100% Niacinamide Powder
100% Niacinamide Powder
Product Description
Product overview
An ultra-fine 100% pure niacinamide (Vitamin B3) powder that offers customizable concentration for targeting visible shine, enlarged pores, and irregular skin texture. Mix with your favorite water-based serums or moisturizers for a personalized DIY skincare experience.
Customizable Concentration
Mix with water-based products to create your ideal niacinamide strength (approx. 10-15% with ¼ scoop + 4 drops).
Texture & feel
SENSORYCustomizable Concentration
Mix with water-based products to create your ideal niacinamide strength (approx. 10-15% with ¼ scoop + 4 drops).
Targets Textural Irregularities
Promotes a brighter, more radiant complexion by smoothing skin texture and minimizing the appearance of pores.
Sebum Regulation
Helps mattify skin and minimize visible oil production for a balanced, shine-free complexion.
Barrier Support
Supports the skin's natural barrier function by promoting ceramide production and strengthening skin resilience.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENiacinamide (Vitamin B3) is FDA-approved and considered safe for topical use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It's a recommended alternative to retinoids.
Pure niacinamide contains no oils, fatty acids, esters, or fermented ingredients that feed Malassezia yeast. It may even help manage fungal acne symptoms.
Single-ingredient formula with zero comedogenic risk. Contains no pore-clogging oils, silicones, or emollients.
Do not mix with L-Ascorbic Acid or Vitamin C derivatives in the same routine. May cause reduced effectiveness and yellowing/flushing.
Only dissolve in water-based products with pH 5.0-7.0. Do not mix with direct acids (AHAs, BHAs) in the same application.
Can be used alongside retinoids. Research suggests niacinamide may help skin tolerate high-strength retinol. Wait 5 minutes between applications.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSNiacinamide (Vitamin B3) 100%Proven
A water-soluble form of Vitamin B3 that is one of the most well-researched and versatile skincare actives. Converts to NAD+ in the skin, supporting cellular energy and repair processes.
- Sebum Control: Clinical studies show 2-5% niacinamide effectively reduces sebum production and oiliness.
- Pore Appearance: 12-week studies demonstrated visible reduction in enlarged pores with 5% concentration.
- Skin Brightening: Reduces melanosome transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes, fading hyperpigmentation over 8+ weeks.
- Anti-Aging: Improves fine lines, wrinkles, skin elasticity, and reduces yellowing (sallowness) according to clinical trials.
- Barrier Function: Increases ceramide and fatty acid production, strengthening the skin's protective barrier.
1 ingredient
Niacinamide
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEMix powder with a water-based serum or moisturizer before application. Best used AM and/or PM. Avoid direct acid products in the same application.
How to use
HOW TO USEMeasure the Powder
Use approximately ¼ of the provided scoop (about 0.05g) of niacinamide powder.
Choose Your Base
Select a water-based serum, cream, or moisturizer with pH 5.0-7.0. Recommended: Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA, or Matrixyl 10% + HA.
Mix in Palm
Dispense 3-4 drops of your chosen product into your palm. Add the powder and mix with your fingernail or fingertip until fully dissolved (dissolves instantly).
Apply to Face
Gently press and pat the mixture onto cleansed face and neck. Use in the morning and/or evening. Follow with moisturizer if needed.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want customizable niacinamide concentration
- You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin
- You want to reduce visible pores and shine
- You prefer pure, single-ingredient formulas
- You're sensitive to zinc (found in the serum version)
- You want to combine niacinamide with peptide serums
- You enjoy DIY skincare customization
- You're pregnant, breastfeeding, or have fungal acne
Consider alternatives if:
- You prefer ready-to-use products without mixing
- You're new to skincare and want simplicity
- You use Vitamin C products in the same routine
- You only use acidic products (pH below 5.0)
- You want additional benefits like zinc for blemishes
- You need travel-sized convenience
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESRegulates sebum production, mattifies skin, and minimizes shine throughout the day. Ideal choice.
Balances oil in T-zone while supporting barrier function in drier areas. Well-suited for mixed skin needs.
Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe, and helps regulate sebum. No zinc if you're sensitive to it.
Generally well-tolerated. Start with small amounts and build up. Some may experience initial tingling.
Supports barrier function and hydration when mixed with hydrating serums. Add richer moisturizer afterward.
Results timeline
WEEK 12+Instant Glow & Reduced Shine
Immediate mattifying effect and subtle radiance boost. Skin feels smoother to the touch. May experience mild tingling initially.
70% noticed improvementTexture Improvement
Visible smoothing of skin texture. Reduced appearance of blackheads and congestion. T-zone oiliness noticeably decreased.
65% saw texture changesPore Appearance Minimized
Significant reduction in the appearance of enlarged pores. More even skin tone and improved overall clarity.
60% reported smaller-looking poresComprehensive Results
Full benefits including faded dark spots, improved skin elasticity, strengthened barrier, and sustained oil control. Best results with consistent use.
75% saw significant improvementRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- 100% pure, single-ingredient formula
- Customizable concentration - control your dose
- Excellent value - 20g lasts 6-12 months
- Dissolves instantly in water-based products
- No zinc for those who are sensitive
- Can combine with peptide and hydrating serums
- Visibly reduces oiliness and pore appearance
- Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and fungal acne safe
- Instant glow and smoother skin feel
Criticized
- Requires mixing - extra step in routine
- ¼ scoop measurement is imprecise
- Tiny spoon easy to lose
- Can't be used with Vitamin C or direct acids
- Less convenient than ready-to-use serum
- Learning curve for skincare beginners
- Some experience initial tingling
- Not as travel-friendly as liquid products
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESReady-to-use liquid serum with fixed 10% niacinamide plus zinc for extra oil control. More convenient but less customizable. Best for those who prefer simplicity.
10% niacinamide serum with hyaluronic acid. Thicker texture, good hydration. Ready-to-use convenience without mixing required.
10% niacinamide with minimal formula. Lightweight serum texture. Ready-to-use alternative for those wanting simple application.
Premium formula with additional beneficial ingredients like vitamin C and acetyl glucosamine. More complete but significantly pricier.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
STORAGENo PAO limit. Use by expiry date printed on jar and box. Powder remains stable when kept dry.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity. Keep lid tightly closed to prevent moisture absorption.
Glass jar with screw-top lid. Includes small measuring spoon. Keep spoon in box to avoid losing it.
Yes, powder format is TSA-compliant. However, glass jar requires careful packing. Consider decanting for travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is considered safe for topical use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It's FDA-approved and often recommended by dermatologists as a pregnancy-safe alternative to retinoids for addressing acne, hyperpigmentation, and skin barrier concerns. The topical application results in minimal systemic absorption.
Yes, this product is fungal acne safe. Pure niacinamide contains no oils, fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, or fermented ingredients that feed Malassezia yeast. As a water-soluble vitamin, it does not provide a food source for the fungus. Some research suggests niacinamide may even have antimicrobial properties that help manage fungal acne symptoms.
Retinol: Yes! Niacinamide can be used with retinoids. Research suggests it may help skin tolerate high-strength retinol. Apply them separately with a 5-minute wait between.Vitamin C: Do not mix with L-Ascorbic Acid or derivatives in the same routine - may reduce effectiveness and cause flushing/yellowing. Use in separate AM/PM routines.AHA/BHA: Do not dissolve in direct acids. The powder requires pH 5.0-7.0. Use acid exfoliants at a different time.
This powder is excellent for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types due to its sebum-regulating properties. It's also suitable for those with fungal acne, enlarged pores, or textural irregularities. Sensitive skin can benefit by starting with smaller amounts. Dry skin users should mix with hydrating bases and follow with richer moisturizers.
Initial effects like reduced shine and a subtle glow can be noticed within 1-2 weeks. Texture improvements typically appear at 3-4 weeks. Visible pore minimization and more significant brightening generally take 6-8 weeks. Full benefits including faded dark spots and improved elasticity require 12+ weeks of consistent use. Results vary by individual.
Mix the powder with a water-based serum or moisturizer and apply after cleansing and toning, but before heavier treatments and moisturizers. Use in both AM and PM routines if desired. Always follow with sunscreen in the morning. Avoid mixing with Vitamin C products or direct acids in the same application.
No, this product has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. Pure niacinamide contains no oils, silicones, waxes, or pore-clogging ingredients. It's a single-ingredient, water-soluble powder that is completely non-comedogenic. In fact, niacinamide helps regulate sebum and may actually help minimize the appearance of pores over time.
There is no specific PAO (Period After Opening) for this powder. Use by the expiry date printed on the jar and packaging. Since it's a dry powder with no water content, it remains stable for a long time when stored properly. Keep the lid tightly closed and store in a cool, dry place away from moisture and humidity. The 20g jar typically lasts 6-12 months with regular use.
Verdict: The Ordinary 100% Niacinamide Powder is an innovative, highly affordable option for skincare enthusiasts who want complete control over their niacinamide dosage. At just $6.40 for a 20g jar that lasts 6-12 months, the value is exceptional. It's perfect for those sensitive to zinc, pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, those with fungal acne, and anyone who enjoys customizing their routine. However, the mixing requirement adds an extra step that may not suit everyone. If you prefer convenience, the ready-to-use Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% serum is the better choice. For DIY skincare lovers and those who want to boost their existing peptide or hydrating serums with pure niacinamide, this powder is a standout performer.
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Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|







