Niacinamide in Skincare

At a glance

• Best for: oily skin, visible pores, post-acne marks, barrier support, redness
• Skin types: oily, combination, normal, sensitive, dry
• Typical concentration: 2-10% in leave-on products

What it does

Niacinamide, also called nicotinamide or vitamin B3, is a flexible skincare ingredient used for oily skin, visible pores, redness, barrier support, and uneven tone. It is popular because it usually fits into simple routines without the same irritation profile as stronger acids or retinoids. In product formulas, it can appear in serums, gels, creams, sunscreens, and cleansers. Niacinamide is especially useful when skin concerns overlap, such as oiliness plus post-acne marks, or dehydration plus barrier weakness. It is not an instant pore-shrinking ingredient, but it can help skin look more balanced when used consistently with moisturizer and sunscreen.

How it works

Niacinamide supports several skin functions at once. It helps the barrier hold water better, supports the look of calmer skin, and can reduce the appearance of excess shine in oily routines. It is also used in pigmentation routines because it can support a more even-looking tone when paired with sunscreen and other brightening ingredients. Since it is generally well tolerated, it works as a stabilizing active next to salicylic acid, retinoids, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides. Higher percentages are not always better; sensitive skin may prefer moderate strengths.

Pairs well with

• Salicylic Acid
• Hyaluronic Acid
• Ceramides
• Retinol
• Vitamin C

Use caution with

• No major routine conflicts for most users

Related concerns

• oily skin
• acne
• pigmentation

Evidence and sources

• PubMed - Nicotinamide in dermatology - Review of nicotinamide uses in skin care and dermatology.
• DermNet NZ - Nicotinamide - Dermatology reference for nicotinamide.

FAQ

• Is niacinamide good for oily skin? Yes. Niacinamide is commonly used in oily-skin routines because it can help skin look more balanced and less shiny over time.
• Can niacinamide help with pores? It cannot permanently change pore size, but it can reduce the look of enlarged pores by supporting oil balance and smoother texture.
• Can niacinamide be used every day? Most people can use niacinamide daily, but sensitive skin should start slowly and avoid introducing many new actives at once.
• Can niacinamide and salicylic acid be used together? Yes. This pairing is common for oily and acne-prone skin because salicylic acid targets clogged pores while niacinamide supports barrier comfort.
• Is nicotinamide the same as niacinamide? Yes. Nicotinamide and niacinamide are names for the same vitamin B3 ingredient used in skincare.
• Does niacinamide need sunscreen? Yes. Sunscreen is still important, especially when using niacinamide for post-acne marks or uneven tone.