moisturizer, sunscreen, and makeup AM or PM. Alcohol and fragrance free, it helps improve blotchy tone and “orange peel” texture.

Skin types & how to use: Best for oily, combo, or acne prone skin with enlarged pores. Patch test, then start once daily after cleansing, before moisturizer/SPF. Works alongside vitamin C and most acids.

10. Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster

A customizable, water light booster that drops into any routine to visibly refine pores, balance oil, and brighten post blemish marks without changing how your favorite moisturizer feels. Best for visible pores and post acne marks

Key ingredients

• Niacinamide (10%): Targets enlarged pores and excess oil.

• N Acetyl Glucosamine & Ascorbyl Glucoside: Brighten to fade uneven tone and PIH.

• Licorice, Allantoin & Panthenol: Calm and reduce visible redness.

Texture, layering & performance
Fragrance free, ultra thin liquid absorbs instantly with no tack and no pilling, ideal under mineral SPF and makeup. Use it straight on skin or mix 2 to 3 drops into serum or moisturizer for a seamless boost.

Skin types & how to use: Excellent for combo, oily, and acne prone skin focused on pores and lingering marks. Use AM/PM after cleansing. Follow with sunscreen in the morning.

11. La Roche Posay Mela B3 Dark Spot Corrector Serum

Clinically minded and tone respecting, this serum pairs 10% niacinamide with Melasyl, an 18 years in the making brightener, to target stubborn dark spots while supporting your barrier. Best for stubborn dark spots

Key ingredients

• Niacinamide (10%): Fades discoloration and strengthens the barrier.

• Melasyl: Proprietary molecule that helps prevent new spots.

• LHA (Capryloyl Salicylic Acid): Gently exfoliates for smoother texture.

Texture, layering & performance
Lightweight, allergy tested, and non comedogenic, it layers comfortably under moisturizer and SPF without clogging pores. Includes soothing thermal water; note it contains fragrance.

Skin types & how to use: Suitable for all tones and types, including melanin rich and acne prone. Apply 3 to 4 drops AM/PM before moisturizer; always use broad spectrum SPF in the morning. Patch test if sensitive.

12. Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops

Part serum, part glow primer, this mica free formula delivers instant glass skin radiance while niacinamide works behind the scenes to brighten and refine. Best Under Makeup

Key ingredients

• Niacinamide: Visibly brightens and supports the barrier.

• Watermelon Extract: Hydrating, vitamin rich radiance booster.

• Hyaluronic Acid: Draws in moisture for bouncy skin.

• Moringa Seed Oil: Lightweight softness without clogging.

Texture, layering & performance
A lightweight gel that absorbs fast to a glossy, non shimmery sheen. Layers cleanly under SPF and makeup, and can be tapped over foundation as a highlight. Vegan, cruelty free, and ophthalmologist tested.

Skin types & how to use: For all skin types seeking radiance and tone evening. Use one pump as serum before moisturizer or two pumps as a last step pre makeup. Pairs well with vitamin C; patch test if fragrance sensitive.

13. Dr. Idriss Major Fade Hyper Serum

A multi pathway brightening strategy in one lightweight emulsion. Niacinamide teams up with alpha arbutin, kojic acid, and licorice to tackle stubborn hyperpigmentation and visible redness without harshness. Best for Stubborn Dark Spots

Key ingredients

• Niacinamide (~5%): Strengthens the barrier and evens tone.

• Alpha Arbutin & Kojic Acid: Fade the look of dark spots.

• Diglucosyl Gallic Acid: Advanced brightener that also calms redness.

• Licorice Root: Soothes and supports uniformity.

Texture, layering & performance
Featherweight with a subtle, illuminating finish that layers smoothly under makeup and SPF. Fragrance free and non irritating, it’s built for consistency and comfort.

Skin types & how to use: For all tones and types facing PIH or persistent discoloration. Apply 2 to 4 pumps AM/PM before moisturizer and SPF. Compatible with vitamin C and retinoids; patch test if sensitive.

14. Youth To The People Superfood Skin Drip Smooth + Glow Barrier Serum with Peptides + Niacinamide

Barrier care meets glow care in this peptide and ceramide charged serum. A derm friendly 5% niacinamide visibly evens tone while hydration and barrier lipids keep skin smooth and bouncy. Best Barrier Boosting Glow

Key ingredients

• Niacinamide (5%): Balances oil and softens post blemish marks.

• Peptides & Ceramides: Smooth and reinforce the barrier.

• Hyaluronic Acid & Postbiotics: Long lasting hydration and skin harmony.

Texture, layering & performance
A lightweight, milky slip that absorbs to a dewy, not sticky, finish, doubling as a glow boosting primer or mix in with foundation. In brand studies, users saw 24 hour hydration and brightness in two weeks, with visible spot fading by week four.

Skin types & how to use: Works for all skin types, especially dull, combo, or post acne prone. Apply 1 to 2 pumps AM/PM before moisturizer. Layers with vitamin C and retinoids; alternate with strong acids and patch test if fragrance sensitive.

15. Lancôme Rénergie H.C.F Triple Serum

An elegant, do it all formula that addresses uneven tone, firmness, and fine lines in one step. Triple chambers keep its HA, vitamin C + niacinamide, and ferulic components fresh until the moment you apply. Best for Brightening & Firming

Key ingredients

• Niacinamide: Evens tone and refines the look of pores.

• Vitamin C & Ferulic Acid: Brightening antioxidant duo for environmental defense.

• Hyaluronic Acid: Plumps with lasting hydration.

• Gluco Peptides: Help firm and condition.

Texture, layering & performance
A lightweight gel cream that absorbs quickly and layers smoothly under moisturizer and SPF without pilling. Non comedogenic and suitable for all skin types. Note: contains fragrance.

Skin types & how to use: Ideal for uneven tone, dark spots, and early signs of aging across oily to dry skin. Use two pumps AM/PM before moisturizer and sunscreen. Patch test if fragrance sensitive.

How to Use Niacinamide Serum (Layering, Pairing, and SPF)

Incorporating a niacinamide serum into your routine is simple. For best results, apply it to clean, slightly damp skin right after cleansing or toning. This allows for better absorption. Use a few drops and gently pat it into your face and neck, then follow up with your favorite moisturizer to lock it in.

Niacinamide is generally safe to use with other skincare actives, including retinoids, peptides, and hyaluronic acid. You can even use it in the same routine as Vitamin C.

Most importantly, always finish your morning routine with sunscreen. For easy reapplication every two hours, keep the Hueguard Invisible Sunscreen Stick on hand. A broad spectrum mineral sunscreen, such as the Live Tinted Hueguard 3 in 1 Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30, not only protects your skin but can also prime it for makeup. If you prefer a little coverage with your SPF, try the Hueguard Skin Tint SPF 50 Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum.

Overuse, Irritation Risks, and Barrier Care

While niacinamide is well tolerated by most, using a concentration that’s too high or introducing it too quickly can sometimes cause mild irritation. Signs of this can include temporary redness, itching, or flushing.

If you experience irritation, don’t panic. Simply reduce the frequency of use to every other day or switch to a niacinamide serum with a lower concentration. It’s also crucial to support your skin barrier with hydrating and soothing ingredients like ceramides, squalane, and hyaluronic acid. A healthy barrier is key to getting the most out of your active ingredients.

What Experts Say About Niacinamide

Dermatologists frequently recommend niacinamide for its impressive range of benefits and gentle nature. It’s praised for its anti inflammatory properties, which can help calm redness and blemishes associated with acne and rosacea. Experts also highlight its ability to boost ceramide production, which is essential for a strong, healthy skin barrier that retains moisture and keeps irritants out. Its effectiveness in regulating sebum and improving the appearance of pores makes it a top recommendation for those with oily or combination skin.

Conclusion

A niacinamide serum is a powerful ally for achieving clear, radiant, and even toned skin. Its ability to address multiple concerns at once, from enlarged pores and excess oil to dark spots and fine lines, makes it a valuable addition to nearly any skincare routine. By choosing the right formula and using it consistently, you can unlock a healthier, more balanced complexion.

Ready to find products that celebrate and care for every skin tone? Explore the full collection at Live Tinted. Building a simple spots and circles routine? Start with the Superhue Dark Spots & Circles Heroes Set.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a niacinamide serum do?

A niacinamide serum is a multi benefit treatment that can help regulate oil production, reduce the appearance of pores, improve skin texture, calm redness, and fade hyperpigmentation or dark spots over time. For dark circles specifically, pair your serum with the Superhue Brightening Eye Cream.

Can I use a niacinamide serum every day?

Yes, for most people, a niacinamide serum is gentle enough for daily use, both in the morning and at night. If you have very sensitive skin, you may want to start by using it every other day.

How long does it take for a niacinamide serum to work?

While some benefits like hydration may be immediate, visible improvements in skin tone, texture, and pores typically take 4 to 12 weeks of consistent use.

Can you use Vitamin C with niacinamide?

Absolutely. Modern formulations of Vitamin C and niacinamide are stable and can be used together in the same routine to provide powerful brightening and antioxidant benefits.

Is 10% niacinamide too strong?

For many people, 10% is an effective concentration for tackling concerns like stubborn discoloration and enlarged pores. However, if you have sensitive skin or are new to the ingredient, starting with a 5% concentration is a great way to see benefits with a lower risk of irritation.

Does niacinamide help with dark spots?

Yes, niacinamide is very effective at reducing hyperpigmentation, including post acne marks and sun spots. It works by inhibiting the transfer of melanin (pigment) to skin cells, resulting in a more even complexion. For targeted treatment, you can find innovative products that deliver a potent dose of niacinamide directly to problem areas. The Live Tinted Superhue Serum Stick is designed for this very purpose.