B3 Nice 10% Niacinamide Serum
B3 Nice 10% Niacinamide Serum
Product Description
Sunday Riley B3 Nice is a water-based, advanced 10% niacinamide serum supercharged with trans-resveratrol and Brightenyl (Diglucosyl Gallic Acid) that visibly reduces the look of pore size, post-acne dark spots, surface redness, and blotchy tone. A lightweight, clinically-tested treatment designed by founder Sunday Riley for balanced, radiant, even-toned skin β suitable for all skin types.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Clinically Proven 10%
Brand studies show 100% of users saw reduced oiliness and dark spots in 2 weeks, and 97% noted smaller-looking pores in 8 weeks.
Antioxidant Boost
Trans-resveratrol, EGCG (green tea), and curcuminoids neutralize free radicals from pollution and UV exposure.
Brightenyl Technology
A biotech-derived molecule activated by your skin's microbiome to brighten tone and soothe signs of sensitivity.
Pore & Oil Control
Regulates sebum production and refines pore appearance without stripping β safe for both oily and dry skin types.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone. Niacinamide is considered safe during pregnancy and nursing. Consult your OB/GYN to be sure.
Contains argan oil, PEG-8, polysorbate 60, and esters (octyldodecanol) that may feed malassezia. Not ideal for active fungal acne.
Modern formulations of niacinamide and L-ascorbic acid are compatible. Can be layered or used AM/PM without issue.
Niacinamide actually buffers retinol and AHA/BHA irritation. Apply B3 Nice first, then layer your retinol or exfoliant on top.
Certified cruelty-free. Not tested on animals. Not sold in markets that require animal testing.
Contains tangerine and lemon peel oils in tiny amounts. Very reactive skin may want to patch test first.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) 10% Proven
The hero active β a form of vitamin B3 with extensive clinical research behind it. At 10%, B3 Nice delivers roughly double the concentration of most competitor serums, which typically range from 4β6%.
- Barrier repair: Boosts ceramide and keratin production, strengthening the skin's moisture barrier.
- Oil regulation: Clinical studies show 2% niacinamide reduces sebum; higher percentages amplify the effect.
- Pigmentation: Blocks melanosome transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes, fading post-acne marks.
- Pores: Reduces the visible appearance of enlarged pores over 4β8 weeks of consistent use.
π Trans-Resveratrol <1% Proven
The purest and most bioactive form of resveratrol β a polyphenol antioxidant derived from grape skins and Japanese knotweed. Partners with niacinamide to amplify brightening.
- Antioxidant power: Neutralizes free radicals from UV and pollution more effectively than vitamin E in some studies.
- Anti-inflammatory: Calms surface redness and supports barrier function.
- Elasticity: Promotes collagen preservation and helps smooth fine lines.
β¨ Brightenyl (Diglucosyl Gallic Acid) <1% Promising
A biotechnologically engineered molecule that is activated by the skin's own microbiome. Once on the skin, enzymes convert it into a melanin-regulating compound.
- Brightening: Targets dull, ruddy, uneven complexions to promote even tone.
- Sensitivity-friendly: Marketed as suitable for reactive skin β a gentler alternative to hydroquinone or strong acids.
- Microbiome-activated: Designed to work with natural skin flora rather than disrupt it.
π΅ EGCG (Epigallocatechin Gallatyl Glucoside) <0.5% Proven
A stabilized, glucoside-derivatized form of the main catechin in green tea β designed for better stability and skin penetration than standard EGCG.
- Research: Studies show EGCG protects against UVB-induced oxidative stress and collagen breakdown.
- Anti-pollution: Shields skin from environmental aggressors tied to premature aging.
- Anti-inflammatory: Calms irritation and redness common in sensitive or acne-prone skin.
πΏ Centella Asiatica Actives (Asiaticoside + Madecassoside) ~2% Proven
Isolated actives from gotu kola (Centella asiatica) β the cornerstone of K-beauty soothing formulas, here used at meaningful concentrations.
- Barrier repair: Clinically shown to strengthen and restore a compromised moisture barrier.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces redness and calms active irritation.
- Wound healing: Supports recovery from post-acne marks and micro-inflammation.
π§ Glycerin + Betaine ~5% Proven
Two workhorse humectants that draw water into the upper skin layers and hold it there, preventing the "dryness" some people complain about with high-niacinamide formulas.
- Hydration: Glycerin is more effective than petrolatum at preventing trans-epidermal water loss in some studies.
- Skin feel: Creates the plump, dewy finish reviewers consistently praise.
44 ingredients
Water, Niacinamide, Glycerin, Phenyl Trimethicone, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Octyldodecanol, Resveratrol, Diglucosyl Gallic Acid, Asiaticoside, Madecassoside, Epigallocatechin Gallatyl Glucoside, Boswellia Serrata Resin Extract, Curcuma Longa Root Extract, Ocimum Basilicum Flower/Leaf Extract, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Flower Extract, Solanum Melongena Fruit Extract, Coccinia Indica Fruit Extract, Betaine, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Benzotriazolyl Dodecyl P-Cresol, PEG-8, Tetrahydrodiferuloylmethane, Tetrahydrodemethoxydiferuloylmethane, Tetrahydrobisdemethoxydiferuloylmethane, Punica Granatum Fruit Extract, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Extract, Citrus Grandis Peel Extract, Citrus Tangerina Peel Oil, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Citrus Limon Peel Oil, Sodium Phytate, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Polysorbate 60, Sorbitan Isostearate, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate, Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Dimethicone, Trideceth-6, PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone, Tocopherol, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Chlorphenesin, Triethyl Citrate.
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
π‘ Apply B3 Nice before heavier treatments like Good Genes or A+ Retinoid. The watery formula absorbs in seconds and layers seamlessly.
π How to Use
Cleanse & Prep
Wash your face with your usual cleanser and pat dry. Optionally apply a hydrating toner first.
Dispense 3β4 Drops
Hold the dropper carefully β the wide-neck bottle can drip. Place drops in your palm or directly on the face.
Apply to Face, Neck & DΓ©colletΓ©
Gently press and pat over face, neck, and chest. The watery serum absorbs in about 30 seconds.
Follow with Moisturizer (and SPF in AM)
Lock in with your favorite moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with broad-spectrum SPF 30+.
Use 1β2 Times Daily
Can be used morning and evening. Be consistent for at least 4β8 weeks for full brightening and pore-refining results.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You struggle with post-acne dark spots or hyperpigmentation
- You have enlarged or visible pores you want to refine
- Your skin is oily, combination, or acts up in humid weather
- You have redness or a blotchy, uneven skin tone
- Your skin is sensitive to vitamin C and you need a gentler brightener
- You're looking for an all-in-one treatment with actives + antioxidants
β Consider alternatives if:
- You're actively dealing with fungal acne (malassezia) flare-ups
- You're on a tight budget β dupes exist under $15
- You have extreme sensitivity to essential oils (citrus peel oils)
- You have very dry skin and need a richer, cream-based treatment
- You're allergic to niacinamide (rare, but possible)
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Niacinamide at 10% is a proven sebum regulator. Watery formula absorbs without adding shine.
Balances oily T-zone while hydrating drier cheeks thanks to glycerin and betaine humectants.
Delivers hydration, but dry types will want to layer a richer moisturizer on top for lasting comfort.
Niacinamide + Centella are soothing, but citrus peel oils mean very reactive skin should patch-test first.
Low comedogenic rating, anti-inflammatory actives, and strong post-acne dark spot fading make this a top pick.
Antioxidant blend (resveratrol, EGCG) supports anti-aging, though retinol remains the stronger wrinkle-smoother.
π Results Timeline
Instant Hydration & Dewy Glow
Skin feels plumper and more dewy immediately. Editors who tested the serum noted visibly more hydrated skin after just one night.
Noted by most first-time usersOiliness & Dark Spots Begin to Fade
Brand clinical studies report that 100% of participants saw improvement in oiliness and the appearance of post-acne dark spots within 14 days.
100% noticed (brand study, n=33)Clearer, Less Red Complexion
100% of participants in the brand's study reported clearer skin and visible reduction in surface redness by the 4-week mark.
100% noticedRefined Pores & Even Tone
97% of users felt their pores looked visibly smaller after 8 weeks of consistent daily use. Tone appears more uniform and radiant.
97% noticedLong-Term Barrier Health
With continued use, niacinamide and Centella strengthen the moisture barrier, reducing sensitivity and supporting overall skin resilience.
Cumulative benefitβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- High 10% niacinamide β double most competitors
- Visibly fades post-acne marks and redness within 2β4 weeks
- Lightweight, non-sticky, layers well under SPF and makeup
- Multi-active blend: resveratrol, EGCG, Centella, Brightenyl
- Gentle enough for people sensitive to vitamin C
- Clinically tested with strong brand-reported results
- Cruelty-free and Clean at Sephora certified
β Criticized
- Expensive at $65 for only 30ml
- Non-airless dropper can drip and crust over
- Contains citrus peel oils that reactive skin may dislike
- Not fungal-acne safe due to esters and PEGs
- Brand studies are small (n=33) and not peer-reviewed
- Milky consistency dries around the bottle lid
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Same 10% niacinamide concentration at 1/10th the price. Strips out the resveratrol, Centella, Brightenyl, and antioxidant blend β a bare-bones formula focused on oil control. Slightly tackier finish.
Adds hyaluronic acid, EGCG, vitamin C derivative, and licorice root. Closer in formulation sophistication to B3 Nice but only 20ml (smaller size). Slightly silkier texture, less dewy finish.
Affordable 4% niacinamide with tranexamic acid for brightening. Lower active concentration but adds a different pigment-fader. Great entry-level option for beginners on a budget.
K-beauty alternative with 2% niacinamide, rice extract, and alpha-arbutin. Lower niacinamide % but a similar brightening + barrier-repair philosophy. Fragrance-free, reef-safe.
Features 5% niacinamide, pomegranate, and peptides. Shared antioxidant-plus-B3 philosophy with a more firming/anti-aging focus. Slightly heavier texture.
A stripped-down 10% niacinamide + hyaluronic acid option. Very hydrating but lacks the full antioxidant support of B3 Nice. Best if you want a pure B3 experience cheaply.
π Comparison with Competitors
Sunday Riley B3 Nice 10% (Featured)
$65.00The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
$6.50Paula's Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster
$44.00Glow Recipe Pomegranate Peptide Serum
$45.00π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. Look for the open-jar icon on the packaging for the exact indication.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. A bathroom cabinet or vanity drawer is ideal to protect the trans-resveratrol.
Glass bottle with a traditional (non-airless) dropper. Wipe the neck clean after use to prevent dried residue.
Yes β 30ml is well under the 100ml TSA liquid limit. Secure the dropper tightly in a zip bag to prevent leakage.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Yes β niacinamide is considered one of the safest actives to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. B3 Nice does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. The trace citrus peel oils are at very low concentrations. As always, consult your OB/GYN before introducing any new skincare during pregnancy.
Not fully. The formula contains argan oil, PEG-8, polysorbate 60, octyldodecanol, and sorbitan isostearate β ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast in people prone to fungal acne. If you are actively dealing with a malassezia flare, consider a stripped-down option like The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% or a dedicated FA-safe serum.
Yes to all four. Modern research has debunked the old myth that niacinamide and vitamin C "cancel out" β you can use them in the same routine. Niacinamide actually reduces irritation from retinol and exfoliating acids, making it a great buffer. Apply B3 Nice first (after cleansing/toning), then layer your retinol, AHA, or BHA on top.
B3 Nice is formulated for all skin types but shines brightest on oily, combination, and acne-prone skin because of the pore-refining, oil-regulating, and brightening effects of 10% niacinamide. Dry and mature skin benefit too but should layer a richer moisturizer on top. Sensitive skin generally tolerates it well, though very reactive skin should patch test due to the trace citrus peel oils.
Most users notice an instant plumping and dewy glow after the very first application thanks to the glycerin. Brand clinical studies report 100% of participants saw reduced oiliness and post-acne dark spots within 2 weeks, 100% saw clearer skin and less redness at 4 weeks, and 97% saw smaller-looking pores after 8 weeks. Consistent twice-daily use over 4β8 weeks delivers the most dramatic results.
Apply B3 Nice after cleansing and toning, but before heavier treatments like Good Genes lactic acid or A+ Retinoid. The order is: Cleanser β Toner β B3 Nice Serum β Treatment Serum (optional) β Moisturizer β SPF (AM only). Use morning and/or evening depending on your tolerance.
B3 Nice scores low on the comedogenic scale (approximately 1/5). The formula is water-based and lightweight. The only ingredients with mild comedogenic potential are argan oil (low concentration, near the end of the INCI) and a few esters. Most reviewers β including those with acne-prone skin β report no clogging or breakouts.
B3 Nice has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Look for the "12M" open-jar symbol on the packaging. For best results, keep the bottle tightly closed, store in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight (the trans-resveratrol is light-sensitive), and wipe the dropper neck clean after each use to prevent crusted residue.
Verdict: Sunday Riley B3 Nice 10% Niacinamide Serum is a genuinely sophisticated take on niacinamide β pairing the hero active with trans-resveratrol, EGCG, Centella actives, and the biotech-derived Brightenyl complex. If you want visible results on post-acne dark spots, enlarged pores, surface redness, and oiliness without the irritation of vitamin C, this formula delivers. The $65 price tag is steep for 30ml, and the non-airless dropper is a legitimate gripe, but the multi-active blend and clinical results justify it for those who prefer a luxury all-in-one serum. For budget shoppers, The Ordinary's $6.50 version covers the basics. For everyone else chasing clear, even, radiant skin β B3 Nice earns its cult status.
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 Β«promisesΒ» 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 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Phenyl Trimethicone
Antifoaming Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Dimethyl Isosorbide
Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Viscosity Controlling
|
|

