This skincare multitasker is a derm-favourite for evening tone and texture

With its ability to brighten skin, control oil, and soothe inflammation, niacinamide is having a moment — as are the best niacinamide serum formulations. That shouldn’t be a total surprise. When it comes to active ingredients in skincare products, niacinamide is among the few that have years of research to back up their benefits, putting it up there with household names like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and retinol.

The benefits of niacinamide are multifaceted, meaning they work for just about every skin type out there. “Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3, a multitasking antioxidant that can help soothe and hydrate the skin, reverse the signs of aging, lighten dark spots and redness as well as reduce inflammation — which may benefit conditions like acne and rosacea,” explains Deanne Robinson, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Westport, Connecticut.

Meet the expert:

The best niacinamide serums at a glance:

1. Best Overall: La Roche-Posay 10% Pure Niacinamide Serum, £34.99
2. The Runner-Up: Paula’s Choice Clinical 20% Niacinamide Treatment, £50
3. Best For Dark Spots: SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense Corrective Serum, £100
4. Best New Release: Naturium Niacinamide Serum 12% Plus Zinc 2%, £18

Paula’s Choice CLINICAL Niacinamide 20% Treatment

SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense Serum

Naturium Niacinamide Serum 12% Plus Zinc 2%

It’s also one skin care ingredient that plays well with others, thanks in part to those anti-inflammatory chops — so much so that you can (and should) pair them strategically. “Niacinamide is a soothing ingredient, so it can help make an exfoliating ingredient or product more tolerable to sensitive skin, allowing you to use it more frequently and see the benefits of it,” she says. “Because of these properties, it pairs well with retinols and alpha hydroxy acids, or AHAs.”

Thought that was it? Nope. Niacinamide can also enhance the hydrating benefits of humectants—think hyaluronic acid and glycerin—so it’s a winner in moisturisers too. “It works by preventing evaporation of moisture from the skin into the environment,” Dr. Robinson explains; in other words, it helps supplement the skin barrier. You can also find it in cleansers and toners, although she prefers face serums for their higher rate of absorption. Heads up: To maximise niacinamide’s benefits, sunscreen is essential, so make sure you follow up your serum with a product that has at least SPF 30, which is the minimum amount recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology. Bottom line: There’s no reason not to slot this topical ingredient into your skin care routine, stat.

Scroll ahead for the best niacinamide serum for every preference and skin type — guaranteed to help you make the most of this powerhouse ingredient.