Skincare — Ingredients
Niacinamide serum: what it does and how to use it.
Niacinamide serum (vitamin B3) calms redness, controls oil, refines the look of pores and fades marks. It suits almost every skin type and works morning and night.
6 minute read
Written and reviewed by Beauty World Editorial · Last reviewed October 2026
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What can you actually mix with niacinamide?
Niacinamide pairs well with salicylic acid for pores, hyaluronic acid for hydration and retinol for calmer anti-ageing.
Find more cheat sheets on our PinterestBasics
What does niacinamide serum do?
Controls oil
Helps balance sebum, so oily and combination skin looks less shiny.
Refines pores
Less oil and better barrier function make pores look smaller.
Fades marks
Reduces the transfer of pigment, helping post-spot marks and uneven tone.
Strengthens the barrier
Boosts ceramides, so skin loses less water and gets less irritated.
How to
How to use niacinamide serum
1. After cleansing
Apply 2–3 drops to dry skin, morning, evening or both.
2. Before moisturiser
Follow with moisturiser, then SPF 30+ in the morning.
3. Start at 5%
5% is effective for most people; 10% can tingle on sensitive skin.
4. Give it time
Expect oil and redness changes in 2–4 weeks, marks in 8–12 weeks.
Who it suits
Niacinamide serum for your skin type
Oily and acne-prone
Look for 5–10% with zinc for extra oil control.
Dry
Choose a formula with hyaluronic acid or glycerin.
Sensitive and rosacea-prone
Use 2–5% and patch test first.
UK pharmacy shelves
Boots and Superdrug stock niacinamide serums at every budget — check the percentage on the label rather than the price.
