Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 and one of the most widely used ingredients in modern skincare. You'll find it in our Sea Buckthorn Radiance Serum and our Sea Buckthorn Sunscreen SPF 50 PA+++.
In short
- Niacinamide is a gentle, well-studied form of vitamin B3
- It helps support the skin barrier and visibly even tone and texture
- It suits most skin types and fits into morning or evening routines
- More isn't always better: use it consistently and patch test first
What niacinamide does for skin
- Supports the skin barrier, so skin holds on to moisture and feels more comfortable
- Helps visibly even skin tone and the look of dark spots
- Helps refine the look of texture and pores
- Balances the look of shine on skin that tends to get oily through the day
None of this happens overnight. Like most skincare ingredients, niacinamide works gradually, so give it several weeks of regular use before judging the results.
Who can use it
Niacinamide is generally well tolerated and suits most skin types, from oily to dry. It's a good option if you want an ingredient that does a lot without being harsh. As with any new ingredient, patch test on a small area first and introduce it on its own before adding anything else.
How to use niacinamide
Use it after cleansing, on clean skin. In the evening, press a few drops of a niacinamide serum into damp skin. In the morning, a sunscreen that includes niacinamide gives you the ingredient while you protect your skin. That's exactly how our range is set up.
- Cleanse with a gentle face wash.
- Apply a few drops of serum to slightly damp skin.
- Press it in with your palms, rather than rubbing.
- Finish with sunscreen in the morning, or a moisturiser at night if you use one.
What to pair it with
| Pair with | Why it works |
|---|---|
| Sunscreen | Daily protection helps keep tone even, and niacinamide supports the skin barrier at the same time. |
| Hyaluronic acid | Adds water-binding hydration, so skin feels plump and comfortable. |
| Ceramides | Support the barrier from a different angle, a pairing you'll find in our sunscreen. |
| Vitamin C | Commonly used together. If your skin tingles, use them at different times of day. |
Why we pair it with sea buckthorn
Sea buckthorn brings omega fatty acids, vitamin C and carotenoids, while niacinamide works on tone and barrier support. Together with mulberry extract in the serum, they are made to help even tone and fade the look of dark spots. Learn more in why sea buckthorn is a skincare powerhouse.
Sea Buckthorn Radiance Serum
A lightweight night serum with sea buckthorn, niacinamide and mulberry extract that helps brighten tone and replenish moisture while you sleep.
Common niacinamide myths
- "A higher percentage is always better." Not so. Results depend on the whole formula, and too much can cause irritation. A well-balanced product used consistently does more than a very strong one used occasionally.
- "It causes breakouts." It's generally well tolerated. If a product breaks you out, the cause may be another ingredient in the formula, which is another reason to introduce one product at a time.
- "You can't use it with other actives." Niacinamide plays well with many ingredients. If your skin feels sensitive, simply use your actives at different times of day.
Common questions
Can I use niacinamide every day?
Most people can. If you're new to it, start every other day and build up. Stop and speak to a dermatologist if you notice irritation.
Can I use it morning and night?
Yes. Many people use it in the morning through their sunscreen and again in the evening through a serum.
How long until I see a difference?
Give it at least four to six weeks of consistent use. Skin renews itself gradually, so visible changes take time.
Where does it go in my routine?
After cleansing and before moisturiser or sunscreen. Our simple routine shows the full order.
Photography from Unsplash.
