Post-acne marks and visibly enlarged pores remain two of the most common reasons people add a treatment serum to their routine. Niacinamide has become a widely used ingredient for addressing both concerns, with concentrations typically ranging from 10% to 12% in accessible over-the-counter formulas.
How we choose
This roundup highlights eight distinct niacinamide serums, spanning from budget-friendly single-ingredient options to multitasking hybrids and soothing gel formats. Each product offers a different approach to texture, tone, and hydration—so you can identify which formula aligns with your skin's needs and your existing regimen.
Our 8 Picks
The OrdinaryNiacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Smoothing Serum for Blemish-Prone Skin
What it is
A lightweight water-based serum with 10% niacinamide and 1% zinc PCA made to smooth skin texture and address blemish-prone skin.
Why it's worth it
The 10% niacinamide works alongside zinc PCA to target excess oil and the look of visible pores. The brand states the formula can improve skin radiance in one week and help minimize pore appearance with continued use. A good fit for those seeking a straightforward, budget-friendly option to introduce a high-strength niacinamide step into a daily routine.
Caveat
The high 10% niacinamide concentration may cause tingling or sensitivity in those new to this ingredient; a patch test is advised.
NaturiumNiacinamide Face Serum 12% Plus Zinc 2%, Anti-Aging, Pore Minimizer & Dark Spot Corrector with Hyaluronic Acid & Vitamin E, Vegan & Cruelty-Free, 1 oz
What it is
A 12% niacinamide face serum with 2% zinc PCA, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E for minimizing pores and correcting dark spots.
Why it's worth it
The higher 12% niacinamide concentration is balanced with zinc PCA to help regulate sebum and refine skin texture. Hyaluronic acid delivers hydration while vitamin E provides antioxidant support. This serum is well suited to those with post-acne discoloration who want a formula that targets both dark spots and pore size without the addition of fragrance.
Caveat
The brand recommends a patch test before use; those with very sensitive skin may need to build tolerance gradually.
Paula's ChoiceBOOST 10% Niacinamide Face Serum Booster, Facial Serum with Vitamin B3, Vitamin C & Licorice Extract Serum, Pore Minimizer, All Skin Types, Fragrance-Free, 0.67oz | Facial Serum with Vitamin B3, Vitamin C & Licorice Extract, Pore Minimizer for All Skin Types, Fragrance-Free
What it is
A concentrated 10% niacinamide booster serum that can be used alone or mixed with a moisturizer to target enlarged pores and uneven skin tone.
Why it's worth it
The formula combines niacinamide with vitamin C and licorice extract to brighten and even skin tone while visually refining pore size. Its mix-in design lets users add it to their existing moisturizer for customizable use, making it straightforward to incorporate into both morning and evening routines. The brand states it is suitable for all skin types and is fragrance-free, which is a practical choice for those who layer multiple steps.
Caveat
The 0.67oz size is smaller than many stand-alone serums, so it may not suit those who prefer a full-size dedicated serum.
Good MoleculesNiacinamide Serum 10%, Pore & Texture Serum, 1 fl oz | 10% niacinamide serum to refine skin texture and minimize the look of pores. Non-comedogenic.
What it is
A 10% niacinamide serum designed to refine skin texture and improve the appearance of enlarged pores.
Why it's worth it
At a balanced 10% concentration, this formula focuses on visible texture refinement without the zinc component found in many competing serums, making it a streamlined option for those who prefer a minimalist ingredient list. The brand states it is non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and suitable for all skin types, so it layers well under moisturizer or makeup. It is a practical, low-cost entry point for anyone who wants to target pore size and uneven skin texture with a straightforward niacinamide serum.
Caveat
It does not contain zinc PCA, so those specifically seeking oil-regulating benefits may want a formula that pairs both ingredients.
The INKEY List10% Niacinamide Serum, Lightweight Oil Control Serum Helps with Blemishes and Appearance of Redness, Hydrating 1% Hyaluronic Acid 30ml | 10% Niacinamide with 1% Hyaluronic Acid Helps Balance Excess Oil, Reduce Blemishes and Soothe Visible Redness
What it is
A lightweight 10% niacinamide serum combined with 1% hyaluronic acid to help balance excess oil, reduce the look of blemishes, and soothe visible redness.
Why it's worth it
The inclusion of 1% hyaluronic acid provides hydration alongside niacinamide’s oil-balancing effect, which can help offset the dryness some experience with high-strength niacinamide serums. The brand describes it as lightweight and easy to layer, making it a good fit for someone building a multi-step routine who wants to manage shine and post-blemish marks without adding weight or tackiness. Its simple ingredient focus suits those who prefer to pair niacinamide with a hydrator rather than zinc.
Caveat
The 30ml (1 fl oz) size may run out quickly for those who use it twice daily over the full face.
Glow RecipeWatermelon Niacinamide Dew Drops - Brightening, Plumping Hydrating Face Serum, Makeup Primer + Liquid Highlighter with Hyaluronic Acid - Dewy & Glowing Korean Skin Care (80ml)
What it is
A hybrid niacinamide brightening serum, makeup primer, and liquid highlighter that combines watermelon extract with hyaluronic acid for a dewy, plumping finish.
Why it's worth it
The formula uses niacinamide and watermelon-derived amino acids to smooth and even skin tone while hyaluronic acid delivers plumping hydration. Its built-in glow makes it well suited to daytime wear or as a prep step under foundation for those who want a radiant finish without adding a separate highlighter. The 80ml full-size bottle offers a larger volume than many serums, which can be a value-driven advantage for those who use it daily.
Caveat
Its multitasking nature as a primer and highlighter means the dewy finish may not appeal to those who prefer a completely matte or invisible serum layer.
Eva NaturalsNiacinamide 12% + Zinc Serum for Face – Dark Spot Remover, Pore Minimizer, Redness Relief, Hydrating Vitamin B3 with Botanical Hyaluronic Acid, Anti-Aging Serum for Clear Skin (2 Pack)
What it is
A 12% niacinamide serum with 2% zinc PCA and a botanical alternative to hyaluronic acid for dark spots, pore minimization, and redness relief.
Why it's worth it
The brand pairs 12% niacinamide with zinc PCA to target oiliness and the look of pores, while cassia angustifolia seed polysaccharide provides a plant-derived hydration alternative to standard hyaluronic acid. This 2-pack format can be a practical choice for anyone who uses niacinamide consistently and wants to minimize repurchasing. The formula’s focus on redness relief and fading post-acne marks makes it suitable for those dealing with persistent post-inflammatory discoloration.
Caveat
The 2-pack supply may not be ideal for those who prefer to trial a single bottle before committing to a larger quantity.
OxygenCeuticalsPhyto Gel – Brightening & Soothing Gel Serum with Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Centella & Mulberry Root Extracts, Functional Radiance Suitable for Sensitive Skin. 1 fl.oz (30ml)
What it is
A brightening gel serum with niacinamide, sodium hyaluronate, centella, and mulberry root extract, designed as a functional radiance treatment suitable for sensitive skin.
Why it's worth it
Niacinamide works alongside centella and mulberry root extracts to calm visible irritation while targeting the look of dark spots and uneven tone, making this a well-rounded option for sensitive skin that still needs brightening. The gel texture is distinct from the typical water-based or emulsion niacinamide serums, offering a soothing, cooling feel during application. A good fit for those who find niacinamide serums transiently drying and prefer a formula with added botanical soothing agents.
Caveat
The 1 fl oz size and premium price point place it at the higher end of this category, so it may not suit those seeking a budget-friendly daily serum.
How to choose
How to choose the right niacinamide serums for reducing acne marks and enlarged pores
Takeaway
The right niacinamide serum depends on whether your primary concern is oil regulation, post-acne discoloration, texture refinement, or sensitivity management. With concentrations, pairings, formats, and prices that diverge meaningfully across these eight options, matching your specific skin behavior to the formula's design matters more than seeking any single universal recommendation.
