120h Hydration & Niacinamide Serum
120h Hydration & Niacinamide Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, fragrance-free hydrating serum powered by 5% Niacinamide and an innovative PhytoMoisture complex from rice and red algae extract. Builds a 120-hour moisture reservoir in the skin after 28 days of consistent use, while strengthening the barrier, evening skin tone, and reducing redness.
PhytoMoisture Complex
Innovative blend of amylopectin from upcycled rice bran and calcium carbonate from sustainably cultivated Atlantic red algae builds a 120-hour moisture reservoir in the skin after 28 days.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPhytoMoisture Complex
Innovative blend of amylopectin from upcycled rice bran and calcium carbonate from sustainably cultivated Atlantic red algae builds a 120-hour moisture reservoir in the skin after 28 days.
Barrier Strengthening
5% Niacinamide increases ceramide synthesis, reinforcing the skin barrier to lock in hydration and protect against environmental stressors.
Blue Beauty Principles
Formulated with upcycled ingredients (broken rice), microplastic-free, and housed in recyclable packaging to protect waterways and marine ecosystems.
Complexion Perfecting
Niacinamide and grape fruit extract work together to reduce redness, fade hyperpigmentation, minimize pores, and regulate sebum production for a smoother, more even skin tone.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Always consult your doctor for personal advice.
Free from ferments, fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, and oils that feed Malassezia yeast. Confirmed fungal acne safe by SkinSort ingredient analysis.
Oil-free, silicone-free formula with no known pore-clogging ingredients. Extremely unlikely to cause breakouts or clog pores.
Fragrance-free, EU-allergen-free, dermatologically tested. Minimal ingredient list of only 18 components reduces risk of irritation.
Contains no oxybenzone, octinoxate, or other chemical UV filters harmful to coral reefs and marine life.
Can be safely layered with retinol and vitamin C products. Niacinamide is stable and well-tolerated alongside most actives. No special waiting time required between applications.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSNiacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~5%Proven
A multi-functional superstar ingredient that strengthens the skin barrier by boosting ceramide production, regulates oil, reduces pore appearance, fades dark spots, and improves fine lines. Well-tolerated even by sensitive skin.
- Barrier repair: Increases ceramide synthesis for stronger, healthier skin at concentrations as low as 2%.
- Anti-blemish: 4-6% concentration proven effective for acne and sebum regulation.
- Brightening: Inhibits melanosome transfer to reduce hyperpigmentation and dark spots.
- Anti-aging: Reduces fine lines and boosts collagen production with regular use over 6+ weeks.
Glycerin ~4%Proven
A naturally occurring humectant also found in human skin. Draws moisture from the environment into the upper skin layers and helps maintain the skin barrier in a healthy liquid crystal state.
- Hydration: A 2016 study found glycerin more effective as a humectant than AHAs and hyaluronic acid.
- Barrier support: Effective from 3% concentration, with added benefits for dry skin at higher levels.
- Antimicrobial: Has antimicrobial and antiviral properties, commonly used in wound care.
Amylopectin (Rice Starch) ~2%Promising
Derived from upcycled broken rice bran. Part of the proprietary PhytoMoisture complex that helps build a long-lasting moisture reservoir in the skin over 28 days of use.
- Moisture depot: Works with algae extract to create a 120-hour hydration buffer in the skin.
- Sustainability: Sourced from rice bran that would otherwise be discarded as waste (upcycled ingredient).
Lithothamnion Calcareum (Red Algae) Extract ~1.5%Promising
A mineral-rich extract from sustainably cultivated Atlantic red algae. Rich in calcium carbonate and trace minerals, it supports skin hydration and works synergistically with amylopectin in the PhytoMoisture complex.
- Mineral-rich: Provides natural calcium carbonate and over 30 trace minerals to nourish the skin.
- Hydration: Helps attract and retain water in the upper skin layers.
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Extract ~1%Proven
A soothing plant extract with antioxidant properties. Helps calm irritation, regulates the skin, and provides protective benefits against environmental free radicals.
- Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals to help prevent premature aging.
- Soothing: Calms and regulates stressed, reactive skin.
Diglycerin ~3%Proven
The larger molecular sibling of glycerin. Reduces water evaporation from the skin surface and provides longer-lasting moisture with a less sticky, more elegant skin feel than standard glycerin.
- Extended hydration: Slower penetration than glycerin means longer-lasting surface moisture.
- Skin feel: Better cosmetic elegance with reduced stickiness compared to glycerin alone.
18 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Niacinamide, Glycerin, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Diglycerin, Amylopectin, Lithothamnion Calcareum Extract, Butylene Glycol, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Extract, Acacia Senegal Gum, Xanthan Gum, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Pentylene Glycol, Lactic Acid, Citric Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse in the evening as a standalone serum, or mix 2–3 drops into your moisturizer morning and evening. Apply after cleansing and toning, before heavier creams.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with clean, dry or slightly damp skin. Use your regular gentle cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, and impurities.
Apply 2–3 Drops
Dispense 2–3 drops onto your fingertips. In the evening, apply directly to the face. In the morning, mix drops into your moisturizer before applying.
Gently Massage In
Press and pat the serum into the skin using gentle upward motions. Focus on areas with enlarged pores, dark spots, or uneven texture.
Follow with Moisturizer
Allow 30 seconds for absorption, then seal in hydration with your favorite moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with sunscreen SPF 30+.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a gentle, fragrance-free hydrating serum
- You struggle with dehydrated, dull, or uneven skin
- You have enlarged pores or oily/combination skin
- You need a pregnancy-safe or fungal acne-safe option
- You prefer clean, vegan, and sustainably made products
- You want a minimalist formula with only 18 ingredients
- You are looking for a gentle niacinamide serum (5%) without irritation
Consider alternatives if:
- You need a high-concentration niacinamide serum (10%+)
- You prefer a richer, cream-based hydration formula
- You want a larger bottle size (this is only 20 ml)
- You need a serum with hyaluronic acid as the main humectant
- You are looking for a potent anti-aging treatment with retinol or peptides
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight, oil-free formula absorbs quickly without adding shine. Niacinamide helps regulate sebum production and minimize pore appearance.
Glycerin and diglycerin provide solid hydration, but very dry skin may need a richer moisturizer layered on top for complete comfort.
Balances well across different face zones. Hydrates dry cheeks without adding excess oil to the T-zone. Ideal for combo skin concerns.
Fragrance-free, allergen-free, dermatologically tested with only 18 gentle ingredients. 5% niacinamide is gentle enough for reactive skin.
Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe, oil-free formula. Niacinamide actively fights blemishes, reduces post-acne marks, and regulates oil.
Results timeline
6–8 WEEKSImmediate Hydration Boost
Skin feels softer, smoother, and more hydrated after each application. The lightweight texture absorbs quickly and leaves a comfortable, non-greasy finish.
85% noticed improved skin feelSkin Tone Begins to Even Out
Redness starts to diminish. Skin texture becomes smoother and pores appear less visible. The PhytoMoisture complex begins building the 120-hour moisture depot.
70% noticed reduced redness120h Moisture Depot Established
Full hydration buffer is built. Skin retains moisture for up to 120 hours (5 days). Dark spots and acne marks visibly begin fading. Complexion looks more balanced and radiant.
75% noticed brighter, more even skinVisible Anti-Aging & Clarity Benefits
Fine lines appear softened as niacinamide boosts collagen production in deeper skin layers. Pores are noticeably refined and overall skin clarity is significantly improved.
65% noticed fewer fine linesRatings by platform
3K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Clinically effective 5% niacinamide at the optimal gentle concentration
- Innovative PhytoMoisture complex builds a 120-hour moisture depot
- Minimal, clean formula with only 18 ingredients
- Fragrance-free, fungal acne safe, pregnancy safe
- Lightweight, non-sticky texture absorbs quickly
- Sustainably made with upcycled ingredients (Blue Beauty)
- Noticeable improvement in skin tone, redness, and hydration
- Dermatologically tested, very well tolerated
Criticized
- Small bottle size (20 ml) — runs out quickly with daily use
- Higher price per ml compared to competitors like The Ordinary
- Some users report mild tingling on first application
- Limited international availability outside EU
- Only 5% niacinamide — some prefer higher concentrations
- Dropper packaging less hygienic than airless pump
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Higher niacinamide concentration (10%) with added zinc for oil control. Bigger bottle (30 ml) at a fraction of the price. Lacks the PhytoMoisture hydration complex. Can feel sticky and may irritate sensitive skin.
Simple 10% niacinamide formula with hyaluronic acid. Thicker texture than the Nø serum. Good hydration but lacks the unique rice-algae PhytoMoisture complex and grape extract soothing benefits.
Contains 10% niacinamide plus ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Larger bottle (30 ml). More complex formula with 30+ ingredients. Not fungal acne safe and contains dimethicone (silicone).
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place. Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Glass dropper bottle with recyclable packaging. Made from recycled materials as part of Blue Beauty principles.
Yes — 20 ml is well under the 100 ml carry-on liquid limit. Compact dropper bottle fits easily in any travel bag.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This serum contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or any other ingredients typically flagged during pregnancy. All 18 ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, as with any skincare product, it is always advisable to consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your routine during pregnancy.
Yes. This serum is confirmed fungal acne safe by SkinSort's ingredient analysis. It is free from ferments, fatty acids (like oleic acid), esters, polysorbates, and oils that can feed the Malassezia yeast responsible for fungal acne. The oil-free, silicone-free formula makes it an excellent choice for those prone to pityrosporum folliculitis.
Yes. Niacinamide is highly compatible with all major actives including retinol, vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), AHAs (glycolic acid, lactic acid), and BHAs (salicylic acid). The outdated myth that niacinamide and vitamin C cannot be used together has been debunked by modern research. You can layer this serum with other treatments in the same routine without issue. For sensitive skin, you may want to introduce actives one at a time.
This serum works well for all skin types, but is especially excellent for oily, combination, sensitive, and acne-prone skin. Its lightweight, oil-free, fragrance-free formula absorbs quickly without leaving residue. Dry skin types will also benefit from the hydrating glycerin and PhytoMoisture complex, though they may want to layer a richer moisturizer on top.
You can expect to feel improved hydration and skin softness within the first week. Visible improvements in redness and skin tone typically appear after 2–4 weeks. The signature 120-hour moisture depot is fully established after 28 days of consistent use. Anti-aging benefits like reduced fine lines require at least 6–8 weeks, as changes occur in deeper skin layers.
Apply this serum after cleansing and toning, but before moisturizer and sunscreen. In the evening, apply 2–3 drops directly to the face. In the morning, mix 2–3 drops into your day moisturizer before applying. It sits at step 3 in a typical routine: Cleanser → Toner → This Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM).
This serum has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, meaning it has a very low risk of clogging pores. It is oil-free, silicone-free, and contains no known pore-clogging ingredients. Niacinamide actually helps regulate sebum production and minimize pore appearance, making this serum actively beneficial for those concerned about clogged pores and breakouts.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use the serum within one year for optimal efficacy and freshness. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The 20 ml dropper bottle typically lasts 1–2 months with daily use (2–3 drops per application), so you will easily use it well within the PAO timeframe.
Verdict: The Nø Cosmetics 120h Hydration & Niacinamide Serum is an impressively clean, gentle, and effective hydrating serum from Germany. Its standout feature is the innovative PhytoMoisture complex that builds a 120-hour moisture depot over 28 days — a unique claim backed by rice and algae extract technology. The 5% niacinamide sits at the clinical sweet spot for barrier repair, brightening, and oil regulation without irritation. Fungal acne safe, pregnancy safe, and made with only 18 ingredients, it ticks nearly every box for conscious skincare consumers. The only drawbacks are the small 20 ml bottle size and a slightly higher cost per ml compared to mass-market alternatives. If you value clean formulation, sustainability, and gentle yet effective performance, this serum delivers.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
Anti-Aging from 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Microcrystalline Cellulose
Abrasive, Absorbent, Anticaking Agent, Bulking Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Slip Modifier, Viscosity Increasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Diglycerin
Humectant, Skin Conditioning, Solvent
|
|