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17 Best Niacinamide Serums for Bright, Glowy, Even Skin

Hope you're not too attached to your breakouts, redness, and dark spots.

Headshot of Lauren BalsamoBy Lauren Balsamo
best niacinamide serums
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In my opinion (and the opinion of, like, 99.9 percent of experts I've ever spoken with), niacinamide is one of the true skincare greats—like, in the same category as retinol and vitamin C. Why? Because niacinamide is the ultimate multitasker. The ingredient is proven to do everything from minimize the appearance of pores to fade hyperpigmentation and even regulate oil production. Even better? Niacinamide is generally safe to use on all skin types and tones.

And because the easiest way to get a massive dose of niacinamide is through a serum, so I went ahead and reached out to dermatologist Arash Akhavan, MD, and licensed esthetician Rachael Gallo for their favorite formulas plus the most important things you need to know about adding a niacinamide serum to your skincare routine.

  • 1
    Sanitas Skincare B3 Clarifying Complex

    Best Niacinamide Serum for Acne-Prone Skin

    Sanitas Skincare B3 Clarifying Complex

    $35 at Dermstore
    Read more
  • 2
    Eadem Milk Marvel Dark Spot Serum

    Best Niacinamide Serum for Dark Spots

    Eadem Milk Marvel Dark Spot Serum

    Read more
  • 3
    Colorescience All Calm Multi-Correction Serum

    Best Niacinamide Serum for Sensitive Skin

    Colorescience All Calm Multi-Correction Serum

    Read more
  • 4
    Klur Immersion Serum Concentrate

    Best Daytime Serum with Niacinamide

    Klur Immersion Serum Concentrate

    Read more
  • 5
    Allies of Skin Tranexamic and Arbutin Advanced Brightening Serum

    Best Niacinamide Serum for Stubborn Hyperpigmentation

    Allies of Skin Tranexamic and Arbutin Advanced Brightening Serum

    Read more

Keep reading for the entire list of the 17 best niacinamide serums along with all the need-to-know ingredient info from our experts.

1
Best Niacinamide Serum for Acne-Prone Skin

Sanitas Skincare B3 Clarifying Complex

Sanitas Skincare B3 Clarifying Complex
1
Best Niacinamide Serum for Acne-Prone Skin

Sanitas Skincare B3 Clarifying Complex

$35 at Dermstore
Credit: Courtesy Image
Pros
  • Great choice for anyone that's prone to breakouts
Cons
  • Not suitable for dry skin types

Unlike other harsh acne-treating products with, say, salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, this niacinamide serum with bacteria-regulating prebiotics and zinc won’t dry out your skin or cause redness and flaking. "It's great for acne prone skin," says Gallo. "It contains zinc to gently controls excess oil production, while niacinamide helps reduce discoloration from old breakouts."

THE REVIEW: "I've only been using this for a week, but I can already tell that it will be a staple in my daytime skincare routine. It really helped control oil production and also keeps my skin calm."

2
Best Niacinamide Serum for Dark Spots

Eadem Milk Marvel Dark Spot Serum

Eadem Milk Marvel Dark Spot Serum
2
Best Niacinamide Serum for Dark Spots

Eadem Milk Marvel Dark Spot Serum

Credit: Courtesy Image
Pros
  • Formulated with melanin-rich skin in mind
Cons
  • Some testers say the product can be hard to dispense from the dropper

Seeing sun spots or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and acne scars from old breakouts? This is the niacinamide serum for you. It combines niacinamide with vitamin C to gently fade existing spots and prevent new ones from forming in the future.

THE REVIEW: "I have been using this product for several months now and have repurchased it multiple times. It is a staple in my morning and evening skincare routines because it gently fades hyperpigmentation. Once you start using it, you'll start to see results in a few days."

3
Best Niacinamide Serum for Sensitive Skin

Colorescience All Calm Multi-Correction Serum

Colorescience All Calm Multi-Correction Serum
3
Best Niacinamide Serum for Sensitive Skin

Colorescience All Calm Multi-Correction Serum

Credit: Courtesy Image
Pros
  • Soothing formula is safe for those with sensitive skin and rosacea
Cons
  • On the pricey side for a serum

A few months ago, my sensitive skin had a serious freakout after a bad reaction to a product I was testing, and I swear this calming niacinamide serum made everything better. The formula is full of anti-inflammatory niacinamide and soothing plant extracts to reduce redness and irritation. It's a great option for anyone dealing with rosacea and/or eczema too, BTW.

THE REVIEW: "I have been using this for a little over two weeks now and it’s already made such difference for my sensitive rosacea face," says one tester. "I barely use makeup to cover up my redness anymore."

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4
Best Daytime Serum with Niacinamide

Klur Immersion Serum Concentrate

Klur Immersion Serum Concentrate
4
Best Daytime Serum with Niacinamide

Klur Immersion Serum Concentrate

Credit: Courtesy Image
Pros
  • Contains antioxidants to help defend skin from free radical damage
Cons
  • Some testers say the texture takes some time to get used to

Along with niacinamide, this potent serum contains a cocktail of antioxidants—like vitamin B5, C, E, and green tea extract—making it the perfect first-step in your morning skincare routine. A few drops protect skin from environmental aggressors and free radical damage for a healthy glow.

THE REVIEW: "This serum is a must-have in any skincare routine—it made my skin so hydrated and smooth and helped brighten my skin tone too. I use it every morning and my skin is so happy."

5
Best Niacinamide Serum for Stubborn Hyperpigmentation

Allies of Skin Tranexamic and Arbutin Advanced Brightening Serum

Allies of Skin Tranexamic and Arbutin Advanced Brightening Serum
5
Best Niacinamide Serum for Stubborn Hyperpigmentation

Allies of Skin Tranexamic and Arbutin Advanced Brightening Serum

Credit: Courtesy Image
Pros
  • Helps visibly fade melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Cons
  • May be too powerful for those with sensitive skin

If you’re dealing with stubborn discoloration, like post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or melasma, def give this brightening niacinamide serum from Allies of Skin a try. In addition to niacinamide, it uses a combo of powerful skin brighteners (like tranexamic acid and alpha arbutin) to suppresses excess melanin production to keep skin looking even and bright.

THE REVIEW: "This has been a game-changer for my melasma. I use morning and night in tandem with daily sunscreen and the patches on my cheeks and forehead finally look less noticeable," says one reviewer.

6
Best Niacinamide Serum for Fine Lines

Youth To The People Retinal + Niacinamide Youth Serum

Youth To The People Retinal + Niacinamide Youth Serum
6
Best Niacinamide Serum for Fine Lines

Youth To The People Retinal + Niacinamide Youth Serum

Credit: Courtesy Image
Pros
  • Helps smooth fine lines and improve skin texture
Cons
  • Takes weeks of consistent use to see results

This face serum is ideal for anyone who is starting to see the first signs of aging (aka fine lines and wrinkles). It combines niacinamide and retinol to increase cell turnover and stimulate collagen and elastin production to plump lines and smooth skin texture.

THE REVIEW: "This is one of the few serums with retinol I've tried that doesn't make my face feel like a raisin. My skin doesn't feel dehydrated in the morning—just smooth and glowy."

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7
Best Hydrating Niacinamide Serum

Olay Deep Hydration Serum B3+ Hyaluronic Acid

Olay Deep Hydration Serum B3+ Hyaluronic Acid
7
Best Hydrating Niacinamide Serum

Olay Deep Hydration Serum B3+ Hyaluronic Acid

Credit: Courtesy Image
Pros
  • Contains hyaluronic acid and glycerin to hydrate skin
Cons
  • Not the best option for oily skin types

All skin types can benefit from the hydrating effects of this lightweight niacinamide serum. In addition to niacinamide (vitamin B3), it uses hyaluronic acid and glycerin—two humectants that draw moisture to the skin—to hydrate and plump your face without leaving behind any greasy or tacky residue.

THE REVIEW: "The pluming effect this has on my skin is unreal," says a tester. "It immediately hydrates and softens my skin and it's perfect for under makeup too."

8
Best Barrier-Repairing Niacinamide Serum

Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Stress Rescue Super Serum

Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Stress Rescue Super Serum
8
Best Barrier-Repairing Niacinamide Serum

Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Stress Rescue Super Serum

Credit: Courtesy Image
Pros
  • Helps reduce inflammation and strengthen your skin's barrier
Cons
  • Not the best option for brightening or oil reduction

True to its name, this niacinamide serum is perfect for anyone with inflamed, irritated, or stressed-out skin. In addition to soothing niacinamide, it uses superfoods to strength your skin's protective barrier, says Gallo. The effect? Skin that's more resilient and better equipped to protect itself from external stressors, like pollution, blue light, and debris.

THE REVIEW:
"I have very sensitive, eczema-prone skin and perioral dermatitis," says a reviewer, adding that "within a week of using this the redness around my nose and mouth is essentially disappeared—I am beyond impressed."

9
Best Glow-Boosting Niacinamide Serum

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops
9
Best Glow-Boosting Niacinamide Serum

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops

Credit: Courtesy Image
Pros
  • Gives skin an immediate glow
Cons
  • Contains synthetic fragrance

Part highlighter and part serum, these niacinamide-infused "dew drops" make your skin look glowy as hell. Tap a few pumps onto the high points of your face to instantly hydrate, plump, and reflect light for that glassy skin look. FYI, they'll even help minimize hyperpigmentation with continued use.

THE REVIEW: "I’ve been using this product for a year now and have seen a definite improvement in my skin's brightness and clarity," writes a tester. "It leaves a nice dewy sheen on my skin and does not feel sticky either."

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10
Best All-Natural Niacinamide Serum

Alpyn Beauty Wild Nettle & Niacinamide Firming Serum

Alpyn Beauty Wild Nettle & Niacinamide Firming Serum
10
Best All-Natural Niacinamide Serum

Alpyn Beauty Wild Nettle & Niacinamide Firming Serum

Credit: Courtesy Image
Pros
  • Made with organic and naturally-derived botanicals
Cons
  • Some testers with sensitive skin say it can cause irritation

In addition to niacinamide, this clean beauty serum uses all-natural ingredients, like nourishing wild nettle and anti-aging rambutan, to help firm and plump skin, soften fine lines and wrinkles, and minimize pore size over time.

THE REVIEW: "I love this product and the way it hydrates and plumps my skin to give it a radiant, glowing look," says a tester. "It goes on smoothly with quick absorption with no greasy or oily residue."

11
Best Niacinamide Serum for Oily Skin

The Inkey List Niacinamide

The Inkey List Niacinamide
11
Best Niacinamide Serum for Oily Skin

The Inkey List Niacinamide

Credit: Courtesy Image
Pros
  • One of the more affordable options on the list
Cons
  • Mattifying formula isn't suitable for dry, dehydrated skin

Oily skin types, listen up (and feel free to throw away your blotting papers while you’re at it). This mattifying niacinamide serum regulates your skin’s sebum production so you never look overly greasy or shiny. And regulated oil production can also mean fewer blackheads and breakouts.

THE REVIEW: "This serum does a great job at controlling the oil on my face," says one tester. "It absorbs well and doesn't feel sticky at all—I absolutely love it."

12
Best Niacinamide Booster Serum

Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster

Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster
12
Best Niacinamide Booster Serum

Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster

Credit: Courtesy Image
Pros
  • Can be easily incorporated into your existing skincare routine
Cons
  • Not as potent as other niacinamide serums on the list

You don’t have to radically switch up your skincare routine to reap the benefits of niacinamide. Just mix a few drops of this niacinamide booster serum with your current day cream, night cream, or sunscreen to experience all the glow-boosting benefits of the antioxidant.

THE REVIEW: "One of my favorite products and a definite repurchase. It’s not irritating and gentle enough to be paired with other actives. I like how light it is and that you can easily mix it with other products or use it on its own without making your skin feel greasy," says a tester.

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13
Best Niacinamide Serum for Dull Skin

First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Niacinamide Dark Spot Serum

First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Niacinamide Dark Spot Serum
13
Best Niacinamide Serum for Dull Skin

First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Niacinamide Dark Spot Serum

Credit: Courtesy Image
Pros
  • Fragrance-free formula is safe for sensitive skin
Cons
  • Some testers say the texture is a bit tacky

Perfect for skin that looks dull or blah, this niacinamide face serum makes your face look glowy, refreshed, and well-rested thanks to (duh) niacinamide, plus brightening licorice root extract and antioxidant-rich golden kiwifruit.

THE REVIEW: "You have to be consistent with it, but I've definitely see a huge huge difference in my skin after finishing my second bottle of this serum," says one reviewer. "My jaw used to be completely covered in dark spots and now there’s barley two dark spots left."

14
Best Niacinamide Gel Serum

Sobel Skin Rx 15% Niacinamide Gel Serum

Sobel Skin Rx 15% Niacinamide Gel Serum
14
Best Niacinamide Gel Serum

Sobel Skin Rx 15% Niacinamide Gel Serum

Credit: Courtesy Image
Pros
  • Testers love the fast-absorbing gel texture
Cons
  • High concentration of niacinamide may be sensitizing for some skin types

This 15 percent niacinamide serum has a lightweight gel-like texture that instantly soaks into skin (no greasy or sticky residue) and leaves your face looking firm, smooth, and practically poreless. And because it's so lightweight, it layers nicely with your other skincare and makeup products without pilling.

THE REVIEW: "I have to admit this is a stellar product," says one reviewer. "It's non-sticky, smells great (despite having zero fragrance), and made a visible difference in the size of my pores after one week of use."

15
This Multitasking Niacinamide Serum

Murad Revitalixir Recovery Serum

Murad Revitalixir Recovery Serum
15
This Multitasking Niacinamide Serum

Murad Revitalixir Recovery Serum

Credit: Courtesy Image
Pros
  • Helps smooth lines, brighten skin, and minimize puffiness
Cons
  • Testers say you don't get a ton of product for the price

For when you are hungover, haven’t slept, or just feel stressed and your skin is paying the price, try this multitasking niacinamide serum. It brightens, hydrates, and de-puffs to give your tired skin a healthy glow thanks to niacinamide, CBD extract, peptides, and caffeine.

THE REVIEW: "This has been a lifesaver for my dull skin," writes one reviewer. "The niacinamide gives me a nice, even-toned glow and the hydrating ingredients make my skin look revived and plump too."

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16
Best Brightening Niacinamide Serum

PCA Skin Vitamin B3 Brightening Serum

PCA Skin Vitamin B3 Brightening Serum
16
Best Brightening Niacinamide Serum

PCA Skin Vitamin B3 Brightening Serum

Credit: Courtesy Image
Pros
  • Safe for all skin types and tones
Cons
  • One of the more expensive options on the list

Whether your skin is sensitive, oily, or dry, you can safely use this niacinamide serum to brighten up your face and improve your skin texture. The gentle, lightweight formula uses niacinamide along with hydrating glycerin and smoothing antioxidants for a powerful, effective serum.

THE REVIEW: "This serum is thick and luxurious and feels really nice on the skin. I've been using it along with vitamin and retinol and my melasma is significantly less noticeable. Plus, it never breaks me out and is moisturizing enough to be used on its own for those with oily skin."

17
Best Niacinamide Serum for Scalp

Sunday Riley Clean Rinse Clarifying Scalp Serum

Sunday Riley Clean Rinse Clarifying Scalp Serum
17
Best Niacinamide Serum for Scalp

Sunday Riley Clean Rinse Clarifying Scalp Serum

Credit: Courtesy Image
Pros
  • Helps reduce flaking and itchiness on the scalp
Cons
  • Some testers say the formula has a weird odor

Niacinamide isn't just a gem for your skin, it's great for your scalp too. The ingredient is combined with exfoliating AHAs and BHAs in this clarifying scalp serum to nix flakes, dryness, and product build-up, along with curb excess oil production the more you use it.

THE REVIEW: "I’ve tried a lot of products for my dry, itchy scalp and this is by far the best," writes one reviewer. "In particular, the texture on this product has a great consistency—it’s super easy to massage into your scalp without any mess or dripping."

What does niacinamide do for skin?

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Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that has many benefits and is commonly used in skincare products, says Dr. Akhavan. It normalizes your skin’s oil production to help keep pores clear and breakouts in check, regulates pigment-making cells to fade hyperpigmentation, soothes redness and irritation with its anti-inflammatory properties, protects your skin from free-radical damage during the day, and boosts your skin’s hydration levels to keep your skin barrier healthy and happy. Impressive, right?

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Can I use niacinamide serum every day?

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Niacinamide can be used every day, even twice a day as it is a safe and highly beneficial antioxidant, says Dr. Akhavan, adding that the ingredient is very well tolerated and rarely has negative side effects. "It is safe for all skin types including sensitive skin as well as during pregnancy."

Is niacinamide or vitamin C better?

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Both experts agree that vitamin C is a more effective ingredient for achieving brighter skin and fading discoloration. That said, certain forms of vitamin C can be irritating, so niacinamide is a better choice for those with sensitive skin who want to also tackle hyperpigmentation, says Gallo.

Headshot of Lauren Balsamo
Lauren Balsamo
Deputy Beauty Director

Lauren Balsamo is deputy beauty director at Cosmopolitan, where she writes, edits, and produces all types of beauty content—from product reviews to personal essays and trend reports. She has covered beauty for nine years at Cosmopolitan and has contributed to Women’s Health and Seventeen magazines as well. Follow her on Instagram

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