We Tested 10 Dermatologist-Recommended Niacinamide Serums — Here Are the Ones We Liked Best for Glowing Skin

When I tested it, the cream delivered long-lasting moisture without feeling greasy. It made my dry skin feel comfortable, supple, and noticeably healthier. I used it when I experienced flakiness and tightness, and it instantly smoothed my complexion and strengthened my skin. It is on the pricier side, compared with other options on the list, but it is ideal for people following a vegan lifestyle, as it’s made with entirely botanical ingredients.

The serum’s lightweight, fluid texture makes it one of the most effective ways to deliver niacinamide to the skin, explains Green. “For many of my patients, a niacinamide serum will provide the most benefit, [especially] as a serum that is lightweight and easily absorbs,” she says. The star flower gives the serum a pearlized look that leaves skin looking dewy, perfect for my morning routine.

After six weeks of daily use, my skin felt more hydrated, and I needed less highlighter to achieve a radiant glow. This is an expensive product, but the pearlized finish lets it double as a makeup primer, making it worth the splurge.

COSRX The Niacinamide 15 Serum is ideal for addressing enlarged pores, due to its potent 15 percent concentration of niacinamide and its lightweight formula. “Individuals with oily skin will experience more benefits from a lighter formulation, such as a gel or pad, that does not clog their pores,” explains Green.

I found the lightweight texture absorbed into my skin quickly without any residue or uncomfortable tacky feeling. I have large pores on my cheeks, and after using this serum for six weeks, they looked less noticeable.

This booster from Paula’s Choice is our top choice for sensitive skin, thanks to its meticulously formulated, fragrance-free approach to delivering the benefits of niacinamide. Sensitive skin requires gentle yet effective ingredients, and this booster excels by providing a potent 10 percent niacinamide concentration without fragrance, dyes, or alcohol.

I especially loved the lightweight liquid texture of this product and how quickly it absorbs into the skin. It is fairly expensive for a serum that’s marketed as a booster product, but if you have sensitive skin and want to avoid a reaction, a gentle serum like this may be worth the splurge.

One potential drawback is that the product has a floral fragrance that smells more synthetic than botanical. This was not my preference, but others may feel differently. Ultimately, the value of this product is undeniable.

“Incorporating niacinamide into your skin-care routine can enhance skin clarity and luminosity, giving you a healthy, glowing appearance,” explains Green. When a drugstore product can do this effectively, it’s worth adding to your routine, especially if you’re on a budget.

Drunk Elephant B-Goldi Bright Drops contain a 5 percent concentration of niacinamide, which is the concentration Engelman recommends for best results. The formula also contains diglucosyl gallic acid, a powerful brightening ingredient that targets hyperpigmentation and is known for its skin-brightening properties. The “goldi” effect comes from light-reflecting particles that impart an instant, healthy glow, while key active ingredients help to improve skin clarity and brightness over time.

Elizabeth Arden Retinol Ceramide Line Erasing Eye Cream is Engelman’s pick for the delicate eye area. “Made with niacinamide, peptides, ceramides, and retinol, this clinically backed eye cream effectively de-puffs, smooths, and brightens under the eyes — improving the appearance of this area both immediately and over time,” she says.