Niacinamide is one of the most popular ingredients in Korean skincare. It is found in serums, creams, moisturizers, and formulas designed to improve the appearance of skin tone and texture. Its popularity comes from how easily it fits into different routines and how suitable it can be for many skin types.
Before choosing a niacinamide serum, however, it is important to understand what this ingredient is, how different concentrations vary, how to include it in a morning or evening routine, and what to consider if your skin is sensitive.
This guide explains niacinamide in detail, including its cosmetic benefits, use for different skin types, combinations with other active ingredients, common mistakes, and how to build a routine suited to Israel's climate.
What is niacinamide?
Niacinamide, also known as nicotinamide, is a form of vitamin B3. In cosmetics, it is used as an active ingredient to support the skin barrier, help retain moisture, and gradually improve the appearance of skin tone and texture.
It is important to distinguish niacinamide from niacin. Both are related to vitamin B3, but they are different forms. Niacinamide is commonly used in cosmetics because it works well in serum and cream formulas intended for topical use.
Niacinamide is water-soluble. This is why it is often found in lightweight water-based serums applied after cleansing and before moisturizer. It may also be included in creams, emulsions, and eye-area products.
What are the benefits of niacinamide for the skin?
Niacinamide is considered a versatile ingredient because it can be included in routines with different goals. Results depend on the concentration, the complete formula, the other products in your routine, and your skin's individual response.
Skin barrier support
A balanced skin barrier helps retain moisture and protect the skin from environmental factors. Niacinamide is often combined with ceramides, panthenol, and moisturizing ingredients.
More even-looking skin tone
Regular use of a suitable product may gradually improve the appearance of uneven tone and post-blemish marks.
Oil balance
Niacinamide is often used in routines for oily and combination skin, especially in lightweight formulas that do not feel heavy.
Improving the look of skin texture
It may help the skin look smoother and more even, but it does not change the anatomical size of pores.
A useful addition to a moisturizing routine
If a serum contains glycerin, panthenol, beta-glucan, or hyaluronic acid, it can fit well into a daily moisturizing routine.
Suitable for a simple routine
Niacinamide can be used between cleansing and moisturizer without the need to build a long or complicated routine.
Which skin types is niacinamide suitable for?
Niacinamide can suit many skin types, but no single product works equally well for everyone. It is important to consider the concentration, the other ingredients in the formula, and your skin's response.
Niacinamide for oily skin
For oily skin, a lightweight water-based serum may be a good choice. It is still important to use a suitable moisturizer and avoid trying to dry out the skin with harsh cleansing.
Niacinamide for combination skin
For combination skin, the serum can be applied to the entire face, while the amount of moisturizer can be adjusted for different areas.
Niacinamide for dry skin
For dry skin, it is preferable to choose a formula that also contains glycerin, panthenol, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or other moisturizing ingredients.
Niacinamide for sensitive skin
For sensitive skin, it is best to start gradually, perform a patch test, and avoid introducing several new active products at the same time.
Niacinamide for mature skin
It can be combined with peptides, adenosine, squalane, ceramides, and sunscreen as part of a mature-skin routine.
Uneven-looking skin tone
Niacinamide can be included in a routine to improve the appearance of skin tone, while daily sun protection remains an important part of that routine.
Which niacinamide concentration should you choose?
Cosmetic products contain niacinamide in different concentrations. A higher concentration does not guarantee a better or faster result. It is important to evaluate the entire formula and how well it matches your skin's needs.
| Concentration | Who may it suit? | What to consider |
|---|---|---|
| Low concentration | Beginners, sensitive skin, or daily use | Can be a convenient option for introducing niacinamide gradually. |
| Around 5% | Different skin types and a variety of cosmetic goals | A commonly used concentration in research and cosmetic products. |
| 10% | People already familiar with active ingredients who are looking for a more targeted serum | It is preferable to start gradually and monitor your skin's response. |
If your skin is sensitive or you are using a 10% serum for the first time, you can begin once a day or a few times per week. Once your skin has adapted, frequency can be increased according to the product instructions.
How should you use a niacinamide serum?
Cleanse the skin
Use a gentle cleanser and carefully pat the skin dry with a towel without rubbing.
Apply the serum
Usually, 2-3 drops are enough for clean, dry skin on the face and neck.
Let the product absorb
Gently spread the serum until absorbed. There is no need to wait a long time before applying moisturizer.
Apply moisturizer
Finish with a moisturizer suitable for your skin type and the season.
In the morning, sunscreen should be applied after moisturizer. In the evening, you can finish with a night cream or a nourishing moisturizer.
Niacinamide in the morning or evening?
Niacinamide can be used in the morning, evening, or both routines, depending on the product instructions and your skin's individual response.
| Morning routine | Evening routine |
|---|---|
| Gentle cleansing | Remove makeup and sunscreen |
| Serum with niacinamide | Cleanse the face |
| Moisturizer | Serum with niacinamide |
| Sunscreen | Eye cream and moisturizer or night cream |
If your routine includes other active ingredients, you can use niacinamide in only one of your daily routines. This helps keep skincare simple and reduces unnecessary stress on the skin.
Niacinamide pairs well with moisturizing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and squalane. Read more in our skin hydration guide.
Which ingredients can niacinamide be combined with?
Niacinamide is a fairly versatile ingredient, but compatibility depends on the specific formulas and the condition of your skin. You do not need to use all of the active ingredients listed below in the same routine.
| Ingredient | Can they be combined? | How to use them together |
|---|---|---|
| Hyaluronic acid | Yes | A common combination for supporting hydration. The ingredients may be in the same product or applied in layers. |
| Panthenol | Yes | Especially suitable for routines focused on hydration and skin comfort. |
| Ceramides | Yes | You can apply the serum first, followed by a cream with ceramides. |
| Peptides | Yes | A convenient combination for mature skin and routines aimed at a smoother-looking texture. |
| Vitamin C | In most cases, yes | They can be combined according to the product instructions. For sensitive skin, they can be used in separate routines. |
| Retinoids | Sometimes, yes | Niacinamide can fit into such a routine, but each new product is best introduced gradually. |
| AHA or BHA | Yes, with caution | For sensitive skin, it is better to use them on different days or in separate routines. |
| Sunscreen | Yes | Apply the serum before moisturizer and sunscreen. |
For a more detailed compatibility guide, see "What Can You Combine with Niacinamide?".
How should you use niacinamide on sensitive skin?
Niacinamide can also suit sensitive skin, but tolerance depends on the complete formula and concentration. Sometimes a reaction is related to another ingredient, fragrance, too many products, or overly frequent use.
How to start gradually
- Perform a patch test on a small area before applying the product to the entire face.
- Start with once-daily use or a few times per week.
- Use a small amount according to the instructions.
- Do not introduce several new active products on the same day.
- Add a moisturizer suitable for sensitive skin.
- Stop using the product if you experience a strong or persistent reaction.
How should you adapt a niacinamide serum to Israel's climate?
During summer in Israel, many people prefer water-based serums and fast-absorbing textures. A lightweight serum can pair well with moisturizer and sunscreen without feeling heavy.
In winter or during prolonged time in air-conditioned environments, serum alone may not be enough. In these cases, apply a cream over it with moisturizing ingredients and lipids that support the skin barrier.
| Conditions | Recommended adjustment |
|---|---|
| Hot and humid summer | Lightweight serum, lightweight moisturizer, and sunscreen. |
| Prolonged time in air-conditioned environments | Niacinamide serum with moisturizing ingredients plus a suitable cream. |
| Dry winter weather | Serum followed by a richer cream. |
| Sun exposure | Daily sunscreen use and reapplication according to the product instructions. |
HL/Skin 10% Niacinamide Serum
HL/Skin 10% Niacinamide Serum is a water-based product designed for use after cleansing and before moisturizer. The formula combines 10% niacinamide with moisturizing and soothing ingredients.
Key formula ingredients
| Ingredient | Role in the formula |
|---|---|
| Niacinamide 10% | Supports the skin barrier and helps improve the appearance of skin tone and texture. |
| Panthenol | Provitamin B5, which helps support hydration and a feeling of comfort. |
| Glycerin | A moisturizing ingredient that helps retain water in the outer layer of the skin. |
| Beta-glucan | Used in formulas designed to support hydration and skin comfort. |
| Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid | Helps support hydration and a fresher, plumper-looking appearance. |
| Vitamin E | An antioxidant that helps protect the formula and the skin from environmental factors. |
| Laminaria Japonica extract | A mineral-rich botanical extract included in the formula to support skin comfort. |
| Ecklonia Prostrata extract | A botanical extract used in Korean cosmetic formulas. |
According to the product instructions, apply 2-3 drops to clean, dry skin on the face and neck, gently spread until absorbed, and follow with moisturizer. During the day, it is recommended to finish with sunscreen.
Recommended skincare routine with niacinamide
A complete routine can be built in four steps. You do not have to use every product in the line, but combining products with complementary functions can make the routine clear and convenient.
1
Cleansing
Gentle cleansing removes impurities, makeup residue, and excess sebum, preparing the skin for serum.
Learn more
2
3
Eye area
Eye cream is an optional step for those who want dedicated hydration for this delicate area.
Learn more
4
Moisturizer
The cream helps retain moisture and completes the active part of the routine.
Learn moreCommon mistakes when using niacinamide
- Using too much serum.
- Starting with twice-daily use before the skin has adapted to the product.
- Introducing several acids and new active ingredients at the same time.
- Skipping moisturizer simply because the skin is oily.
- Expecting a dramatic result after only a few days.
- Continuing to use an irritating product only because it is popular.
- Ignoring sunscreen when the goal is to improve the appearance of uneven skin tone.
- Changing products too often without giving the skin time to adapt.
Consistency matters more than the number of products. A short routine that suits your skin and is used regularly is usually more practical than constantly adding new active ingredients.
Read more about common mistakes in the article "How to Use a Niacinamide Serum: 5 Mistakes to Avoid".
Frequently asked questions about niacinamide
Click a question to open the answer
What is niacinamide?
Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 used in cosmetic products such as serums and creams. It is often included in formulas designed to support the skin barrier and improve the appearance of skin tone and texture.
Is niacinamide suitable for all skin types?
It can suit many skin types, but results and tolerance depend on the concentration, the complete formula, and your skin's individual response.
Can niacinamide be used every day?
Many niacinamide products are designed for daily use. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and introduce a new product gradually, especially at higher concentrations.
Niacinamide in the morning or evening?
It can be used in the morning, evening, or both routines. During the day, finish your routine with sunscreen.
How many drops of niacinamide serum should you apply?
For HL/Skin 10% Niacinamide Serum, the recommended amount is 2-3 drops applied to clean, dry skin on the face and neck.
Do you need to apply moisturizer after niacinamide?
In most cases, yes. Moisturizer helps complete the routine and maintain a comfortable skin feel, especially for dry skin or during long periods in air-conditioned environments.
Is niacinamide suitable for oily skin?
Yes. It is often used in routines for oily and combination skin. Choose a lightweight serum and continue using a suitable moisturizer.
Is niacinamide suitable for dry skin?
Yes, especially if the formula combines niacinamide with glycerin, panthenol, beta-glucan, or hyaluronic acid.
Is niacinamide suitable for sensitive skin?
It may be suitable, but it is best to perform a patch test, start with less frequent use, and stop if a significant reaction occurs.
Can niacinamide be combined with hyaluronic acid?
Yes. This is a common combination in routines focused on hydration and skin barrier support.
Can niacinamide be combined with vitamin C?
In many cases, yes. If your skin is sensitive or both products are new to you, you can use vitamin C in the morning and niacinamide in the evening.
Can niacinamide be combined with retinol?
Sometimes, yes, but each product is best introduced gradually. If your skin is sensitive, you can use them on different days or discuss your routine with a professional.
When can you see changes in the appearance of the skin?
The feeling of hydration may improve sooner, while visible changes in tone or texture usually require consistent use for several weeks. Results vary from person to person.
Is a 10% concentration suitable for beginners?
It may be suitable, but it is best to start gradually. For very sensitive skin, begin with less frequent use.
What should you do if the serum causes burning?
Rinse the product off and stop using it. If you experience swelling, a rash, pain, or a persistent reaction, consult a dermatologist.
Does niacinamide remove pores?
Pores cannot be completely removed or permanently changed in anatomical size. A suitable routine can improve the appearance of texture and make pores look less noticeable.
Is niacinamide an acne treatment?
Niacinamide is a cosmetic ingredient. Significant, painful, or persistent acne requires diagnosis and treatment by a dermatologist.
Would you like to add niacinamide to your routine?
Start with gentle cleansing, apply 2-3 drops of serum to clean skin, and finish with moisturizer. During the day, use sunscreen.
Introduce each new product gradually and monitor your skin's response. A simple, consistent routine can be more practical than using many products at the same time.
Professional sources for further reading
- Scientific review of the mechanisms and cosmetic uses of niacinamide
- Review of the biological and cosmetic functions of niacinamide
- Safety assessment of niacinamide and niacin in cosmetics
The information on this page is intended for general educational and skincare purposes and does not constitute medical advice.