The exokiss journal · skincare · 2 min read
How to use niacinamide serum: the right order, the right percentage, and what not to mix
By the exokiss team ·
In short
- Apply niacinamide serum after cleansing and before moisturizer, morning, night, or both.
- Most of the research uses 2–5%. Very high percentages (10%+) aren't automatically better and can irritate some skin.
- It plays well with almost everything: vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, retinol, peptides, ceramides.
- Give it 8–12 weeks of daily use.
Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is the easy-going friend of skincare: it suits most skin types, layers with nearly anything, and works morning or night. That's why a niacinamide serum is such a common first step. Here's how to use it well.
What niacinamide does
Niacinamide supports the skin barrier and is linked to a more even-looking tone, refined-looking pores and less visible redness. In a well-known 12-week study, a 5% niacinamide moisturizer improved the look of fine lines, blotchiness and texture compared with a plain moisturizer.
How to use niacinamide serum
- Cleanse and, if you use one, apply toner.
- Apply a few drops of niacinamide serum to face and neck.
- Layer a hydrating serum if your skin likes extra moisture.
- Moisturize, plus sunscreen in the morning.
The rule of thumb is thinnest to thickest: watery serums first, creams last.
Is a higher percentage better?
Not necessarily. Many products shout 10% or even 20%, but most studies used 2 to 5%, and some people find very high levels cause redness or a tingle. A comfortable formula you use every day will do more than a strong one you abandon.
Our Niacinamide Serum is deliberately gentle: 1% niacinamide with apple extract, hyaluronic acid and centella asiatica, in a creamy, fragrance-free formula with no essential oils, at pH 5.0 to 5.3. It's made for fresher, more even-looking skin with a dewy finish, and suits all skin types.
What can you mix niacinamide with?
| Ingredient | With niacinamide? | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Vitamin C | Yes | The "never mix" myth comes from old lab tests with heat. Modern formulas are fine together. |
| Hyaluronic acid | Yes | A great pairing for plump, hydrated-looking skin. |
| Retinol | Yes | Niacinamide can make a retinol routine feel more comfortable. |
| Ceramides | Yes | Seal it in with a ceramide cream at night. |
| Strong acid peels | Space them out | Use acids on a different night if skin is sensitive. |
A simple niacinamide routine
Our Renewal routine is built around it: Niacinamide Serum, then Hydrating Serum (a silky fluid with 75% aloe juice), then Ceramide Night Cream at night.
Pairing with vitamin C? See how to use vitamin C serum.
Frequently asked questions
Should I use niacinamide in the morning or at night?
Both work. Niacinamide is stable and doesn't make skin sun-sensitive, so you can use it once or twice a day.
Which is better, niacinamide or vitamin C?
They do different jobs and work well together: vitamin C in the morning for a brighter look and antioxidant support, niacinamide morning or night for barrier support and an even-looking tone.
What should you not mix niacinamide with?
Very little. If your skin is sensitive, avoid using it in the same step as strong acid peels; use them on different nights instead.
How long does niacinamide take to work?
Skin may feel more comfortable within days; changes in tone and texture usually take 8 to 12 weeks of daily use.
Is 1% niacinamide enough?
For everyday use, a gentle, well-formulated serum can be a good fit, especially for sensitive skin. Most research used 2–5%, so think of a 1% serum as a comfortable daily step rather than an intensive treatment.
Sources
Bissett D.L. et al. Niacinamide: a B vitamin that improves aging facial skin appearance. Dermatologic Surgery, 2005;31(7 Pt 2):860–865.
Product details are taken from the exokiss product pages. This article is general information, not medical advice.
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