If you could keep only one "active" ingredient in your bathroom, a lot of skincare experts would quietly pick niacinamide. It is not the flashiest name on the shelf, but it gets along with almost everything, suits almost every skin type and has real research behind it.
So what does niacinamide actually do, how much do you need, and how do you fit it into a routine without overthinking it? Here is everything you need to know, minus the jargon.
Niacinamide (vitamin B3) helps skin look more even-toned, smoother and more balanced, and supports a comfortable, hydrated feel. Research has used concentrations of around 4–5%. It can be used morning and night, and it pairs well with vitamin C, peptides, hyaluronic acid and SPF.
- Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3. It is one of the most beginner-friendly skincare ingredients.
- A 12-week study using 5% niacinamide reported improvements in the look of fine lines, dark spots, red blotchiness and sallowness.
- Around 4–5% is the sweet spot. Higher isn’t automatically better.
- It works with vitamin C, peptides, retinol alternatives and SPF.
- A niacinamide moisturiser is the easiest way to use it: no extra step needed.
What is niacinamide?
Niacinamide (also called nicotinamide) is a water-soluble form of vitamin B3. In skincare, it is valued because it is stable, gentle and versatile. It doesn't need special packaging and doesn't need to be used at a specific time of day. It also rarely clashes with other ingredients.
Consultant dermatologist Dr Adil Sheraz, writing for the British Skin Foundation, describes "a reasonable amount of research-based evidence" that niacinamide reduces the look of pigmentation and has a degree of anti-inflammatory effect on the skin.
What does niacinamide do for skin? 6 benefits, explained
One of the best-known studies, a 12-week, double-blind trial using 5% niacinamide, asked 50 women to apply niacinamide to one side of the face and a placebo to the other. The niacinamide side showed reductions in the look of fine lines and wrinkles, dark spots, red blotchiness and sallowness, plus improved elasticity. Here is what that means for your routine:
| Benefit | What it means for you | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| 1. More even-looking tone | Helps soften the look of dark spots and post-summer patches | Uneven tone, post-sun marks |
| 2. Less sallow, dull skin | A fresher, less yellow-looking complexion | Tired-looking skin |
| 3. Calmer-looking skin | Helps reduce the look of red blotchiness | Skin that looks flushed or blotchy |
| 4. Smoother-looking texture | Fine lines and texture look softer over time | Early signs of ageing |
| 5. Balanced, comfortable feel | Supports a hydrated skin barrier feel | Combination and oily skin, and dry patches |
| 6. Easy compatibility | Layers with most actives without fuss | Anyone building a routine |
Autumn is a smart time to start. The British Skin Foundation’s guide to post-summer pigmentation lists niacinamide among the serum ingredients dermatologists use for uneven patches left behind by summer sun.
Does niacinamide help with pores?
Niacinamide can't physically shrink pores; their size is largely genetic. What many people notice is that skin looks more balanced and less shiny with regular use, which makes pores appear less noticeable. Pair it with gentle, consistent cleansing for the best effect.
Balance Veil Niacinamide Moisturiser Gel
A lightweight daily gel moisturiser with 5% niacinamide, glycerin and organic ginkgo leaf extract. It hydrates without a heavy cream feel, ready for SPF or makeup. Vegan and suitable for all skin types.
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Shop Balance VeilWhat percentage of niacinamide is best?
According to the British Skin Foundation, the minimum effective concentration is around 4%, although some studies show benefits at 2%. The well-known clinical study above used 5%. Very high percentages (10% and above) are widely sold, but more isn't automatically better, and higher strengths are more likely to feel tingly on sensitive skin.
| Strength | Who it suits | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2–4% | Very sensitive skin, beginners | Gentle entry point |
| 5% | Most skin types | The strength used in key clinical research. A daily sweet spot. |
| 10%+ | Experienced users | Not proven to be better. Some people find it irritating. |
What can you mix with niacinamide?
This is niacinamide's superpower. It plays well with nearly everything:
| Pair niacinamide with… | Verdict | How to layer |
|---|---|---|
| Vitamin C | ✅ Great pairing | Morning: vitamin C serum → niacinamide moisturiser → SPF |
| Peptides | ✅ Great pairing | Peptide serum → niacinamide moisturiser |
| Retinol or a retinol alternative | ✅ Great pairing | Evening: renewal serum → niacinamide moisturiser to help skin feel comfortable |
| Hyaluronic acid | ✅ Great pairing | Both support a hydrated feel |
| SPF | ✅ Essential partner | The BSF suggests sensitive skin can look for sunscreens with niacinamide and ceramides |
| Strong exfoliating acids | ⚠️ Go slowly | Use on different evenings if your skin is easily irritated |
Can you use niacinamide and vitamin C together?
Yes. The myth that they cancel each other out comes from old lab research using pure, unstable vitamin C at high temperatures. That is very different from applying two modern formulas to your face at room temperature. Using them together is now common, dermatologist-approved practice. Read our full guide on how to use vitamin C serum for the exact layering order.
Can you use niacinamide with retinol?
Yes, and many people find it makes renewal-focused routines feel more comfortable. In our evening routine, a niacinamide gel goes on after Renew Veil Retinol Alternative Serum or Smooth Veil Peptide Serum.
Build your routine from the Face Care collection: any 2 items save 10% and 3 or more save 15%, applied automatically in your bag. UK standard delivery is free on every order.
How to use niacinamide: morning and night
Because niacinamide is stable and gentle, you can use it twice a day. The easiest way is as your moisturiser, so it doesn't add an extra step.
| Morning routine | Evening routine | |
|---|---|---|
| Step 1 | Cleanse | Cleanse (remove SPF and makeup thoroughly) |
| Step 2 | Vitamin C Serum | Retinol Alternative or Peptide Serum |
| Step 3 | Niacinamide Moisturiser Gel | Niacinamide Moisturiser Gel |
| Step 4 | Mineral SPF30 | Done: moisturiser is the last step |
A pea-to-almond-sized amount covers the face and neck. Smooth it on gently rather than rubbing, and wait a minute before applying SPF or makeup.
Want the full picture? Our morning skincare routine order and night skincare routine guides walk through every step.
Is niacinamide good for your skin type?
Not sure of your skin type? The British Skin Foundation’s skin type guide is a helpful starting point. Here is how niacinamide fits each one:
| Skin type | Why niacinamide helps | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Oily or combination | Skin can look more balanced and less shiny | Choose a lightweight gel texture |
| Dry | Supports a comfortable, hydrated feel | Layer over a hydrating serum if needed |
| Sensitive-feeling | Generally well tolerated at around 5% | Patch test and start once a day |
| Mature | Helps with the look of texture and uneven tone | Pair with a peptide serum |
| Uneven tone or post-sun marks | Helps reduce the look of dark spots over time | Never skip daily SPF |
Balance Veil contains alcohol and parfum (a floral fragrance), so it is not an alcohol-free or fragrance-free moisturiser. If your skin reacts easily to fragrance, patch test for 24–48 hours before first use.
Beauty tools for clearer-looking pores
Niacinamide works best on clean skin. These tools can support a thorough but gentle cleanse, especially if blackheads and congestion are your main concern:
Six intensity levels for a deeper but gentle cleanse before your moisturiser.
A soft, travel-size option for daily cleansing, with no charging needed.
Adjustable suction for occasional use on the nose and chin. Always start on the lowest level.
A refreshing mist that helps skin feel hydrated through the central-heating months.
Use suction and extraction tools no more than once a week, never on broken, inflamed or sensitive skin, and follow the instructions carefully. If you have acne or a skin condition, speak to a pharmacist or GP first.
Not sure which product fits your goal? Our BeautyEssence product guide matches each skin goal to the product we recommend, with live prices.
Frequently asked questions
What does niacinamide do for your face?
Niacinamide helps skin look more even-toned, smoother and more balanced, and less dull or blotchy. It also supports a comfortable, hydrated feel. Research using 5% niacinamide over 12 weeks reported improvements in the look of fine lines, dark spots and red blotchiness.
Can I use niacinamide every day?
Yes. Niacinamide is gentle enough for daily use, morning and night, for most skin types. Start once a day if your skin is easily irritated.
Can you use niacinamide with vitamin C?
Yes. Apply vitamin C serum first, then a niacinamide moisturiser, then SPF in the morning. The idea that they cancel each other out is an outdated myth.
Should niacinamide be used in the morning or at night?
Either, or both. It is stable in daylight and works under SPF, so a niacinamide moisturiser fits easily into both routines.
Does niacinamide shrink pores?
It can’t change your pore size, but many people find their skin looks more balanced and less shiny, which makes pores look less noticeable.
How long does niacinamide take to work?
Skin may feel more comfortable within days. Visible changes to tone and texture typically take 8–12 weeks of consistent use.
Make niacinamide your everyday step
Balance Veil is the moisturising step in both our Morning Glow and Smooth Night routines. Pair it with a serum and save 10%, or build the full routine and save 15%.
Shop Balance VeilJust getting started? Read how to start a skincare routine or browse the full Face Care collection.
Sources and further reading
- British Skin Foundation: Cosmeceuticals, do they work? (Dr Adil Sheraz)
- British Skin Foundation: Post-summer pigmentation, what causes it and what can you do
- British Skin Foundation: How to protect your skin from the sun (Dr Mary Sommerlad)
- British Skin Foundation: Identifying your skin type (Dr Jonathan Kentley)
- Bissett DL et al. Niacinamide: a B vitamin that improves aging facial skin appearance. Dermatologic Surgery, 2005 (PubMed)
This guide is for general skincare information and is not medical advice. Patch test new products, follow the directions on each product page and speak to your GP, pharmacist or a dermatologist about any skin condition, persistent irritation or changes to moles.
