A true multipurpose hero, niacinamide — also known as vitamin B3 — is lauded for its do-it-all approach. An almost universally well-tolerated ingredient, it’s suitable for a variety of skin types (including mature, sensitive, and acne-prone skin) and works to address a diverse array of skin concerns and conditions, including hyperpigmentation, acne, redness and irritation, and sun damage. Plus, niacinamide also aids in strengthening the skin barrier which, in turn, aids in retaining moisture.
When coupled with other skin barrier-supporting ingredients, a niacinamide serum can be a powerful addition to your daily skincare routine. To help reduce irritation and support and repair the skin barrier, look for niacinamide serums that also contain ceramides and peptides, as well as soothing ingredients like colloidal oatmeal, squalane, and centella asiatica (cica/gotu kola).
Used consistently, these niacinamide products soothe the skin and strengthen the skin barrier while reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation, minimising the appearance of pores, and decreasing the frequency of breakouts.
Regardless of your skin concerns, there’s a niacinamide product for you. With no shortage of niacinamide formulas on the market, we’ve narrowed it down to the best of the best.
1. Best niacinamide for a damaged skin barrier: Allies of Skin Molecular Barrier Recovery Cream Balm
Whether you’ve overdone it on the exfoliation or simply have sensitive or mature skin in need of a little extra care, the Allies of Skin Molecular Barrier Recovery Cream Balm delivers on every front. Niacinamide is joined by ceramides, peptides, oat protein, and squalane which come together in a rich balm formula to soothe inflamed skin and repair the skin barrier.
2. Best niacinamide product for environmental protection: Fresh Tea Elixir Skin Resilience Activating Serum
Factors like stress, lack of sleep, diet, and environmental exposure can contribute to ageing. The Fresh Tea Elixir Skin Resilience Activating Serum harnesses the power of niacinamide, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and Marutian black tea phytocompounds to increase the skin’s natural resilience, hydrate and plump fine lines, and strengthen the skin barrier. As a multitasking formula, it eliminates the need for multiple serums.
3. Best niacinamide for mature skin: Ikkari Youth Restore Serum
Designed to brighten the skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, Ikkari Youth Restore Serum sees niacinamide meet bakuchiol (a gentle plant-based retinol alternative) and hyaluronic acid, as well as antioxidant-rich kakadu plum and blue lotus extracts. With consistent use, it works to improve skin texture, even out skin tone, and plump fine lines.
4. Best budget-friendly niacinamide: The Inkey List Niacinamide Face Serum
An ideal fit for those with acne-prone skin, The Inkey List Niacinamide Face Serum aids in regulating sebum (oil) production while hydrating and soothing the skin to reduce the frequency of breakouts.
5. Best niacinamide with retinol: Youth To The People Retinal + Niacinamide Youth Serum
This formula combines retinal (a powerful retinoid) with niacinamide; the latter working to negate the irritation often associated with the former. The addition of a fatty-acids from ceramides and adaptogenic mushrooms aids in replenishing moisture to the skin and supporting skin barrier health.
6. Best hydrating and moisturising niacinamide: Mecca Cosmetica Replenishing Niacinamide Serum
Niacinamide meets hyaluronic acid and squalane in this serum which hydrates and moisturises in equal measure. Over time, it creates a stronger skin barrier and contributes to a more even skin tone.
7. Best niacinamide for dehydrated skin: Drunk Elephant F-Balm Electrolyte Waterfacial
Akin to a tall glass of water for the complexion, the Drunk Elephant F-Balm Electrolyte Waterfacial is laden with hydrating and replenishing ingredients. Alongside niacinamide, ceramides, antioxidants, vitamin F and a cocktail of plant oils work synergistically to restore suppleness and bounce to the skin.
8. Best niacinamide with SPF: Mecca Cosmetica To Save Face SPF50+ Brightening Sun Serum
SPF should be a non-negotiable part of any daytime skincare routine. Formulated with 3% niacinamide, the Mecca Cosmetica To Save Face SPF50+ Brightening Sun Serum is a supercharged ‘skinscreen’ that works to hydrate and brighten the skin as it protects from the sun.
Words by Arabella Johnson
