13 Best Niacinamide Serums for Brighter Skin

Niacinamide is a skincare ingredient that is very popular in the beauty market due to its anti-ageing, breakout busting and brightening properties. Also known as nicotinamide, it is the active form of B3 and is important for overall health, particularly skincare. 

Its anti-inflammatory properties make it a useful ingredient for skin conditions, e.g., eczema, and acne. It helps control the oil production by the sebaceous glands and thus prevents excessive oil production in the skin. However, it is far more than an acne-fighting product. It improves the skin tone and blocks the enzymes responsible for melanin production.  

A clinical study published in the British Journal of Dermatology in 2002 noted that using 5% nicotinamide moisturisers causes significant improvements in hyperpigmentation. Likewise, it slows down the appearance of wrinkles on the skin by boosting collagen production in the skin. It also increases the production of ceramides, prevents water loss in compromised and dry skin and improves skin's barrier functions. 

The Welzo health & beauty professionals tested various niacinamide serums with technical instruments in their laboratory to measure changes in the skin and also judged them according to consumer feedback. The reports by our laboratories and user reviews helped us shorten the list to the following products. 

Product Specifications

AA Skincare Niacinamide Brightening Face Serum: AA Skincare’s Niacinamide Brightening Face Serum soothes and hydrates the skin and reduces the redness. It has a coconut scent and is affordable and effective.  The Inkey List Niacinamide Serum (20%): Thus serum tightens the skin pores, reduces oil production and is available in fragrance-free formulae. It is best for oily skin types. Minimalist 5% Niacinamide Serum for Glowing & Clear Skin: It is effective for hydration and even skin tone. However, it is suitable for sensitive skin and is fragrance-free. Revolution Skincare London Niacinamide Serum: It is an affordable serum that reduces skin pores and blemishes. It is vegan and effective for all skin types.  Bowasin Niacinamide Facial Moisturizing Essence: It effectively reduces wrinkles and dark spots. It balances oil production and is suitable for all skin types.  Paula’s Choice Niacinamide Lightweight Face Serum: It is expensive yet effective. It brightens skin, reduces pores, and improves its texture.  Balance Active Formula Niacinamide Blemish Recovery Serum for Clear Skin: It is lightweight, highly effective for blemishes, and non-sticky with noticeable skin improvement.  Eva Naturals Niacinamide Serum for Face: It balances oil and hydration effectively and reduces pores, fine lines, and uneven skin tone. Indy Beauty Niacinamide Serum: It hydrates and clarifies the skin, minimises pores, and balances oil with a vegan, fragrance-free formula.  Simple Niacinamide Booster Serum for Even Skin Tone: It is a smooth, hydrating, non-greasy, and fragrance-free formula suitable for all skin types.  QRxLabs NiacinaMax Serum With 10% Niacinamide: It is a powerful serum with 10% niacinamide that effectively reduces blemishes and pores with its anti-inflammatory ingredients.  Revolution Skincare London Niacinamide Super Strength Serum: It is a potent 15% niacinamide serum that reduces pores and blemishes. It is vegan and cruelty-free.  INSKIN Niacinamide Serum for Blemishes: It effectively minimises pores and blemishes, hydrates, balances oil, and improves skin texture.

AA Skincare Niacinamide Brightening Face Serum

Price & availability: £12.95 (buy Niacinamide Brightening Face Serum at Amazon UK)

Percentage of niacinamide: 12%

Skin types: All

Ingredients: Retinol, vitamin A, ceramides, antioxidants, vitamin C 

Active ingredients: Niacinamide, vitamin B3, coconut oil, vitamin A, vitamin C & zinc

User reviews: 4/ 5 

Why do we choose it?: AA Skincare Niacinamide Brightening Face Serum is an excellent blend of 2% zinc and 12% niacinamide that addresses multiple skin concerns and enhances skin radiance. It provides hydration, targets uneven skin tone and smooths the skin complexion, making it the best choice for all skin types. The active form of vitamin B3 or niacinamide reduces blotchiness and redness and supports the healthy lipid barrier of the skin. 

These factors benefit inflammatory skin conditions, e.g., eczema and acne. Likewise, it regulates skin pores' appearance and oil production. Its rich formula has antioxidants, retinol and coconut oil, further adding to its brightening and soothing abilities. Due to its natural composition and coconut scent, it is a versatile addition to skincare routines.

The Inkey List Niacinamide Serum (20%)

Price & availability: £10.00 (buy The Inkey List Niacinamide Serum at Amazon UK)

Percentage of niacinamide: 20%

Skin types: Oily

Ingredients: Zinc, niacinamide 

Active ingredients: Niacinamide 

User reviews: 4.4/ 5 

Why do we choose it?: The Inkey List 20% Niacinamide Serum is one of the best treatments for people with oily skin. It has a highly potent formula that contains 20% niacinamide that promises to reduce the appearance of skin pores, improve the skin texture and regulate the excessive oil production in the skin. It has zinc that addresses sebum production and squalane that helps maintain the skin's skin's barrier functions. 

Furthermore, it is non-greasy, lightweight and fragrance-free, making it suitable for daily use. It is cruelty-free cruelty-free, tested by dermatologists, and fits into various skincare routines. It is thus a superb choice for those struggling with oily skin due to its sharp focus on tightening the skin pores and reducing oil production. 

Minimalist 5% Niacinamide Serum for Glowing & Clear Skin

Price & availability: £11.99 (buy Minimalist 5% Niacinamide Serum at Amazon UK)

Percentage of niacinamide: 5%

Skin types: Dry, sensitive

Ingredients: Paraben free, fragrance free, dye free and silicone free

Active ingredients: Antioxidants

User reviews: 4.2/ 5

Why do we choose it?: The Minimalist 5% Niacinamide Serum for Glowing and Clear Skin is versatile for sensitive and dry skin. It contains 5% niacinamide that helps achieve an even and clear skin tone by targeting the skin blemishes and dark spots and reducing the melanin production in the skin. It has 1% hyaluronic acid that helps prevent moisture loss and delivers deep hydration, while niacinamide and aloe vera help repair the skin barrier. 

It promises to control sebum production, minimise skin pores, and refine skin texture, making it suitable for skin texture issues and acne. It is non-comedogenic and has a hypoallergenic formula, as it is free of dyes, parabens, sulphates, silicones and fragrances. Its benefits and clean formulation make it a solid choice for regular skincare.

Revolution Skincare London Niacinamide Serum

Price & availability: £5.99 (buy Revolution Skincare London Niacinamide Serum at Amazon UK)

Percentage of niacinamide: 10%

Skin types: Dry 

Ingredients: Vegan & natural

Active ingredients: Vitamin C, niacinamide, zinc

User reviews: 4.3/ 5

Why do we choose it?: The Revolution Skincare London Niacinamide Serum contains 10% niacinamide and 1% Zina and is a budget-friendly product for those who want to minimise skin pores and tackle blemishes. Two active ingredients in its formulation (zinc and niacinamide) help soothe the active blemishes and oil production. This lightweight serum is best for all skin types, even sensitive skin, and offers a gentle approach to address various skin care concerns. 

Its cruelty-free and vegan formula is free of animal testing, has no animal ingredients, and aligns perfectly with beauty practices. To use, shake the bottle well and apply just a few drops on the dry and clean skin in the morning and evening. Its affordable price tag and skincare benefits make it an excellent choice for those who want to get smoother and clearer skin.

Bowasin Niacinamide Facial Moisturizing Essence

Price & availability: £8.99 (buy Bowasin Niacinamide Facial Moisturizing Essence at Amazon UK)

Percentage of niacinamide: 10%

Skin types: All

Ingredients: Drops

Active ingredients: Nicotinamide 

User reviews: 4/ 5

Why do we choose it?: The Bowasin Niacinamide Facial Moisturizing Essence contains 1% zinc and 10% niacinamide and is a potent solution to tackle various skin concerns. Its lightweight formulas improve the overall skin tone, minimise wrinkles, reduce dark spots, and target melanin production in the skin. Adding 1% zinc helps manage the skin blemishes and reduces the skin pores. Its formulae balance the skin's moisture levels and oil production and address the skincare concerns, e.g., acne and blackheads. 

Its suitability for dry and sensitive skin makes it best for all skin types, and its non-sticky and non-greasy formulation makes it easy to apply. As it is highly cost-effective, it is thus a comprehensive solution for hydration, anti-aging, and skin brightening, making it a valuable addition to the skincare routine.

Paula’s Choice Niacinamide Lightweight Face Serum

Price & availability: £49.00 (buy Paula’s Choice Niacinamide Lightweight Face Serum at Amazon UK)

Percentage of niacinamide: 10%

Skin types: Normal, dry, sensitive, combination

Ingredients: Nicotinamide

User reviews: 4.1/ 5

Why do we choose it?: Paula's Choice Niacinamide Lightweight Face Serum is a lightweight and highly effective facial serum that works against various skin concerns. It has 10% niacinamide that refines the skin texture, minimises the skin pores and reduces the appearance of fine lines and brown spots. It is fragrance-free, can be used alone or in combination with other serums and moisturisers, and is suitable for all skin types, even sensitive ones. 

Its handy size makes it a versatile product for various skincare routines. Although it has a higher price tag, the results, e.g., reduced ageing signs, diminished pores, and improved skin tone, justify this cost. It is one of the best choices for a youthful and polished complexion.

Balance Active Formula Niacinamide Blemish Recovery Serum for Clear Skin

Price & availability: £5.00 (buy Balance Active Formula Niacinamide Blemish Recovery Serum for Clear Skin at Amazon UK)

Percentage of niacinamide: 15%

Skin types: All

Ingredients: Vitamin B3

Active ingredients: Antioxidants

User reviews: 4.2/ 5

Why do we choose it?: Balance Active Formula Niacinamide Blemish Recovery Serum for Clear Skin is a promising solution for people struggling with uneven skin texture and blemishes. It has 15% niacinamide and effectively targets blemishes, refines the skin texture and soothes the troubled skin. Its non-sticky and lightweight formula has quick absorption, is ideal for daily use, and doesn't leave any greasy residues. 

Many users experienced beneficial effects, as noted in an independent study in which 90% of the regular users reported precise results in just four weeks. Additionally, it is budget-friendly and still doesn't compromise on quality. It is ideal for all skin types and is an excellent addition to the skincare routine for those looking for a radiant and clear complexion.

Eva Naturals Niacinamide Serum for Face

Price & availability: £9.99 (buy Eva Naturals Niacinamide Serum for Face at Amazon UK)

Percentage of niacinamide: 12%

Skin types: Dehydrated skin

Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, vitamin B3, zinc, niacinamide

Active ingredients: Nicotinamide 

User reviews: 4.2/ 5

Why do we choose it?: Eva Naturals Niacinamide Serum for Face combines Niacinamide with hyaluronic acid and zinc, addressing various skincare concerns. This 60ml bottle evens the skin tone, boots hydration, reduces oiliness and minimises the skin pores. It has 12% niacinamide that improves the skin texture and smooths the fine lines, while it has 2% zinc that manages the oil production in the skin. 

These features make it versatile for those with blemished and oily skin. It has natural ingredients and is an effective and safe solution for achieving a better, clear, balanced complexion. It is a budget-friendly choice for those who want to engage in appearance and skin health.

Indy Beauty Niacinamide Serum

Price & availability: £9.99 (buy Indy Beauty Niacinamide Serum at Amazon UK)

Percentage of niacinamide: 10%

Skin types: Combination, oily

Ingredients: Natural, vegan

Active ingredients: Salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid

User reviews: 4.1/ 5

Why do we choose it?: Indy Beauty 10% Niacinamide Serum offers a compelling blend catering to those seeking a balanced, more transparent skin. It has salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid, and 1% zinc, which target combination and oily skin types and help improve skin tone, balance sebum production, and minimise skin pores. It has willow bark extract that protects the skin barrier and engages skin elasticity due to its natural BHA. 

It is fragrant-free, making it a good choice for sensitive skin. It can be used alone or combined with makeup. It is designed in Sweden using a vegan formula and reflects the brand's commitment to ethical production and Beauty. It is thus an affordable and effective solution for those who want to achieve a glowing and refined complexion.

Simple Niacinamide Booster Serum for Even Skin Tone

Price & availability: £7.20 (buy Simple Niacinamide Booster Serum at Amazon UK)

Percentage of niacinamide: 10%

Skin types: Oily, all

Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid

Active ingredients: Vegan, natural

User reviews: 4.3/ 5

Why do we choose it?: Simple Niacinamide Booster Serum for Even Skin Tone is a versatile product suitable for people with all skin types. It has 1% vitamin B5 and 10% niacinamide (B3) and is designed to enhance the skin texture, soothe dryness and increase the skin hydration. It minimises wrinkles, reduces the poor size, balances the sebum production and calms the redness. 

Additionally, it is free of artificial fragrances, alcohol and chemicals and is a PETA-approved vegan product with over 88% naturally derived chemicals. It is less costly, available at a discount and affordable for those who want to achieve even toned and smoother skin. This serum pairs well with various makeup choices and offers optimal results.

QRxLabs NiacinaMax Serum With 10% Niacinamide

Price & availability: £14.95 (buy QRxLabs NiacinaMax Serum at Amazon UK)

Percentage of niacinamide: 10%

Skin types: Dry

Ingredients: Allantoin, niacinamide, vitamin B3, vitamin b5, nicotinamide, calendula extract

Active ingredients: Nicotinamide 

User reviews: 4.4/ 5

Why do we choose it?: QRxLabs Niacinamide Serum With 10%, Niacinamide is a potent solution that targets various skin imperfections. It contains numerous ingredients, e.g., allantoin, calendula extract, and tea tree oil, that help fight the acne-causing bacteria. Likewise, it has vitamin B5, improving skin texture and better skin penetration for maximum effectiveness. Additionally, it smooths the skin surface, reduces the pore size and helps address the skin inflammation and breakouts. 

This professional-grade product is priced less and is made in the USA with eco-friendly practices and natural ingredients for better efficacy. It is the ideal product for those looking for radiant and clear skin with minimal irritation.

Revolution Skincare London Niacinamide Super Strength Serum

Price & availability: £9.99 (buy Revolution Skincare London Niacinamide Super Strength Serum at Amazon UK)

Percentage of niacinamide: 15%

Skin types: All

Ingredients: Niacinamide, zinc, vitamin b3

Active ingredients: Niacinamide 

User reviews: 4.5/ 5 

Why do we choose it?: Revolution Skincare London Niacinamide Super Strength Serum is a potent product that helps minimise large skin pores and address blemishes. It contains zinc and niacinamide to soothe active blemishes, regulate oil production, and promise an even and clearer complexion. Its non-greasy and lightweight formula softens and hydrates the skin while offering a smoother texture. It works for all skin types and can be used in the evening and morning for better results. 

It is a cruelty-free, budget-friendly and vegan serum that offers an effective solution without animal testing and animal ingredients. It is advised to shake it well and apply just a few drops on the dry and clean area for better use. It is thus a great choice for those looking to enhance the texture and clarity of the skin.

INSKIN Niacinamide Serum for Blemishes

Price & availability: £5.89 (buy INSKIN Niacinamide Serum at Amazon UK)

Percentage of niacinamide: XX

Skin types: All

Ingredients: Vitamin A

Active ingredients: Niacinamide

User reviews: 4.1/ 5

Why do we choose it?: INSKIN Niacinamide Serum for Blemishes is a powerful skincare product that promises to improve skin texture and tackle blemishes. This serum contains zinc and high-strength niacinamide to control oil production, help reduce pore size, and diminish dark spots. It balances the skin's oil production and hydration and minimises the blockage of the pores and redness. 

It also soothes and hydrates the skin while addressing sun exposure and hyperpigmentation. It is cost-effective and offers an affordable way to achieve firm, glowing skin with better texture and reduced fine lines. It works for all skin types and provides the best skin hydration and better complexion, making it a valuable addition to skincare.

Frequently Asked Questions  

What percentage of niacinamide works for skin brightness? 

As compared to the lower percentages, the serums containing 10% niacinamide have better anti-ageing results and have dramatic skin-brightening effects. It is far better than a 5% product. 

Is it ok to use 5% niacinamide serum daily? 

Yes, using niacinamide serums every day is the recommended choice for better skin benefits. Some skin experts recommend applying it twice daily to see visible improvements in the skin complexion, discoloration and ageing. 

How fast do the niacinamide serums brighten the skin? 

It depends upon personal factors. Although many people have individual health needs, most users experience visible changes in almost 8-12 weeks. The 5% and 10% strengths take variable durations to work. 

Which is better for skin brightening? Niacinamide or vitamin C?

Both vitamin C and nicotinamide help reduce hyperpigmentation. Vitamin C helps fade skin spots and is an effective skin brightener. The niacinamide on the other hand regulates the production of melanin in the skin. 

What are the highest available percentages of niacinamide? 

Niacinamide is a versatile product that has numerous benefits for the skin. It is available as 20% formulations. These percentages need consultation with dermatologists for use. 

Bottom-line 

Using nicotinamide serums in the daily skincare routine is a game changer that helps achieve smoother, healthier, brighter skin. These serums offer numerous solutions for various skin types, improve skin texture, reduce dark spots, and improve overall skin radiance. 

So, whether a person is looking for products for skin dullness, acne or hyperpigmentation, the 13 best niacinamide serums by Welzo offer science-backed solutions to all these problems. It is necessary to choose these products according to personal needs and skin types and select only those that best fit them and offer transformative benefits. 

In addition to serums, we have numerous body skincare creams, 15 of the best face scrubs for radiant skin tested by experts, and anti-ageing creams. Visit the respective collection pages to buy them.