Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is a well-tolerated ingredient known for helping refine pores, improve skin texture, and support an even tone. The eight serums below are formulated with varying strengths and complementary ingredients to address common concerns like oiliness, blemishes, and dullness.
How we choose
Because niacinamide works well alongside many other actives, these serums range from simple single-ingredient formulas to multi-tasking blends. When choosing, consider your skin type, any sensitivities, and the specific results you’re looking for—whether that’s oil control, brightening, or smoothing texture.
Our 8 Picks
Good Molecules Niacinamide Serum - 10% Niacinamide to Target Blemishes, Nourishment, and Skin Tone - Ultra Hydrating Serum and Brightening Skin Care for Face
What it is
A 10% niacinamide serum formulated to target blemishes, nourishment, and uneven skin tone.
Why it's worth it
Best for oily and combination skin types seeking an affordable, straightforward option to refine pores and even skin tone. Its lightweight texture makes it easy to layer without feeling heavy.
Caveat
May be too strong for very dry or reactive skin; a lower percentage could be gentler.
Naturium Niacinamide Face Serum 12% Plus Zinc 2%, Anti-Aging, Pore Minimizer and Dark Spot Corrector with Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin E, Vegan and Cruelty-Free, 1 oz
What it is
A serum with 12% niacinamide and 2% zinc, plus hyaluronic acid and vitamin E for anti-aging, pore minimization, and dark spot correction.
Why it's worth it
Best for oily or combination skin that wants a higher-strength niacinamide paired with zinc for oil control. The added hyaluronic acid and vitamin E help soften the formula, making it more comfortable for daily use.
Caveat
The high niacinamide concentration may cause irritation in sensitive skin; introduce gradually.
The INKEY List 10% Niacinamide Serum, Lightweight Oil Control Serum Helps with Blemishes and Appearance of Redness, Hydrating 1% Hyaluronic Acid 30ml, 1 fl oz
What it is
A lightweight 10% niacinamide serum with 1% hyaluronic acid, designed to control oil and reduce the appearance of redness and blemishes.
Why it's worth it
Best for combination skin that needs oil control without stripping moisture. The hyaluronic acid provides lightweight hydration, making it suitable under moisturizer or makeup.
Caveat
Still an active serum; pairing with a bland moisturizer can help prevent tightness or dryness.
Olay Super Serum - Glow Serum for Face - Activated Niacinamide, Vitamin C and E, Collagen Peptide, AHA - 5-in-1 Benefits - Brightens, Hydrates, Smooths, Firms, Evens Tone, Proactive Anti-Aging, 1.0 Oz
What it is
A 5-in-1 serum with activated niacinamide, vitamin C, vitamin E, collagen peptide, and AHA for brightening, hydrating, smoothing, firming, and evening tone.
Why it's worth it
Best for those who want multiple benefits—pore refinement, texture improvement, and a glow—from a single serum. The combination of actives targets several concerns at once.
Caveat
Multiple active ingredients may not suit very sensitive skin or routines already using strong exfoliants.
CeraVe Anti Aging Retinol Serum For Face, Encapsulated Retinol With Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide and Ceramides, Smooths Wrinkles and Fine Lines, Gentle Skin Brightening Serum, Fragrance Free, 1 Oz
What it is
A fragrance-free serum with encapsulated retinol, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and ceramides for smoothing wrinkles and fine lines.
Why it's worth it
Best for those looking to combine retinol’s texture-refining effects with niacinamide’s soothing benefits. The ceramides help support the skin barrier during retinol use.
Caveat
Retinol requires gradual introduction and daily sunscreen use to avoid irritation and sun sensitivity.
Naturium Azelaic Topical Acid 10%, Face and Skin Care Beauty Treatment with Niacinamide and Vitamin C, 1 oz
What it is
An azelaic acid (10%) face treatment with niacinamide and vitamin C for improving skin tone and texture.
Why it's worth it
Best for those dealing with redness, post-blemish marks, and uneven texture. The blend of azelaic acid and niacinamide provides a more targeted approach for blemish-prone skin than a standard brightening serum.
Caveat
Azelaic acid can cause tingling; patch test and start with every-other-day application.
Olay Niacinamide + Peptide 24 Anti-Wrinkle Serum, Fragrance-Free, 1.3oz FL
What it is
A fragrance-free serum with niacinamide and peptides for hydration, barrier support, and anti-wrinkle benefits.
Why it's worth it
Best for those wanting pore and texture refinement with a focus on skin firmness and barrier strength. The peptides give it a more premium, multi-tasking feel suitable for morning or night use.
Caveat
More oriented toward barrier and firmness than treating active blemishes or blackheads.
La Roche-Posay Effaclar 1.5% Salicylic Acid Serum, Acne Treatment For Face With Glycolic Acid and Niacinamide, Acne Serum Helps Clear Blackheads, Whiteheads, Pimples and Reduces Post Acne Marks
What it is
An acne treatment serum with 1.5% salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and niacinamide to clear blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples and reduce post-acne marks.
Why it's worth it
Best for oily, blemish-prone skin with clogged pores and rough texture. The combination of exfoliating acids and niacinamide provides a clinical approach to clearing congestion.
Caveat
Can be drying or sensitizing; use with a moisturizer and daily SPF, and avoid using with other strong actives.
How to choose
How to choose the right niacinamide serums for pores and texture in 2026
Takeaway
Niacinamide serums are versatile additions to most skincare routines, helping with pores, texture, and overall clarity. The best option for you depends on your skin type and whether you want additional benefits like oil control, brightening, or anti-aging.
