Niacinamide, a powerhouse form of vitamin B3, has taken the skincare world by storm. Its myriad benefits—from brightening skin to reducing breakouts and combating signs of aging—make it a must have ingredient in any skincare routine. Here’s a roundup of the best niacinamide serums for 2024, based on expert recommendations and clinical studies.
What is Niacinamide and Why Should You Use It?
Niacinamide, also known as nicotinamide, is a water soluble vitamin B3 derivative. Renowned for its anti inflammatory properties, it helps control oil production, making it ideal for acne prone skin. It also improves skin tone, boosts collagen production, and enhances the skin barrier by increasing ceramide levels. This versatile ingredient is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
Top Niacinamide Serums of 2024
1. Skin Ceuticals Metacell Renewal B3
Pros: Reduces fine lines and wrinkles, firms skin, lightweight yet moisturizing.
Cons: Pricey.
This serum is celebrated for its antiaging effects, reducing the appearance of fine lines by 5% in four weeks.
2. Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum:
Pros: Soothes skin, helps with oil control, great for sensitive skin.
Cons: Some find the texture sticky.
Combining 2% niacinamide with 60% propolis extract, this serum hydrates and soothes while reducing oiliness and shine. It’s particularly effective for sensitive skin.
3. Olay Super Serum
Pros: Hydrating, good value, includes other brightening ingredients.
Cons: Bottle runs out quickly.
Pioneering the use of niacinamide, Olay’s formula also includes vitamin C and alpha hydroxy acids for a comprehensive brightening effect.
4. Kiehl’s Since 1851 Ultra Pure High Potency 5.0% Niacinamide Serum
Pros: Lightweight, reduces oiliness, hydrates.
Cons: Takes time to see results.
This serum absorbs quickly and suits all skin types, particularly beneficial for oily or combination skin.
5. The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Oil Control Serum
Pros: Affordable, controls oil production, minimizes pores.
Cons: Can be too potent for some users.
A staple for anyone looking to control excess oil and reduce pore size at a budget friendly price.
6. Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops
Pros: Provides instant glow, hydrates, soothes skin.
Cons: Some may find the scent strong.
This serum not only brightens the skin over time but also gives an immediate dewy finish, thanks to its hydrating formula.
7. Paula’s Choice Clinical Niacinamide 20% Treatment
Pros: High concentration of niacinamide, brightens skin, reduces pore size.
Cons: Can be strong for sensitive skin.
This potent treatment refines skin texture and minimizes pores effectively.
8. La Roche Posay Effaclar Serum for Blemish Prone Skin
Pros: Combines niacinamide with salicylic and glycolic acids, decongests pores.
Cons: Can be drying for some.
Ideal for those prone to breakouts, this serum clears pores and prevents future blemishes.
9. Topicals Faded Brightening and Clearing Serum
Pros: Fades dark spots and acne scars, suitable for all skin tones.
Cons: Results take time.
Packed with brightening ingredients, this serum is a go to for hyperpigmentation.
10. Rhode Peptide Glazing Fluid
Pros: Moisturizing, absorbs instantly, works well with other products.
Cons: Issues with the pump.
Combining niacinamide with peptides and hyaluronic acid, this serum nourishes and smooths the skin.
11. Mary Kay Clinical Solutions Ferulic + Niacinamide Brightener
Pros: Reduces discoloration, brightens skin tone, soothing formula.
Cons: Some may not like the scent.
This brightening booster with ferulic acid and niacinamide is perfect for improving uneven skin tone.
12. Eadem Milk Marvel Dark Spot Serum
Pros: Targets dark spots, suitable for melanin rich skin.
Cons: Pricey.
Formulated specifically for melanin rich skin, this serum combines niacinamide with vitamin C to tackle hyperpigmentation.
Incorporating Niacinamide Into Your Routine
Niacinamide can be used morning or night, applied after cleansing and before moisturizing. Start with a lower concentration if you’re new to the ingredient to ensure your skin tolerates it well. Whether you’re targeting acne, dark spots, or signs of aging, there’s a niacinamide serum on this list that’s perfect for your needs.
Niacinamide is a versatile and powerful ingredient that can address various skin concerns. From budget friendly options like The Ordinary to luxurious picks like Skin Ceuticals, there’s a serum for every skin type and budget. Incorporate one of these top niacinamide serums into your skincare routine for clearer, brighter, and more youthful looking skin in 2024.
