Niacinamide, also known as Vitamin B3, is one of the most versatile and gentle ingredients in modern skincare. Loved for its ability to tackle multiple concerns at once - without irritating the skin - it's become a mainstay in Korean skincare routines. Whether you're dealing with dullness, uneven tone, visible pores, or breakouts, niacinamide can be your skin’s quiet hero.
What is Niacinamide?
Niacinamide is a water-soluble form of Vitamin B3 that plays a key role in maintaining skin health. It supports the skin barrier, improves texture, and enhances clarity. As a non-acidic ingredient, it’s well-tolerated by even the most sensitive skin types, making it a safe addition to almost any routine.
What Does Niacinamide Do for the Skin?
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Brightens and evens skin tone
Helps reduce the appearance of dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and overall dullness. -
Regulates oil production
Especially helpful for oily and combination skin, niacinamide helps balance excess sebum. -
Minimises the look of pores
Regular use can reduce the stretched-out look of congested pores. -
Soothes redness and irritation
Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, it’s great for calming sensitive or acne-prone skin. -
Supports the skin barrier
Strengthens the skin’s moisture barrier, helping to retain hydration and resist environmental stressors.
What Skin Types Benefit Most?
All skin types - including sensitive, oily, dry, and acne-prone - can benefit from niacinamide. Its low irritation potential makes it ideal for layering with other actives like hyaluronic acid, centella asiatica, or ceramides.
Can You Use It With Other Ingredients?
Yes. Niacinamide plays well with most skincare ingredients, including:
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Hyaluronic Acid – for added hydration
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Zinc – to support acne-prone skin
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AHA/BHA/PHA – for exfoliation, though it’s best to layer with caution
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Vitamin C – newer studies support their compatibility when formulated correctly
Products at SILVER GLASS That Feature Niacinamide
Explore these top-performing products infused with niacinamide to brighten, balance, and smooth your skin:
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Cell Fusion C – Glass Skin Serum (30ml)
A skin-prepping serum that delivers a luminous, glass-like glow without heaviness. Formulated with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and adenosine, it smooths uneven texture and enhances radiance - ideal before makeup or as your final skincare step. -
Haruharu Wonder – Centella 5% Niacinamide Radiance Gel Cream (90g)
A vegan, fragrance-free gel cream packed with 5% niacinamide, ascorbic acid, and centella asiatica. This multitasking moisturiser improves uneven tone, supports the skin barrier, and hydrates without clogging pores - perfect for all skin types, including sensitive skin. -
MARY & MAY – Niacinamide Vitamin C Brightening Mask (30ea / 400g)
These daily-use sheet masks offer brightening care with niacinamide, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid. Gentle yet effective, they help reduce dark spots, balance oil, and deeply hydrate while supporting sustainable skincare with eco-friendly packaging.
How to Use Niacinamide in Your Routine
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When: Use it after cleansing and toning, before your moisturiser or face oil.
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How often: Once or twice daily
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Tip: Start with lower concentrations (2–5%) if you're new to active ingredients, then build up.
Key Takeaway
Niacinamide is a gentle yet powerful multitasker that supports brighter, calmer, and more even skin. Ideal for nearly every skin type and concern, it’s an ingredient worth keeping in rotation - whether you're building a new routine or fine-tuning an existing one.
