The Anti-Aging and Acne-Fighting Ingredient That's Missing from Your Skincare Routine

Niacinamide isn't the easiest word to pronounce, but that hasn't kept it off of dermatologists' and skincare enthusiasts' lips. Also known as vitamin B3, niacinamide has become extremely popular in recent years because it's safe for all skin types, offers a handful of benefits, and plays nice with a number of other popular ingredients, including retinol.

Ahead get all the details on one of the most popular skincare ingredients of the moment, along with recommendations on which serums to incorporate into your routine.

What Are the Skincare Benefits of Niacinamide?

"Niacinamide has been shown in several studies to help reduce some signs of skin aging, particularly skin tone and texture," says Dr. Hadley King, a board-certified cosmetic and medical dermatologist in New York City. "Some studies have found that it may help reduce the appearance of age spots and other forms of skin discoloration."

Plus, Dr. King says niacinamide is a potent antioxidant that can minimize hyperpigmentation and redness. The ingredient also boosts the production of ceramides, which helps strengthen the skin barrier and prevent loss of moisture.

Given all of its benefits, it's easy to understand why niacinamide keeps popping up in products. Another reason? It can counteract irritation caused by active ingredients for common skin issues like acne, such as salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide.

"Many acne-fighting ingredients like retinoids, salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide, can be drying and irritating, so it can be helpful to combine ingredients like this with ingredients like niacinamide that support the skin barrier and improve moisture levels and tone and texture," Dr. King explains.

How to Use Niacinamide on Your Skin

While skincare brands have been adding vitamin B3 to moisturizers, oils, and masks, it's most commonly found in skincare serums — which can be used daily. And while the ingredient doesn't tend to cause irritation or inflammation, it's still a good idea to look for a formulation that contains 5% niacinamide or less to start.

"Niacinamide is actually typically tested and shown to provide benefits at concentrations between 2% to 5%," says Gloria Lu, a cosmetic chemist and co-founder of Chemist Confessions. "Nowadays, products are getting pretty crazy with the niacinamide percentages and now 10% is the new normal starting point. Niacinamide shouldn't cause the 'purge' effect that you typically hear about with retinoids, and instead, we would say that's more a sign of irritation."

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With that in mind, we've rounded up the best niacinamide serums to add to your routine, whether you're looking to fade hyperpigmentation or minimize dehydration.

The Best Niacinamide Serums