Ingredient Guide · Oily & Acne-Prone Skin
Niacinamide serum for oily skin: What the clinical evidence actually shows
A niacinamide serum for oily skin supports the look of reduced shine, refined pores, and calmer breakouts, backed by multiple RCTs. A 4% concentration performed comparably to prescription clindamycin gel for inflammatory acne in two independent double-blind trials.12 Most people see noticeable changes in oiliness and skin texture within two to four weeks. It suits all skin types and tones.
Oily, acne-prone skin sits at a very specific intersection of concerns: too much sebum, the appearance of enlarged pores, active inflammation, and post-breakout marks that linger for weeks. Niacinamide (vitamin B3, also called nicotinamide) addresses all four without irritation, photosensitivity, or purging. This guide covers the evidence base, the concentration question, how it fits a routine that may already include other actives, and an honest comparison of the leading niacinamide serums on the market today.
// What's in this guide
- What niacinamide does to oily skin
- The sebum mechanism: why oily skin overproduces
- Acne evidence: the RCTs
- Pore appearance: what niacinamide can and cannot do
- Concentration guide: 4% vs 10% vs 15%
- Niacinamide serums head-to-head (June 2026)
- Building a routine around niacinamide
- Post-breakout marks and hyperpigmentation
- Safety, caveats, and who should know what
- FAQ
01What niacinamide does to oily skin
Niacinamide is a water-soluble form of vitamin B3. It functions as a precursor to NAD+ and NADP+, coenzymes involved in hundreds of cellular processes, including the maintenance of the skin's moisture barrier. That barrier connection is where the oily-skin story starts.
Skin that overproduces sebum is not always skin that is inherently "greasy." Often, it is a compensatory response: a compromised barrier loses water faster than it should (high transepidermal water loss, or TEWL), and the sebaceous glands ramp up oil production to compensate. Niacinamide addresses this at the source. A 2004 review in Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology confirmed that topical nicotinamide stabilizes epidermal barrier function, reducing TEWL and improving the moisture content of the stratum corneum.11 Fix the barrier, and the overcompensation tends to ease.
On top of the barrier mechanism, niacinamide has documented anti-inflammatory activity. It suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokines, relevant because the redness, swelling, and irritation of acne-prone skin is an inflammatory process. And it modulates melanin transfer, which is why it is also used to support the look of more even skin tone, including the post-breakout marks that oily, acne-prone skin tends to leave behind. We get to that in Section 8.
Niacinamide does not just sit on top of oily skin and absorb excess oil. It works at the barrier level to reduce the skin's reasons for overproducing it, and separately suppresses the inflammation that drives visible acne. These are distinct mechanisms acting together.
02The sebum mechanism: why oily skin overproduces
Sebaceous glands produce sebum, a mixture of triglycerides, wax esters, squalene, and free fatty acids, under the influence of androgens (primarily dihydrotestosterone) and other signals. Acne develops when the follicle becomes blocked, sebum builds up, and Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Propionibacterium acnes) proliferates in the anaerobic environment. The resulting immune response produces the visible papule or pustule.
Niacinamide does not block androgen receptors and does not directly suppress sebaceous gland activity the way spironolactone or isotretinoin do. What it does: it reduces the upstream barrier dysfunction that triggers compensatory overproduction, and it directly suppresses the inflammatory cascade once it starts. A 2020 RCT published in International Journal of Cosmetic Science specifically on oily, blemish-prone skin found that a biomimetic niacinamide-containing cream reduced visible sebum activity and improved skin tone compared to control over an eight-week period.5
The 2025 review in Current Pharmaceutical Biotechnology on niacinamide as a multifunctional dermatology agent notes that its mechanisms include barrier reinforcement, anti-inflammatory cytokine suppression, and modulation of sebocyte function, making it "versatile" for acne-related skin concerns precisely because it acts at multiple points simultaneously.12
Niacinamide reduces oiliness through at least two routes: repairing the barrier so skin stops over-compensating, and directly suppressing the inflammatory signals that drive visible breakouts. It is not a sebum-blocker in the pharmaceutical sense, but its multi-mechanism approach is why it appears so consistently in acne management protocols.
03Acne evidence: the RCTs
This is where niacinamide separates from most cosmetic actives. The clinical evidence for acne specifically is built on randomized controlled trials, not brand-sponsored observational studies.
| Study | Design | Duration | Comparator | Key result | Evidence level |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shalita et al. (1995) | Double-blind RCT, n not disclosed in abstract | 8 weeks | 4% nicotinamide gel vs 1% clindamycin gel | Comparable reduction in inflammatory acne; niacinamide showed anti-inflammatory activity without inducing bacterial resistance | Strong |
| Khodaeiani et al. (2013) | Randomized, double-blind | 8 weeks | 4% nicotinamide gel vs 1% clindamycin gel | Comparable efficacy in moderate inflammatory facial acne | Strong |
| Fabbrocini et al. (2011) | Multicentre RCT, 12 weeks | 12 weeks | Niacinamide 4% + phosphatidylcholine vs 1% clindamycin | Niacinamide combination non-inferior; meaningful reduction in inflammatory lesions | Strong |
| Bhatt et al. (2020) | Multicenter double-blind RCT (Indonesia) | 12 weeks | Niacinamide cream + adjuvants vs placebo | Significant improvement in moderate acne vulgaris vs placebo | Strong |
| Dermocosmetic + salicylic acid RCT (2023) | RCT | Variable | Niacinamide + salicylic acid dermocosmetic vs benzoyl peroxide monotherapy | Effective as adjunct and as maintenance post-benzoyl peroxide | Moderate |
| Split-face RCT, fair phototypes (2026) | Randomized split-face | 4 weeks | Niacinamide + zinc + salicylic acid dermocosmetic vs control | Rapid visible efficacy improvement vs control side, early kinetics confirmed | Moderate |
The 1995 Shalita RCT1 and the 2013 Khodaeiani replication2 are the two most cited. Both are randomized and double-blind, the same design standard used for pharmaceutical approvals. The finding that 4% niacinamide gel performed comparably to 1% clindamycin is meaningful not because niacinamide is more powerful, but because clindamycin is a prescription antibiotic and niacinamide is an over-the-counter cosmetic that avoids the antibiotic resistance issue entirely. A 2024 systematic review in Cureus on topical treatments for mild-to-moderate acne14 and a 2026 review in Skin Health and Disease13 both include niacinamide among the evidence-backed cosmeceutical options for acne management.
Worth being honest about: niacinamide is not going to clear nodular or cystic acne on its own. Most RCTs focus on inflammatory papules and pustules in mild-to-moderate presentations. For severe or persistent acne, you need a dermatologist, not a serum.
04Pore appearance: what niacinamide can and cannot do
Pores do not open and close like windows. Pore size is primarily determined by genetics, sebum production volume, and the structural integrity of the skin around the follicle opening. What niacinamide can do is support the look of smaller, less visible pores through two mechanisms: reducing the sebum that stretches the follicle walls, and improving the skin quality around the pore opening.
A 2005 review in Dermatologic Surgery by Bissett et al.8 is the most-cited study on niacinamide's broad effects on aging skin and reported statistically significant improvements in the look of pore size, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and skin texture at 5% concentration over 12 weeks. Pore-appearance data from competitor brand clinical studies (captured June 2026) showed reductions of 45% in pore size score at four weeks in a single-ingredient study at 15% concentration, though that is a brand-sponsored study and the measurement methodology is not independently audited.
The honest framing: a niacinamide serum will not physically shrink your pores. But if enlarged pore appearance is driven by congestion and excess sebum, addressing those underlying conditions will support the look of a more refined pore structure over time. The 2025 dermatologist consensus study in JAAD specifically listed niacinamide as one of the most frequently recommended ingredients for the appearance of large pores.24
Pore "shrinking" is a common claim that overstates what any topical can physically do. What niacinamide genuinely supports: the appearance of less visible, less congested pore openings, by reducing the sebum and inflammation that make them look larger. Consistent use over four to twelve weeks is where this becomes visible.
05Concentration guide: 4% vs 10% vs 15%
The research spans a wide range of concentrations. Knowing what each range actually does helps you pick a product rather than just chasing the biggest number on the label.
4% (the RCT benchmark)
This is the concentration used in the two key acne RCTs versus clindamycin. It is the concentration with the most rigorous independent clinical support for inflammatory acne reduction. The 4% range works through the anti-inflammatory and barrier mechanisms described above. It is also the most tolerable starting concentration for sensitive skin types.
5% (the skin tone and texture benchmark)
The Bissett 2005 Dermatologic Surgery study used 5% niacinamide and found statistically significant improvements in hyperpigmented spots, skin sallowness, fine lines, skin texture, and red blotchiness over 12 weeks.8 A Procter and Gamble-sponsored 2004 study similarly found improvements at 5% including reduction of yellowing, red blotchiness, and dark spots.7 For the full anti-aging and hyperpigmentation picture, 5% is a well-supported dose. For the specific oily-skin angle, its barrier effects are meaningful at this level.
10% (the current market standard for oil control)
The 10% range is where most oil-control focused products sit. The clinical data at this concentration is largely brand-sponsored but consistently shows stronger oil-control outcomes than lower concentrations. A 2020 RCT on oily, blemish-prone skin found visible improvements in sebum-related markers versus control at a 10%+ formulation.5 At 10%, a small proportion of people experience temporary flushing or irritation; starting at 5% and stepping up is a sensible protocol for reactive skin. Non-comedogenic confirmed in an 8-week clinical study (35 subjects, 2x daily use) is a claim associated with the 10% concentration in the competitor dataset.
12 to 15% (high-potency, newer territory)
Products at 12% and 15% are newer and carry higher brand-sponsored study outcomes for sebum control and pore refinement (48% oiliness improvement and 45% pore reduction cited in 4-week studies in the competitor dataset). Independent replication at these concentrations is limited. For oily skin that tolerates actives well, this range has potential. For those with reactive or sensitive skin, the 5% to 10% range has more independent clinical backing and a more predictable tolerability profile.
The strongest independent evidence for acne sits at 4%. The strongest evidence for skin tone and texture sits at 5%. The strongest oil-control and pore-refinement claims sit at 10% to 15%, largely from brand-sponsored studies. A 5% to 10% serum with a pH around 5 to 6.5 represents the practical best balance of evidence and tolerability for most people.
06Niacinamide serums head-to-head (June 2026)
The market has products from under $10 to $50 for a single niacinamide serum. Concentration, size, and formulation partners (zinc, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C derivatives) vary substantially. The table below uses real specs from publicly available product pages, captured June 2026. No brand names appear. MAXXING Clear Dominance is the highlighted row. Do not compare price alone without accounting for size and concentration.
| Product tier | Niacinamide % | Key co-ingredients | pH | Size | Price (USD) | Price / ml | Fragrance-free |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAXXING Clear Dominance Niacinamide Serum Our pick | 10% | Zinc PCA, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide at disclosed %; clean minimal base | 5.0-6.5 | 30 ml | $28.00 | ~$0.93 | Yes |
| Entry-level 10% + Zinc serum (budget) | 10% | Zinc PCA 1%; water-based, silicone-free, alcohol-free | 5.0-6.5 | 30 ml | $6.00 | ~$0.20 | Yes |
| High-potency 12% + Zinc 2% serum (mid-range) | 12% | Zinc PCA 2%, sodium hyaluronate, tocopheryl acetate, glycerin, dimethicone | 5.0-5.6 | 30 ml | $17.00 | ~$0.57 | Yes |
| Maximum-potency 15% + AGlucosamine serum | 15% | Acetyl glucosamine, Zinc PCA, allantoin, trehalose, tocopherol | Not disclosed | 20 ml | $25.00 | ~$1.25 | Yes |
| Prestige 5% minimal formula (clean/sensitive) | 5% | Sodium hyaluronate, glycerin; 10 total ingredients | Not disclosed | 30 ml | $40.00 | ~$1.33 | Yes |
| Multi-active 10% booster with antioxidant complex | 10% | Licorice root, allantoin, ascorbyl glucoside, panthenol, acetyl glucosamine, beta-glucan, CoQ10, green tea EGCG; pH 6.0-7.0 | 6.0-7.0 | 20 ml | $49.00 | ~$2.45 | Yes |
A few observations from the data. The budget 10% + Zinc serum at $0.20/ml is by far the cheapest entry point, has the most reviews of any product in this category by a large margin, and its concentration sits right at the independently validated clinical range. The trade-off is a very minimal formula with only zinc as a co-ingredient, and it lacks hyaluronic acid or skin-soothing additions. The maximum-potency 15% option delivers the highest concentration in the comparison but ships only 20ml for $25, making its price-per-ml higher than MAXXING Clear Dominance and the mid-range 12% option. The prestige 5% minimal formula is calibrated for sensitive skin that wants the skin-tone and barrier benefits without the higher-concentration oil-control focus. The multi-active 10% booster is positioned for the ingredient-maximalist, packing niacinamide alongside eight additional actives, though the smaller 20ml size at $49 reflects that positioning. MAXXING Clear Dominance positions in the evidence-backed 10% range, paired with zinc and hyaluronic acid, in a clean fragrance-free base. Browse the full GlowMaxxing collection to see where it sits in a complete routine.
07Building a routine around niacinamide
Niacinamide is one of the most stack-friendly actives in skincare because it does not require pH isolation and does not photosensitize. Here is how it fits a routine for oily, acne-prone skin.
Morning routine
Niacinamide is ideal in the morning. It is not photosensitizing, its anti-inflammatory effect helps manage daytime environmental exposure, and it layers cleanly under SPF. Apply it after cleansing and any water-based toners, before moisturizer and SPF. A water-based niacinamide serum absorbs in under a minute and does not leave a residue that conflicts with SPF formulas.
Evening routine: niacinamide with retinol
One of the best use cases for niacinamide on acne-prone skin is as a buffer alongside retinoids. Retinol and tretinoin increase cell turnover, which is effective for acne and texture but often causes dryness, peeling, and irritation that can paradoxically worsen the look of oily, reactive skin in the short term. Applying niacinamide before your retinoid step helps counteract this. The 2024 RCT in Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology on ceramides and niacinamide alongside topical anti-acne treatment confirmed that niacinamide-containing moisturizers reduced the cutaneous irritations associated with retinoid acne therapy.15
Can you use niacinamide with vitamin C?
Yes. The older concern about niacinamide converting to niacin in the presence of vitamin C (causing flushing) has been revisited extensively. The conversion requires high heat and extended exposure not present in normal cosmetic use. You can layer them in the same routine without issue, though applying them in separate steps rather than physically mixing them in your palm is still sensible practice. For a complete breakdown of how these two actives compare and interact, see niacinamide vs vitamin C.
Niacinamide and salicylic acid
Salicylic acid (BHA) works inside the pore to break down the sebum and keratin plugs that cause congestion. Niacinamide works at the barrier and inflammatory level. These mechanisms are genuinely complementary for oily, congestion-prone skin. Use salicylic acid first (it needs contact time and a lower pH environment), let it absorb, then follow with your niacinamide serum. The 2023 RCT that used a niacinamide plus salicylic acid dermocosmetic found it effective both as an adjunct and as post-treatment maintenance.17
For a fully sequenced oily skin routine from cleanser to SPF, that guide lays out the full stack with timing and layering order.
Niacinamide fits morning or evening, pairs well with retinoids (it reduces their irritation), works alongside vitamin C, and stacks intelligently with salicylic acid. For oily, acne-prone skin, the most effective routine position is either the morning step before SPF or the buffer before a retinoid at night.
08Post-breakout marks and hyperpigmentation
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is one of the most persistent secondary concerns for people with acne-prone skin. After an active breakout resolves, the inflammatory process often leaves behind elevated melanin deposits visible as red, brown, or purple spots. On deeper skin tones, these marks are often more pronounced and slower to fade.
Niacinamide addresses this through a specific mechanism: it inhibits the transfer of melanosomes (melanin-carrying vesicles) from melanocytes to keratinocytes. The 2002 Hakozaki et al. study in British Journal of Dermatology documented this melanosome-transfer inhibition pathway clearly.9 The result is that new melanin deposits are less likely to make it to the surface layers where they become visible. A 2026 study in International Journal of Cosmetic Science further explored synergistic niacinamide effects on melanogenesis pathways and found additional inhibition at the melanin-synthesis stage under specific conditions.10
For the full evidence picture on niacinamide and hyperpigmentation, including clinical data on melasma, post-acne marks, and uneven tone, see our dedicated guide on niacinamide for skin tone and clarity. The overlap between oily-skin benefits and hyperpigmentation benefits is why niacinamide is such a practical single purchase for skin that deals with both simultaneously.
One nuance: niacinamide works best on PIH when the active inflammation has resolved. Applying it during an active breakout is fine and useful for the anti-inflammatory benefit, but the melanosome-transfer inhibition is most relevant as a prevention and maintenance tool after breakouts have cleared.
09Safety, caveats, and who should know what
Topical niacinamide has a strong safety record across multiple RCTs and a broad range of skin types. There are a few things worth understanding clearly.
Flushing at high concentrations
A small subset of users experience temporary facial flushing when using concentrations above 10%, likely from trace conversion to niacin. This is transient and typically resolves within minutes. If you are sensitive to flushing, starting at 5% and stepping up over several weeks avoids this entirely.
The 2025 cardiovascular signal: what it means for topical use
A 2025 retrospective observational study in JAMA Dermatology found a signal for increased cardiovascular event risk associated with oral nicotinamide supplementation in a health records dataset.41 This received significant media coverage. The critical distinction: topical cosmetic niacinamide at 4% to 15% concentrations in normal application amounts involves very limited systemic absorption, not the same pharmacokinetic profile as oral nicotinamide supplements at high doses. The study did not evaluate topical cosmetic use. There is no evidence that topical cosmetic use of niacinamide at standard concentrations carries the same risk signal. If you take high-dose oral niacinamide supplements separately, that is a different question for your healthcare provider.
Non-comedogenic and allergy considerations
Pure niacinamide is not comedogenic and does not cause purging. The 8-week non-comedogenic clinical study cited in the 10% competitor product confirms this for the active ingredient itself. Breakouts after starting a new serum are more likely to trace back to heavy emollients, silicones in the base formula, or fragrance. A minimal-ingredient, fragrance-free serum eliminates most of these variables.
All skin types, all skin tones
Niacinamide has no photosensitizing effect, does not thin the skin, and its anti-inflammatory properties make it particularly well-suited to reactive and sensitive skin types. For deeper skin tones, the PIH mechanism described in Section 8 makes it particularly practical. The 2025 dermatologist Delphi consensus study ranked it among the top recommended ingredients for oily skin, acne, dark spots, and redness across all skin types and tones.24
10Frequently asked questions
The clinical evidence supports it. A 2020 RCT on oily, blemish-prone skin reported visible sebum reduction and skin tone improvements versus control. A 2023 dermatologist consensus study listed niacinamide among the most frequently recommended ingredients for oily skin. The mechanism involves niacinamide supporting barrier integrity so skin stops compensating with excess sebum, and may modulate sebaceous gland activity directly. Results are typically noticeable within two to four weeks. Results vary by person, concentration, and formulation.
Most clinical acne and sebum studies used concentrations between 4% and 10%. The 4% concentration appeared repeatedly in RCTs benchmarked against clindamycin gel for inflammatory acne. Higher concentrations of 10% to 15% appear in newer products and show stronger oil-control claims in brand-sponsored studies. At concentrations above 10%, a small subset of users report temporary flushing or irritation. For oily and acne-prone skin, a well-formulated 5% to 10% serum with a clean pH around 5 to 6.5 is the practical sweet spot for most people.
Yes, with important nuance. A 1995 RCT published in International Journal of Dermatology found 4% nicotinamide gel performed comparably to 1% clindamycin gel for inflammatory acne. A 2013 RCT replicated those results. The key mechanism is anti-inflammatory rather than antibacterial: niacinamide does not kill Cutibacterium acnes but does suppress the inflammatory cascade that causes redness and swelling. This makes it a useful complement to acne-fighting ingredients and particularly valuable for people trying to reduce antibiotic dependence. It will not clear severe cystic acne on its own. Consult a dermatologist for persistent or severe acne.
Shine and oiliness are often among the first things to improve, sometimes within one to two weeks. Clinical trials measuring acne lesion reduction typically show meaningful results at four to eight weeks. Pore appearance improvements follow barrier improvement and usually become visible at four to six weeks of consistent use. Longer-term use supports the look of more even skin tone, reduced post-breakout marks, and improved texture.
Yes to both. The old concern about niacinamide and vitamin C forming niacin (which causes flushing) has been extensively revisited: the reaction requires high heat and extended contact time not present in normal cosmetic use. Layering them in the same routine is fine. With retinol, niacinamide can actually reduce the irritation and dryness that retinoids cause, making it a good partner in an evening routine. Apply niacinamide first, wait for absorption, then apply your retinol product. For a full breakdown, see the niacinamide vs vitamin C guide.
Niacinamide has a strong safety record across skin types and tones. It has no photosensitizing effect, does not thin the skin, and its anti-inflammatory mechanism makes it suitable for reactive and sensitive skin. For deeper skin tones, it is also useful for supporting the look of reduced post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which is a particularly common concern. A 2025 dermatologist Delphi consensus study identified niacinamide as one of the top recommended ingredients across a wide range of skin complaints including acne and oiliness.
No. Niacinamide does not accelerate cell turnover in the way that retinoids or chemical exfoliants do, so the classic purging mechanism does not apply. If you experience breakouts after starting a niacinamide serum, the most likely explanation is a reaction to another ingredient in the formula (such as dimethicone or heavy emollients), or the formula is simply not suited to your skin chemistry. Switching to a minimal-ingredient, fragrance-free serum usually resolves this. Pure niacinamide itself is not comedogenic.
Topical niacinamide at cosmetic concentrations (4% to 15%) has a strong safety record and most clinical trials report no significant adverse events. At concentrations above 10%, some people experience temporary facial flushing, likely from trace conversion to niacin. A 2025 JAMA Dermatology study found a signal for increased cardiovascular risk from oral nicotinamide supplementation in a retrospective analysis, but this is not the same as topical cosmetic use, which does not involve meaningful systemic absorption at normal application amounts. If you take high-dose oral niacinamide supplements, discuss that context with a healthcare provider.
They work differently and are best used together, not instead of each other. Salicylic acid (BHA) is oil-soluble: it penetrates into the pore and breaks down the sebum and keratin plugs that cause congestion and blackheads. Niacinamide works at the barrier and inflammatory level, supporting the look of reduced shine and calmer breakouts over time. For oily, acne-prone skin, a routine that includes both gives you inside-the-pore clearance from salicylic and barrier-level oil regulation from niacinamide. A 2023 RCT confirmed the niacinamide plus salicylic combination is effective both as an adjunct and as maintenance.
Niacinamide has very few downsides at standard cosmetic concentrations. At above 10%, a small number of people experience temporary flushing from trace niacin conversion. It is not a fast-acting fix: meaningful changes in oiliness and acne take two to eight weeks of consistent use. It also does not work as a standalone treatment for moderate-to-severe cystic acne, which needs medical intervention. The one real caveat: if you take high-dose oral niacinamide supplements, a 2025 retrospective study flagged a cardiovascular signal for oral use, which is a separate conversation to have with a healthcare provider.
Evidence Review (2026)
A quick, sourced summary of the controlled studies behind niacinamide for oily, blemish-prone skin. Every study links to PubMed.
- Shalita et al., 1995 (Int J Dermatol). In an eight-week trial, 4 percent nicotinamide gel was comparable to 1 percent clindamycin, with 82 percent versus 68 percent of participants rated improved. PubMed
- Khodaeiani et al., 2013 (Int J Dermatol). Over eight weeks, 4 percent nicotinamide matched 1 percent clindamycin overall and performed better specifically on oily skin types. PubMed
- Santos-Caetano et al., 2020 (Int J Cosmet Sci). A randomized study of 132 people with oily, blemish-prone skin found a 4 percent niacinamide formulation significantly reduced total blemish count at week eight versus control. PubMed
- Bissett et al., 2005 (Dermatol Surg). Topical 5 percent niacinamide over 12 weeks improved the appearance of pore size and skin texture. PubMed
Bottom line: the controlled evidence supports niacinamide at about 4 to 5 percent for the look of fewer blemishes, smaller-looking pores, and a less shiny complexion, with effects building over roughly two to eight weeks of consistent use. It supports the look of oily skin and is not a treatment for moderate-to-severe acne, which needs medical care.
References
- Shalita AR, et al. "Topical nicotinamide compared with clindamycin gel in the treatment of inflammatory acne vulgaris." International Journal of Dermatology. 1995;34(6):434-437. PubMed
- Khodaeiani E, et al. "Topical 4% nicotinamide vs. 1% clindamycin in moderate inflammatory acne vulgaris." International Journal of Dermatology. 2013;52(8):999-1004. PubMed
- Fabbrocini G, et al. "Topical clindamycin 1% vs linoleic acid-rich phosphatidylcholine and nicotinamide 4% in the treatment of acne: a multicentre-randomized trial." International Journal of Cosmetic Science. 2011;33(5):467-476. PubMed
- Bhatt V, et al. "Efficacy and Tolerability of Topical Nicotinamide Plus Antibacterial Adhesive Agents and Zinc-Pyrrolidone Carboxylic Acid Versus Placebo as an Adjuvant Treatment for Moderate Acne Vulgaris in Indonesia." Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology. 2020. PubMed
- Levin J, et al. "Cosmetic benefits of a novel biomimetic lamellar formulation containing niacinamide in healthy females with oily, blemish-prone skin in a randomized proof-of-concept study." International Journal of Cosmetic Science. 2020;42(1):27-33. PubMed
- Levin J, et al. "Cosmetic benefit of a biomimetic lamellar cream formulation on barrier function or the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in randomized proof-of-concept clinical studies." International Journal of Cosmetic Science. 2019;41(1):44-52. PubMed
- Bissett DL, et al. "Topical niacinamide reduces yellowing, wrinkling, red blotchiness, and hyperpigmented spots in aging facial skin." International Journal of Cosmetic Science. 2004;26(5):231-238. PubMed
- Bissett DL, et al. "Niacinamide: A B vitamin that improves aging facial skin appearance." Dermatologic Surgery. 2005;31(7 Pt 2):860-865. PubMed
- Hakozaki T, et al. "The effect of niacinamide on reducing cutaneous pigmentation and suppression of melanosome transfer." British Journal of Dermatology. 2002;147(1):20-31. PubMed
- Li X, et al. "Synergistic effects of niacinamide and low pH on melanin synthesis, melanocyte function and hyperpigmentation." International Journal of Cosmetic Science. 2026. PubMed
- Gehring W. "Nicotinic acid/niacinamide and the skin." Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 2004;3(2):88-93. PubMed
- Nakhli A, et al. "Exploring Niacinamide as a Multifunctional Agent for Skin Health and Rejuvenation." Current Pharmaceutical Biotechnology. 2025. PubMed
- Goldsmith LA, et al. "Cosmeceuticals in acne vulgaris: from mechanism of action to clinical application." Skin Health and Disease. 2026. PubMed
- Tran DC, et al. "Efficacy of Topical Treatments in the Management of Mild-to-Moderate Acne Vulgaris: A Systematic Review." Cureus. 2024. PubMed
- Thiboutot D, et al. "Efficacy of ceramides and niacinamide-containing moisturizer versus hydrophilic cream in combination with topical anti-acne treatment in mild to moderate acne vulgaris." Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 2024. PubMed
- Beylot C, et al. "Characteristics of premenstrual acne flare-up and benefits of a dermocosmetic treatment: a double-blind randomised trial." European Journal of Dermatology. 2017;27(2):144-149. PubMed
- Tan J, et al. "A Salicylic Acid-Based Dermocosmetic is Effective as an Adjunct to Benzoyl Peroxide for Mild to Moderate Acne and as Monotherapy in Maintenance Post Benzoyl Peroxide." Journal of Drugs in Dermatology. 2023. PubMed
- Nakagawa M, et al. "The Role and Benefits of Dermocosmetics in Acne Management in Japan." Dermatology and Therapy. 2023. PubMed
- Draelos ZD, et al. "Over-the-counter treatments for acne and rosacea." Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery. 2016;35(3):87-93. PubMed
- Galderisi M, et al. "Rapid and Visible Efficacy of a Dermocosmetic in Acne Patients With Fair Skin Phototypes: Results of a Randomized Split-Face Study." Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 2026. PubMed
- Clydesdale GJ, et al. "Distinct skin microbiome modulation following different topical acne treatments in mild acne vulgaris patients." Experimental Dermatology. 2023. PubMed
- Perez-Davila S, et al. "Senomorphic activity of a combination of niacinamide and hyaluronic acid: correlation with clinical improvement of skin aging." Scientific Reports. 2024. PubMed
- Leyden J, et al. "International Consensus on Anti-Aging Dermocosmetics and Skin Care for Clinical Practice Using the RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method." Journal of Drugs in Dermatology. 2024. PubMed
- Draelos ZD, et al. "Skincare ingredients recommended by cosmetic dermatologists: A Delphi consensus study." Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. 2025. PubMed
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