Niacinamide
What it does
Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, is one of the most versatile and well-studied skincare actives — which is why it turns up in everything from budget moisturizers to high-end serums. It helps support the skin’s barrier, can help regulate oil, and with regular use visibly evens tone and softens the look of pores. It also works as an antioxidant.
What to know
Niacinamide is well tolerated across skin types, including sensitive skin, and is usually used somewhere around 2–5%. It also plays nicely with most other actives — including hyaluronic acid and retinol — which makes it easy to fit into almost any routine.
Commonly found in
Serums, moisturizers, and targeted treatment products.
Frequently asked questions
What does niacinamide do?
It supports the skin barrier, helps manage oil, and over time can even tone and reduce the look of enlarged pores. It also acts as an antioxidant.
Can I use niacinamide with vitamin C or retinol?
Yes. Modern formulas pair it with both routinely, and it is often used to make stronger actives easier for skin to tolerate.
Is niacinamide good for sensitive skin?
It is one of the gentler, better-tolerated actives, which is part of why it is so widely used across skin types.
Evidence
Last updated: August 5, 2026