Want a serum that's multitasker? Try a niacinamide serum! Packed with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and photoprotective properties, this can help repair and fortify your skin barrier. It's helpful for skin brightening, pore minimizing, oil control, and even reducing fine lines. They're also safe for all skin types!
With the numerous niacinamide serums in Lazada and Shopee right now, choosing which is the best one could be a daunting task. To help you with that, not only do we have a top 10 list, but we also curated a buying guide with the help of board-certified dermatologist Dr. Meg Sison that outlines the top considerations to get the best niacinamide serum for you.
Quick List - Top Niacinamide Serums
Dermorepubliq
Combines Acne Control and Hydration With Skin Healing Ingredients
Luxe Organix
Brighten Your Complexion With This Whitening Serum That Targets Dark Spots
Dr. Sison is a board-certified dermatologist who practices in the Philippines and sees both medical and cosmetic dermatological cases on skin, hair, and nails.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
Combines Acne Control and Hydration With Skin Healing Ingredients
Brighten Your Complexion With This Whitening Serum That Targets Dark Spots
Lightweight and Non-Irritating Serum Perfect for Sensitive Skin
Brightens, Hydrates, and Protects Skin Against Environmental Stressors
If you are starting on niacinamide serums, you may be wondering: what's the best percentage to start with? What ingredients should it contain? Well, never fear, this buying guide will help you choose which niacinamide serum works for you!
Some serums may differ in terms of how much niacinamide is infused in the product. Depending on what your skin demands, you can always choose what percentage of niacinamide concentration level your serum must have. Below are some examples of these and in what circumstances they work best.
For beginners, it is best to start with the lowest concentration of 2%. Even at 2%, niacinamide can work wonders for your skin. Note that the ease of using a higher percentage depends on your skin type or the specific skin concerns you are targeting.
Anyone can use niacinamide serums as long as they do not experience redness, itching, tingling, or breakout after using the product. Thus, it’s best to look for niacinamide serums within this range to avoid irritation.
Consistency over intensity is key when it comes to skincare. Apply the serum once or twice a day after cleansing and toning. It can take around 6 months to see significant improvements in your skin when using niacinamide, so be patient!
If you’ve been using niacinamide serums for some time, you may slowly transition to a higher percentage if you want enhanced benefits. It’s also worth noting that brands produce niacinamide serums beginning at 10%.
At this percentage, niacinamide provides greater oil and acne control, improves skin elasticity, and further brightens and evens out tone. Still, it’s best to test for irritation before applying a serum on your entire face.
Higher concentration does not necessarily yield better and faster results. It has the potential for increased irritation so it is best to start with the lowest concentration first and see how your skin reacts to the product.
Although there are niacinamide serums at this percentage, it’s best to consult with a dermatologist, especially if you have more advanced skin concerns. Furthermore, using skincare alone may not be enough.
At 20%, niacinamide may cause skin burning, especially if applied improperly. So, it’s best to ask for advice from a dermatologist to determine the underlying causes of your skin concerns.
When choosing niacinamide serums, it is important to consider the efficacy as well as the overall product formulation. When in doubt, consult a board-certified dermatologist for guidance.
Niacinamide is compatible with most skincare ingredients. This allows you to create a customized regimen targeting your needs. You can strategically combine niacinamide with other actives to enhance its effectiveness.
For smoother, glowing skin texture, use niacinamide with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic or lactic acid and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid. The niacinamide helps control any dryness from the exfoliants.
Almost all skincare ingredients can be paired with niacinamide like retinoids, AHAs, BHAs, peptides, etc. Look for niacinamide, retinoids, AHAs and BHAs if you are concerned with dark marks and oily skin.
Pairing niacinamide with retinoids helps tackle signs of aging and acne simultaneously. Niacinamide calms irritation that can come from retinoids. Together, they regulate oil production, minimize pores, stimulate collagen, and reduce fine lines and discoloration.
Do remember to check the concentration of the retinoid since it's a potent ingredient! Again, it's best to start low and slow, especially if you're a beginner or have sensitive skin.
Niacinamide, AHAs, BHAs, and retinoids can help even the skin tone and lessen the post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. To ensure that the right products work for you it is still best to consult a board-certified dermatologist for an individualized approach to your skin concern.
If dryness or dehydration is a concern, combine niacinamide with ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, allantoin, and panthenol. This provides moisture while repairing and strengthening the skin barrier. This helps retain hydration, which is beneficial even for oily skin.
Even if your niacinamide serum has moisturizing ingredients, remember that moisturizer is still essential to your skincare routine. A moisturizer will help lock in the niacinamide serum that you will use.
Vitamin C and niacinamide work together to brighten skin and fade discoloration; they also provide protection from external irritants. Some brands even produce serums that combine both vitamin C and niacinamide!
If you have a sensitive skin and you plan to use both actives, it is best to use vitamin C in your morning routine and niacinamide at night. As niacinamide together with vitamin C forms niacin which causes temporary redness of the skin.
When choosing a niacinamide serum, opt for a formula that suits your skin type. For oily or combination skin, look for a lightweight gel or fluid serum. For normal to dry skin, a serum that has a richer, almost lotion-like texture may be more hydrating.
The serum’s texture should complement your skin’s needs as the right texture allows maximum absorption of the product to the skin to reap its benefits. It should be able to provide hydration without feeling heavy on the skin.
Niacinamide serums typically have a watery consistency, so they can easily set on your skin upon application.
There are also thicker serums which can provide a bit of moisture. However, it still depends on the formulation. If the serum has glycerin, hyaluronic acid, panthenol, allantoin, etc., then it can contribute to moisturizing the skin. However, it is still best to use a separate moisturizer after applying the serum to lock in the moisture.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Concentration | Best For | Other Key Ingredients | Texture | Net Weight | |||||
1 | Dermorepubliq 5% Niacinamide + Hyaluronic Acid for Sensitive Skin Formula | ![]() | Combines Acne Control and Hydration With Skin Healing Ingredients | 5% | Sensitive Skin、Combination Skin | Hyaluronic Acid, Snail Secretion Filtrate, Cucumber Extract, Aloe Vera Leaf Extract, Allantoin | Gel、Watery | 30mL | |
2 | Good Molecules Niacinamide Serum | ![]() | Minimize Pores and Even Out Skin Tone With This Gentle Serum | 10% | All Skin Types | Water, Dipropylene Glycol, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Betaine, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin | Watery | 30mL | |
3 | Klued 5% Niacinamide Serum | ![]() | Lightweight Serum That Targets Redness and Irritation | 5% | All Skin Types | Vitamin E, Ceramides | Watery | 30mL | |
4 | Luxe Organix Whitening Repair Ultralight Glow Serum | ![]() | Brighten Your Complexion With This Whitening Serum That Targets Dark Spots | 10% | All Skin Types | Salicylic Acid, Alpha Hydroxy Acid | Watery | 30mL | |
5 | AXIS-Y Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum | ![]() | A Hydrating Serum That Brightens and Evens Out Your Skin Tone | 5% | Normal Skin | Papaya, Sea Buckthorn and Oryza Sativa Rice Bran, Squalene, Allantoin, Calendula | Gel | 50mL | |
6 | Dr. Sensitive Niacinamide 5% + Salicylic Acid Serum | ![]() | Lightweight and Non-Irritating Serum Perfect for Sensitive Skin | 5% | All Skin Types | Salicylic Acid, Alpha Hydroxy Acid, Hyaluronic Acid | Gel、Watery | 30mL | |
7 | COSRX The Niacinamide 15 Serum | ![]() | Achieve Clear, Smooth Skin With This Serum’s Fast-absorbing Formula | 15% | Oily Skin、Acne-Prone Skin、Combination Skin | N-Acetylglucosamine, Zinc PCA, Allantoin | Lightweight、Watery | 20mL | |
8 | Gratitude Bar Bright Drops Brightening Serum | ![]() | Brightens, Hydrates, and Protects Skin Against Environmental Stressors | 5% | All Skin Types | Alpha Arbutin, 7 Types of Hyaluronic Acid | Lightweight、Watery | 15mL | |
9 | L’Oreal Paris Glycolic Bright 8% Serum | ![]() | Achieve a Radiant Glow With This Brightening Serum | 8% | Normal Skin | Melasyl, Glycolic Acid | Watery、Non-Sticky | 15mL | |
10 | The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum | ![]() | Controls Oil and Refines Skin Texture for a Clearer Complexion | 10% | Oily Skin、Combination Skin | Pentylene Glycol, Zinc PCA, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Tamarindus Indica Seed Gum, Xanthan gum, Isoceteth-20, Ethoxydiglycol, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin | Gel、Watery | 30mL |
Concentration | 5% |
---|---|
Best For | Sensitive Skin、Combination Skin |
Looking for a serum that balances acne treatment with hydration? This Dermorepubliq serum combines ingredients like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and cucumber extract to target blemishes and deliver deep moisture. Niacinamide reduces inflammation and hyperpigmentation, while hyaluronic acid boosts hydration and smooths fine lines.
Aloe vera and snail secretion filtrate also soothe and heal, improving the skin's texture and appearance. Plus, it's free from sulfates, silicones, parabens, polymers, formaldehyde, artificial colorants, and artificial scents. Reviews highlight the serum's gentle yet effective formula that hydrates without irritation, improves skin tone, and reduces acne scars.
Other Key Ingredients | Hyaluronic Acid, Snail Secretion Filtrate, Cucumber Extract, Aloe Vera Leaf Extract, Allantoin |
---|---|
Texture | Gel、Watery |
Concentration | 10% |
---|---|
Best For | All Skin Types |
Other Key Ingredients | Water, Dipropylene Glycol, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Betaine, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin |
---|---|
Texture | Watery |
Concentration | 5% |
---|---|
Best For | All Skin Types |
Other Key Ingredients | Vitamin E, Ceramides |
---|---|
Texture | Watery |
Concentration | 10% |
---|---|
Best For | All Skin Types |
LUXE ORGANIX Whitening Repair Serum can be your go-to for a glowing, even complexion! Infused with 10% Niacinamide, this serum effectively addresses dark spots and uneven skin tone, leaving your skin brighter and more radiant. It also refines texture and smoothens the skin’s surface, promoting a youthful glow.
Its lightweight, non-greasy formula quickly absorbs into the skin, providing deep hydration while enhancing your skin's natural radiance. Ideal for daily use, this serum leaves skin soft and refreshed, delivering visible results without irritation. It’s a must-have for anyone looking to brighten their skin and achieve a smooth, even tone.
Other Key Ingredients | Salicylic Acid, Alpha Hydroxy Acid |
---|---|
Texture | Watery |
Concentration | 5% |
---|---|
Best For | Normal Skin |
Other Key Ingredients | Papaya, Sea Buckthorn and Oryza Sativa Rice Bran, Squalene, Allantoin, Calendula |
---|---|
Texture | Gel |
Concentration | 5% |
---|---|
Best For | All Skin Types |
This Dr. Sensitive serum is the perfect solution for brighter, more even skin! With 5% niacinamide, it brightens and refines skin texture, while salicylic acid (BHA) gently exfoliates to unclog pores and smooth rough patches. It also helps lighten pigmentation and reduce blemishes, leaving you with a clearer, radiant complexion.
The serum’s lightweight, non-irritating formula also absorbs quickly without feeling sticky or heavy, making it perfect for layering with other skincare products. Plus, it’s completely fragrance-free, which makes it suitable even for sensitive skin. Reviews highlight that it’s proven, tested, and offers great value for money.
Other Key Ingredients | Salicylic Acid, Alpha Hydroxy Acid, Hyaluronic Acid |
---|---|
Texture | Gel、Watery |
Concentration | 15% |
---|---|
Best For | Oily Skin、Acne-Prone Skin、Combination Skin |
COSRX The Niacinamide 15 Serum is the perfect solution for oily, acne-prone skin! With a powerful 15% niacinamide concentration, it effectively controls sebum production, reduces acne inflammation, and fades post-acne scars. It also helps refine pores and smooth rough texture, revealing a healthier, more balanced complexion.
Enriched with N-Acetylglucosamine and Allantoin, it calms breakouts and supports skin regeneration as well. Plus, it has a lightweight, fast-absorbing formula that delivers visible improvements in skin texture and tone while keeping your skin radiant and refreshed.
Other Key Ingredients | N-Acetylglucosamine, Zinc PCA, Allantoin |
---|---|
Texture | Lightweight、Watery |
Concentration | 5% |
---|---|
Best For | All Skin Types |
Other Key Ingredients | Alpha Arbutin, 7 Types of Hyaluronic Acid |
---|---|
Texture | Lightweight、Watery |
Concentration | 8% |
---|---|
Best For | Normal Skin |
Other Key Ingredients | Melasyl, Glycolic Acid |
---|---|
Texture | Watery、Non-Sticky |
Concentration | 10% |
---|---|
Best For | Oily Skin、Combination Skin |
Achieve a balanced and clear complexion with this product by The Ordinary! This lightweight, water-based formula addresses visible shine and congestion, helping to reduce excess oil and refine skin texture. It has niacinamide, which brightens the skin, and zinc which helps control sebum production, making it ideal for those with oily or combination skin.
It also works to hydrate the skin, reinforcing the skin barrier over time for a smoother, more even appearance. Plus, its fast-absorbing formula leaves a matte finish, making it perfect for layering with other products.
Other Key Ingredients | Pentylene Glycol, Zinc PCA, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Tamarindus Indica Seed Gum, Xanthan gum, Isoceteth-20, Ethoxydiglycol, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin |
---|---|
Texture | Gel、Watery |
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by Dr. Meg Sison.
You can! The great thing about niacinamide is that you can use it in any part of your skincare routine. However, it’s best to use a maximum of 2 to 3 products only to avoid irritation, as our skin and humid weather aren’t that suited for a 10-step skincare routine.
There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to using niacinamide serums. But, generally, if you’re new to using the serum, it’s best to apply it twice a week. You can either apply in the morning, evening, or both.
Use it for two weeks, and if your skin doesn’t react negatively, you can increase it to three times a week, and so on.
Niacinamide does not cause purging because it does not increase the cell turnover of skin cells.
Adding serums to your skincare routine helps target various skin concerns such as dark spots, uneven complexion, acne, excess oil, and more. To look for the right serum for you, check out these links below!
10 Best Local Serums in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
10 Best Serums for Dry Skin in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
10 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed By A Dermatologist
10 Best Retinol Serums in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
Editor: J. Cuizon
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: Dermorepubliq|5% Niacinamide + Hyaluronic Acid for Sensitive Skin Formula
No. 2: Good Molecules|Niacinamide Serum
No. 3: Klued|5% Niacinamide Serum
No. 4: Luxe Organix|Whitening Repair Ultralight Glow Serum
No. 5: AXIS-Y|Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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