Is Niacinamide Good for Acne – Find Out Here!

Key Takeaways

• Is niacinamide good for acne? Absolutely! But how exactly does it work in this area will be what we are exploring today. Read on or check out our website for more information!
• Niacinamide has an ideal concentration range for acne treatment, but you’ll have to read on for the answer. Learn why more isn't always better and how to choose the right product for your skin type while you’re at it.

What Is Niacinamide?

Niacinamide, also known as nicotinamide, is a form of vitamin B3 essential for maintaining healthy skin. This water-soluble vitamin has gained significant popularity in modern skincare due to its versatile benefits and gentle nature.

Thanks to its ability to address multiple skin concerns simultaneously, it's now an ingredient you can find in a lot of products, from niacinamide serums to moisturizers. What are these “versatile benefits” are we talking about? Let’s see:

• Reducing inflammation: It helps calm redness associated with acne, rosacea, and eczema.
• Minimizing pore appearance: Niacinamide can’t actually reduce the size of enlarged pores, but it can make them “look” smaller. 
• Improving skin hydration: It boosts the skin's natural ability to hold onto moisture. A better-hydrated skin is on the horizon!
• Enhancing skin barrier: Niacinamide strengthens the skin's protective barrier, making it more resilient to environmental stressors.
• Improve skin tone and texture: It helps get rid of dullness and dark spots for a brighter, more uniform complexion. Wrinkles and fine lines are also another concern niacinamide targets.
• Regulating oil production: Niacinamide can balance sebum levels. This feat is beneficial for both dry and oily skin types.

Niancimide’s multiple skin benefits. Source: Nano Singapore.

Still, the question remains: is niacinamide good for acne? Keep reading for the answer.

Is Niacinamide Good For Acne?

The short answer is yes! Niacinamide works against acne through two main mechanisms:

Acne treatment – Niacinamide's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce the redness and swelling acne tends to cause. It’s particularly effective for mild to moderate acne, even in cases where oral antibiotics fail! It can also fade post-acne marks and hyperpigmentation for a more even skin tone.

Acne prevention – You know niacinamide regulates sebum production. This fends off clogged pores, a.k.a a primary cause of acne. Additionally, it strengthens the skin barrier, making skin more resilient against acne-causing bacteria and environmental stressors.

Other than that, niacinamide can help mitigate potential irritation usually caused by other acne-fighting ingredients. We’re looking at you, salicylic acid!

How To Use Niacinamide In Your Acne Skincare Routine

Knowing does niacinamide helps with acne isn’t enough, you need to learn the right way to add it into your routine as well!

1. Ideal Concentration For Acne Treatment

When it comes to niacinamide for acne, more isn't always merrier. The sweet spot for acne treatment typically falls between 2% and 5%. At this concentration, niacinamide can work its magic without causing trouble on your skin.

Some studies have shown that a 4% niacinamide gel can be as effective as a 1% clindamycin gel in treating acne. This doesn't mean you should replace all antibiotic treatments with niacinamide, but it does show its potential as an acne-fighting ingredient.

For those of you thinking "go big or go home," pump the brakes. While concentrations up to 10% are generally safe, they might not provide additional benefits and could potentially irritate sensitive skin.

2. Products With Niacinamide

Niacinamide is the social butterfly of skincare. Some options for you to consider:

• Niacinamide Serums: These concentrated formulas are typically applied after cleansing but before moisturizing.
• Moisturizers: For a two-in-one approach, look for moisturizers with niacinamide. 
• Toners: Yes, toners have evolved beyond the stinging, alcohol-laden formulas of yesteryear. Niacinamide toners can help balance your skin while delivering this acne-fighting ingredient.
• Sunscreens: Some sunscreens now include niacinamide. Protection and treatment in one!

3. Popular Combinations For Acne Skincare Routine

This ultimate team player can work well in multiple combinations:

• Niacinamide + salicylic acid: This dynamic duo tackles acne from all angles. Salicylic acid unclogs pores, meanwhile, niacinamide regulates oil and soothes inflammation.
• Niacinamide + hyaluronic acid: For those times when your skin feels dry, this combo provides hydration alongside acne benefits.
• Niacinamide + retinol: The beauty world's power couple. Niacinamide can help control the potential irritation from retinol while both work on improving skin texture and fighting acne.

Nano Singapore’s serum guide sheet. Source: Nano Singapore.

5 Best Niacinamide Products For Acne Skin Care

1. Nano Skinz Niacinamide Serum

Why we choose it:

• Excellent hydration that can prevent the overproduction of oil when your skin is dehydrated
• Minimizes the look of pores, helpful for treating post-acne enlarged pores
• Can be combined with other products of Nano Skinz for the best acne treatment result

Nano Skinz Niacinamide Serum. Source: Nano Singapore.

Nano Skinz Niacinamide Serum is formulated to address multiple skin concerns in one efficient product.

If you've been struggling with post-acne hyperpigmentation or large pores, this serum might be just what you need. It deals with those problems and even out your skin tone. You’ll get a brighter look that might just boost your confidence.

And for all you impatient skincare enthusiasts out there (we see you!), here's some good news: this serum absorbs fast. No sticky residue, no waiting around - just quick-absorbing goodness that lets you get on with your day or your next skincare step.

2. The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

Why we choose it:

• High niacinamide concentration (10%), within the effective range for acne treatment
• Contains zinc PCA, beneficial for its oil-regulating properties
• Affordable price point, suitable for beginners
• Overwhelmingly positive user reviews

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%. Source: The Ordinary.

The Ordinary's Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is a budget-friendly serum with a growing reputation for being a powerful ally in the fight against acne. It puts all “is niacinamide good for acne” questions to rest!

The 10% niacinamide concentration works to reduce the appearance of blemishes and congestion while also balancing sebum production. The 1% zinc PCA complements niacinamide's effects by further regulating oil production and potentially soothing inflammation.

Even better, it’s free from alcohol, oil, and silicones; most skin types are safe with this one – including sensitive and acne-prone skin. It can be used both morning and night, ideally after water-based treatments and before heavier creams.

It features a water-based formula that's lightweight and quick-absorbing. You won’t have to fret about going to work late if this product is in your morning routine.

3. Paula's Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster

Why we choose it:

• Contains 10% niacinamide, an optimal concentration for niacinamide for acne
• Versatile formula that can be used alone or mixed with other skincare products
• Includes additional beneficial ingredients for skin health
• Suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone and sensitive skin

Paula's Choice Niacinamide Booster. Source: Paula’s Choice.

One of the best things about Paula's Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster is its chameleon-like ability to fit into any skincare routine. Whether you're a minimalist with just a cleanser and moisturizer, or you've got a 10-step routine that rivals a chemistry experiment, this booster will fit right in.

Users rave about how it helps balance their skin, reducing excess oil (goodbye, midday shine!) while still keeping their skin hydrated. Its science-backed formula and ability to play well with other skincare products really make it a standout choice. 

4. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo+ Moisturizer

Why we choose it:

• Contains niacinamide in a formula specifically designed for acne-prone skin
• Includes additional acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid
• Non-comedogenic formula, perfect for oily and acne-prone skin
• Backed by dermatological research and positive user reviews

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo+ Moisturizer. Source: La Roche-Posay.

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo+ Moisturizer answers the question "is niacinamide good for acne" with a resounding yes, backed by additional acne-fighting ingredients and positive user experiences.

This moisturizer doesn't just sit on your skin like an uninvited guest. It gets to work, bringing along salicylic acid to unclog pores and kick out dead skin cells.

But don't worry, this isn't some harsh, skin-stripping formula. It's got a gentle side too. The moisturizer hydrates your skin without turning it into an oil slick. It's oil-free and non-comedogenic, which is to say it won't clog your pores or throw a pimple party on your face.

5. Glossier Super Pure Niacinamide + Zinc Serum

Why we choose it:

• Formulated specifically for blemish-prone and stressed skin
• Lightweight, water-gel texture suitable for all skin types
• Free from potential irritants like alcohol, fragrance, and essential oils 
• Cruelty-free and vegan-friendly

Glossier Super Pure Niacinamide + Zinc Serum. Source: ShopStyle.

Glossier's Super Pure carries in itself 5% niacinamide, which might make you ask, "is niacinamide good for acne?" Well, this serum is here to prove that it absolutely is, especially when it's teamed up with zinc PCA.

This dynamic duo works together like a well-oiled machine. Niacinamide steps in to balance oil production and calm inflammation, while zinc PCA supports this mission by helping to soothe redness and regulate sebum.

Users with acne-prone and sensitive skin sing its praises. Many report that it helps keep their skin clear and balanced without causing irritation. All thanks to its gentle nature – free from alcohol, fragrance, or essential oils.

See more: The Difference Between Niacinamide And Vitamin C

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How Much Percentage Of Niacinamide Is Good For Acne Prone Skin?

If you catch yourself thinking more niacinamide means more acne-fighting power, stop. It’s not really the truth. 

For acne-prone skin, a sweet spot of 2-5% niacinamide is typically recommended. Some products go up to 10%, which can be effective but might irritate sensitive skin.

2. Does Niacinamide Help With Acne Scars?

Fortunately, yes! Just like how it clears up your dark spots, it works by boosting collagen production and reducing inflammation, which can help fade post-acne marks over time.