Ingredient

Niacinamide

A well-tolerated supporting ingredient found in many moisturizers.

Zenzit summary

Best for
Supporting skin while using actives
Watch for
Very little; well tolerated by most
Beginner friendly
easy
Simplicity score
10/10

The simplicity score reflects how easy an ingredient usually is to fit into a small routine — not how effective it is.

Make this make sense for you

What it is

Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 used widely in serums and moisturizers.

Vitamin B3

What it may help with

  • Skin comfort alongside actives
  • Oil-related shine for some people
  • Uneven tone

How it works

It supports skin barrier components and has been studied for a range of skin-comfort effects.

Common strengths

  • 2%–10%; higher is not necessarily better

How often

Once or twice daily.

Who commonly uses it

Almost anyone; frequently used as a companion to stronger actives.

Irritation risk

low

Possible side effects

  • Occasional flushing or tingling at higher strengths

Commonly works well with

  • Salicylic acid
  • Retinoids
  • Benzoyl peroxide
  • Ceramides

Use caution with

No common combination cautions for most people.

Beginner tips

  • A moisturizer containing it is usually enough — a separate serum is optional.

← All ingredients