5% Niacinamide Face Serum With Rice Water
5% Niacinamide Face Serum With Rice Water
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, beginner-friendly face serum with 5% Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Rice Water, and a complex of 17 amino acids that works to brighten skin, fade blemishes, and strengthen the skin barrier while keeping skin hydrated and smooth.
Brightens & Evens Skin Tone
5% Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) helps fade dark spots, blemishes, and post-acne marks for a visibly more radiant complexion.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBrightens & Evens Skin Tone
5% Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) helps fade dark spots, blemishes, and post-acne marks for a visibly more radiant complexion.
Rice Water Smoothing
Rice extract and hydrolyzed rice protein rich in amino acids and antioxidants visibly improve skin texture and tone.
17 Amino Acid Complex
A blend of 17 amino acids (including 8 essential ones) strengthens the skin barrier and enhances hydration and firmness.
Beginner-Friendly Formula
Gentle 5% concentration makes it ideal for those new to active skincare, with minimal risk of irritation.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree of retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and chemical sunscreens. Contains only a trace amount of lactic acid (as pH adjuster) well below active concentration.
Free of ferments, fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, and oils that feed malassezia yeast. Water-based formula is safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
Oil-free, silicone-free water-based serum with no known pore-clogging ingredients. Suitable for acne-prone skin.
PETA certified. No animal-derived ingredients and no animal testing at any stage of production.
Niacinamide at 5% pairs well with hyaluronic acid, retinol, AHAs, BHAs, and vitamin C. Avoid layering with pure vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) at the same time to prevent reduced efficacy.
While niacinamide is not photosensitizing, daily sunscreen is recommended to protect brightened skin and prevent new dark spots.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSNiacinamide (Vitamin B3) 5%Proven
A water-soluble form of Vitamin B3 that brightens skin, fades blemishes, regulates sebum production, minimizes pores, and strengthens the skin barrier. The 5% concentration is clinically effective yet gentle enough for sensitive and beginner skin.
- Clinical evidence: Studies show 5% niacinamide improves skin barrier function, reduces hyperpigmentation, and decreases sebum production within 4-8 weeks.
- Mechanism: Converts to NAD+ in skin cells, supporting cellular energy production, DNA repair, and ceramide synthesis.
- Dermatologic Surgery (2005): Demonstrated visible improvements in fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and skin elasticity.
Oryza Sativa (Rice) ExtractPromising
Rice water is a centuries-old beauty ingredient rich in amino acids, vitamins, and antioxidants. It helps improve skin texture, even out skin tone, and provide a smoother, more supple complexion.
- Antioxidant activity: Contains ferulic acid and inositol that protect skin from free radical and UV-induced damage.
- Anti-aging: Inhibits elastase activity, helping to preserve skin elasticity and slow visible signs of aging.
- Soothing: Reduces redness and irritation while providing gentle moisturization.
17 Amino Acid Complex 8 EssentialProven
A comprehensive blend of 17 amino acids including lysine, histidine, arginine, threonine, serine, glycine, proline, and more. These are the building blocks of skin proteins like collagen and elastin.
- Barrier support: Amino acids make up approximately 40% of the skin's natural moisturizing factor (NMF), essential for hydration.
- Collagen synthesis: Proline and glycine are direct building blocks for collagen production in the skin.
- Hydration: Enhances the skin's aquaporin water transport system, improving moisture distribution.
Cucumber Extract & Rose WaterSoothing
Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Extract and Rosa Damascena (Rose) Flower Water provide calming, hydrating, and antioxidant benefits to complement the active ingredients.
- Cucumber: Rich in vitamins C and K, helps soothe irritated skin and reduce puffiness.
- Rose water: Anti-inflammatory and mildly astringent, helps tone and refresh the complexion.
Glycerin, Sodium PCA & UreaProven
A trio of powerful humectants that mimic the skin's own natural moisturizing factors. They draw water into the skin and help maintain optimal hydration levels throughout the day.
- Glycerin: One of the most effective and well-studied humectants, proven to improve skin barrier function at concentrations as low as 3%.
- Sodium PCA & PCA: Natural components of the skin's NMF, attracting moisture from the environment.
- Urea: A keratolytic humectant that hydrates while gently smoothing rough texture.
42 ingredients
Aqua, Glycerin, Niacinamide (5%), Propanediol, Lysine, Histidine, Arginine, Aspartic Acid, Threonine, Serine, Glutamic Acid, Proline, Glycine, Alanine, Valine, Methionine, Isoleucine, Leucine, Tyrosine, Phenylalanine, Cysteine, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract, Pentylene Glycol, Rosa Damascena (Rose) Flower Water, Ethoxydiglycol, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Extract, Sodium PCA, Diglycerin, Urea, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Sorbitol, PCA, Allantoin, Lactic Acid, Methyl Gluceth-20, Benzyl Alcohol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Caprylyl Glycol, Cyclodextrin, Xanthan Gum, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Sodium Gluconate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse morning and evening. Apply on damp skin after cleansing and toning for best absorption. Always follow with SPF during the day.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with a gentle cleanser to remove impurities, dirt, and excess oil. Pat skin dry or leave slightly damp.
Apply 2-3 Drops
Dispense 2-3 drops of the serum onto your fingertips or directly onto your face. A little goes a long way.
Gently Pat Into Skin
Using your fingertips, gently pat and press the serum into your skin. Avoid rubbing. Allow 30 seconds for full absorption.
Follow Up
Layer your moisturizer on top. In the morning, always finish with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen. At night, follow with a nourishing night cream.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You are new to serums and active skincare ingredients
- You want to fade dark spots, blemishes, and post-acne marks
- You have oily or combination skin that needs oil control
- You prefer lightweight, non-greasy formulas
- You want a fragrance-free, vegan product
- You are looking for an affordable daily brightening serum
- You need a pregnancy-safe niacinamide product
Consider alternatives if:
- You need a high-strength niacinamide (10%+) for stubborn hyperpigmentation
- You want additional zinc for aggressive oil control
- You prefer a thicker, more emollient serum for very dry skin
- You need a serum with added retinol or vitamin C
- You are looking for anti-aging peptide complexes
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight, water-based formula absorbs instantly without adding shine. Niacinamide helps regulate sebum production.
Balances well across oily and dry zones. Hydrates without clogging pores in the T-zone.
Fragrance-free, gentle 5% concentration. Highly tolerated even by reactive skin. Patch test recommended for very sensitive types.
Provides hydration via glycerin, amino acids, and NMF components. Layer with a rich moisturizer for best results on dry skin.
Non-comedogenic, oil-free, fungal acne safe. Niacinamide has anti-inflammatory properties that help calm active breakouts.
Results timeline
WEEKS 8-12Improved Hydration & Smoother Texture
Skin feels softer, more hydrated, and smoother to the touch. The amino acid complex and humectants begin restoring moisture levels.
70% noticed improved skin feelReduced Oiliness & Initial Glow
Niacinamide starts regulating sebum production. Skin appears less shiny and more balanced. Early signs of a brighter complexion emerge.
60% noticed reduced oilinessFading Blemishes & Brighter Skin
Dark spots and post-acne marks begin to visibly lighten. Skin tone appears more even and radiant with consistent daily use.
55% noticed fading blemishesVisible Transformation
Significant improvement in overall skin clarity, brightness, and texture. Pores appear minimized and skin barrier is noticeably stronger.
80% saw significant improvementRatings by platform
14K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely lightweight and absorbs in seconds with no stickiness
- Perfect beginner-friendly 5% concentration with no irritation
- Fragrance-free formula suitable for sensitive skin
- Impressive amino acid complex (17 total, 8 essential)
- 100% vegan and PETA certified cruelty-free
- Affordable price point for the quality of ingredients
- Works well under sunscreen and makeup
- Noticeable hydration boost and dewy finish
Criticized
- Only 30ml bottle size — runs out quickly with twice-daily use
- 5% niacinamide may be too mild for stubborn dark spots
- No zinc for extra oil control like some competitors offer
- Results for hyperpigmentation take 6-8 weeks of consistent use
- Glass dropper bottle is not the most travel-friendly
- Less widely available outside India compared to global brands
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Higher niacinamide concentration (10%) with added zinc for oil control. Simpler formula without amino acids or rice water. More potent but may irritate sensitive skin.
10% niacinamide with zinc and marine-derived Matmarine extract. Stronger sebum control focus. No amino acid complex or rice water botanicals. Also Indian-made.
Same 5% niacinamide concentration with added alpha arbutin for enhanced brightening. Lacks the amino acid complex and rice water but adds targeted spot-fading power.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the cap tightly closed after each use.
Glass dropper bottle with pipette applicator for precise dispensing
Yes, 30ml is well under the 100ml carry-on limit. Glass bottle — handle with care during travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This serum is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid (BHA), hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters. The lactic acid listed near the bottom of the ingredient list is present at a very low concentration as a pH adjuster, not as an active exfoliant. However, always consult your healthcare provider before introducing new skincare products during pregnancy.
Yes. This serum is fungal acne safe. It is free from ferments, fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, and oils that are known to feed malassezia yeast. The water-based, oil-free formula makes it a safe choice for those prone to fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis.
Niacinamide at 5% is generally compatible with most active ingredients. It pairs well with retinol, hyaluronic acid, AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid), and BHAs (salicylic acid). For pure vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), it is best to use them at different times of day — apply vitamin C in the morning and niacinamide in the evening — as combining them simultaneously may reduce the effectiveness of both ingredients. Derivative forms of vitamin C are generally fine to layer with niacinamide.
This serum is formulated for all skin types. It is especially well-suited for oily, combination, sensitive, and acne-prone skin due to its lightweight, oil-free, fragrance-free formula. Those with dry skin can also benefit by layering it under a richer moisturizer. The gentle 5% concentration makes it particularly ideal for sensitive skin and skincare beginners.
Most users report improved hydration and smoother texture within the first 1-2 weeks. Visible brightening and reduced oiliness typically appear by weeks 2-3. For fading dark spots and blemishes, expect 4-8 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Maximum results for hyperpigmentation and skin tone evening are usually seen at the 8-12 week mark.
Apply this serum after cleansing and toning, but before heavier products like moisturizer and sunscreen. The general order is: Cleanser → Toner → This Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM). It can be used both morning and evening. For best absorption, apply on slightly damp skin.
No. This serum has a very low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. It is oil-free, silicone-free, and free from known pore-clogging ingredients. The water-based formula is non-comedogenic and suitable for acne-prone skin. Niacinamide itself has been shown to help minimize the appearance of pores.
The serum has a shelf life of approximately 12 months after opening (PAO 12M). Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and keep the dropper cap tightly sealed after each use. With twice-daily use of 2-3 drops, a 30ml bottle typically lasts 6-8 weeks.
Verdict: The Plum 5% Niacinamide Face Serum with Rice Water is an excellent entry-level niacinamide serum that delivers on its core promises of brightening, hydrating, and smoothing the skin. Its standout feature is the impressive 17-amino-acid complex combined with rice water — a combination not found in most competitor serums at this price point. The gentle 5% concentration makes it ideal for beginners and sensitive skin types, while the clean, vegan, fragrance-free formula ticks all the boxes for conscious consumers. Where it falls short is the 30ml size (which runs out fast) and the lack of zinc for stronger oil control. If you need aggressive blemish-fading, a 10% niacinamide may serve you better. But as a daily brightening serum that is pregnancy safe, fungal acne safe, and gentle on all skin types, this is a solid and well-formulated choice.
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 4 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 7 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
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Lysine
Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
|