Hyper Niacinamide 20 Serum
Hyper Niacinamide 20 Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A high-potency brightening serum featuring 20% Niacinamide combined with Arbutin, Zinc PCA, and 10 types of Hyaluronic Acid. This powerhouse formula targets enlarged pores, uneven skin tone, excess sebum, and hyperpigmentation while delivering intense hydration with a lightweight, fast-absorbing texture.
Brightening Powerhouse
20% Niacinamide combined with Arbutin works to fade dark spots and even out skin tone for a luminous complexion.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBrightening Powerhouse
20% Niacinamide combined with Arbutin works to fade dark spots and even out skin tone for a luminous complexion.
Pore Minimizing
Zinc PCA regulates sebum production and visibly tightens enlarged pores for smoother-looking skin.
Multi-Layer Hydration
10 types of Hyaluronic Acid provide deep, lasting hydration at multiple skin layers without heaviness.
Barrier Support
Adenosine and botanical extracts strengthen the skin barrier while soothing irritation and redness.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENiacinamide (Vitamin B3) is FDA-approved and considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. No retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone present.
Free from ferments, fatty acids, esters, and polysorbates that trigger fungal acne. Verified safe by multiple ingredient analyzers.
Oil-free, silicone-free formula with a comedogenic rating of 0. Will not clog pores or cause breakouts.
20% Niacinamide is a potent concentration. Start slowly (every other day) and patch test. Some may experience mild tingling initially.
Can be used with Vitamin C but in separate routines (AM/PM) to maximize effectiveness. Wait 10-15 minutes between applications if layering.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and contains soothing ingredients like Portulaca Oleracea Extract and Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSNiacinamide 20%Proven
Also known as Vitamin B3, Niacinamide is a multitasking powerhouse that strengthens the skin barrier, regulates sebum, fades hyperpigmentation, and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Mechanism: Converts to NAD+ in cells, boosting cellular energy and repair processes
- Efficacy: Studies show 2-5% effective; 20% provides intensive results for stubborn concerns
- Benefits: Oil control, pore minimizing, brightening, anti-aging, barrier repair
Arbutin Key ActiveProven
A natural skin brightening agent derived from bearberry plants that inhibits tyrosinase activity to reduce melanin production and fade dark spots without irritation.
- Source: Derived from bearberry, cranberry, and blueberry plants
- Action: Inhibits tyrosinase enzyme to reduce melanin synthesis
- Safety: Gentler alternative to hydroquinone with no rebound hyperpigmentation
Zinc PCA Key ActiveProven
A zinc salt combined with PCA (pyrrolidone carboxylic acid) that regulates sebum production, has antimicrobial properties, and helps maintain skin hydration.
- Oil Control: Clinically shown to reduce sebum production after 28 days of use
- Antimicrobial: Effective against P. acnes bacteria between 0.1-0.25%
- Hydration: L-PCA component is a natural moisturizing factor (NMF)
10 Types of Hyaluronic Acid Multi-WeightProven
A complex of different molecular weights of Hyaluronic Acid that hydrate at multiple skin levels - from the surface to deeper layers - for plump, bouncy skin.
- High MW (1000+ kDa): Forms a moisture-locking film on skin surface
- Medium MW (100-300 kDa): Supports skin repair and barrier function
- Low MW (50 kDa): Penetrates deeper to plump fine lines from within
Adenosine SupportingProven
A naturally occurring compound with proven anti-aging benefits. Stimulates collagen production and smooths fine lines while providing soothing properties.
- Anti-Wrinkle: Approved anti-wrinkle ingredient by Korean FDA at 0.04%+
- Collagen Boost: Promotes fibroblast activity for firmer skin
30 ingredients
Water, Niacinamide (20%), Dipropylene Glycol, Methylpropanediol, Propanediol, Arbutin, Glycerin, Zinc PCA, Sodium PCA, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Hyaluronic Acid, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Potassium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Pinus Palustris Leaf Extract, Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Flower Extract, Pueraria Lobata Root Extract, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Adenosine, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Tromethamine, Butylene Glycol, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydroxyacetophenone
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after water-based products, before heavier creams. Use AM and/or PM. Always follow with SPF in daytime.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Prep
Start with clean, dry skin. Apply your toner first and let it absorb.
Dispense 2-3 Drops
Use the dropper to dispense 2-3 drops onto your fingertips or directly onto your face.
Gently Pat In
Spread evenly across the face, avoiding eye area. Gently pat until fully absorbed (15-30 seconds).
Follow Up
Continue with moisturizer. In AM, always finish with broad-spectrum SPF 30+.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin with enlarged pores
- You struggle with hyperpigmentation or dark spots
- You want to control excess sebum production
- You need a fungal acne safe brightening serum
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need safe actives
- You want anti-aging benefits without irritation
- You prefer fragrance-free, clean formulas
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry skin and need richer hydration
- You're highly sensitive to high-concentration actives
- You've never used niacinamide before (start with 5-10%)
- You need a larger bottle size (this is only 20ml)
- You prefer products with added ceramides or peptides
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Zinc PCA regulates sebum, lightweight texture absorbs quickly without adding shine. Controls oil all day.
Balances T-zone oiliness while 10 types of HA hydrate drier areas. Works harmoniously across all zones.
Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe, and antibacterial. Fades post-acne marks while preventing new breakouts.
Great for maintaining healthy skin, brightening, and preventing signs of aging. May not need such high concentration.
The 10 types of HA provide hydration, but dry skin types will need a rich moisturizer on top. May feel slightly drying alone.
Fragrance-free with soothing botanicals. However, 20% niacinamide is potent - patch test first and build tolerance gradually.
Results timeline
WEEK 12+Initial Hydration & Texture Improvement
Skin feels more hydrated and smoother. Some users notice immediate pore tightening effect after application. Slight tingling may occur as skin adjusts to 20% concentration.
70% noticed hydration boostOil Control & Brightness
Visible reduction in excess sebum and shine. Skin tone starts to look more even and radiant. Pores appear visibly minimized.
65% noticed oil controlHyperpigmentation Fading
Dark spots and post-acne marks begin to fade noticeably. Overall complexion looks brighter and more uniform. Skin barrier feels stronger.
75% noticed spot fadingLong-Term Transformation
Significant improvement in skin texture, tone, and clarity. Fine lines appear softer. Consistent use maintains results and prevents new pigmentation.
80% saw major improvementRatings by platform
5K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Highly effective 20% niacinamide concentration
- Fungal acne and pregnancy safe formula
- Contains 10 types of hyaluronic acid for hydration
- Fast-absorbing, lightweight, non-sticky texture
- Visibly minimizes pores and controls oil
- Fades dark spots and evens skin tone
- Fragrance-free and clean formula
- Works well under makeup
Criticized
- Small 20ml bottle size for the price
- 20% may be too strong for beginners
- Can leave white residue if over-applied
- May cause initial tingling or flushing
- Dry skin types may need extra moisturizer
- Dropper can be imprecise
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Half the niacinamide concentration (10% vs 20%) but excellent value. Simpler formula without arbutin or multiple HA types. Better for beginners.
15% niacinamide with Zinc PCA and Acetyl Glucosamine. Same size (20ml). Lacks the 10 types of HA but adds Vitamin E. Very similar performance.
Same 20% concentration with added Vitamin C derivative and licorice. More luxurious formula but significantly more expensive. Includes peptides.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Use within one year once opened for best efficacy.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children. No refrigeration needed.
Glass dropper bottle with protective outer box. Dark amber/opaque glass helps protect formula from light degradation.
Yes, 20ml is under 100ml TSA limit. Compact size fits easily in carry-on liquids bag.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this serum is safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is FDA-approved for use during pregnancy and nursing. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or other pregnancy-restricted ingredients. However, always consult your healthcare provider before adding new products to your routine during pregnancy.
Yes, this serum is fungal acne safe. It's free from ferments, fatty acids, fatty alcohols, esters, and polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast. The formula has been verified as FA-safe by multiple ingredient analyzers including SkinSort and SkinCarisma. It's an excellent choice for those prone to fungal acne.
Yes, but with some guidelines. Niacinamide pairs well with most ingredients. For Vitamin C: Use in separate routines (one AM, one PM) or wait 15-20 minutes between applications. For Retinol: Can be used together - niacinamide actually helps buffer retinol irritation. For AHA/BHA: Safe to use together, but if you experience irritation, alternate days. Always introduce one active at a time.
This serum is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The Zinc PCA regulates sebum, while the lightweight formula absorbs without adding shine. It also works well for normal skin concerned with brightening and anti-aging. Dry skin types can use it but should layer with a rich moisturizer. Sensitive skin should patch test first due to the high 20% concentration.
Initial results (hydration, smoother texture) can be noticed within 1-2 weeks. Oil control and pore minimizing effects typically appear by week 3-4. For hyperpigmentation and dark spots, expect 6-12 weeks of consistent use. Fine line improvement may take 8-12 weeks. Best results come with daily, consistent use over 3+ months.
Apply after cleansing and toning, before heavier creams and moisturizers. The order is: Cleanser → Toner → This Serum → Essence (optional) → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM). Use 2-3 drops and gently pat into skin. Can be used both morning and evening. Always follow with SPF during daytime.
No, this serum has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. It's oil-free, silicone-free, and contains no pore-clogging ingredients. In fact, the Zinc PCA and Niacinamide actively help unclog pores and regulate sebum. It's safe for acne-prone skin and won't cause breakouts.
The serum has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy. The 20ml bottle typically lasts 1-2 months with twice-daily use (2-3 drops per application). Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain potency.
Verdict: Isntree Hyper Niacinamide 20 Serum is an impressive K-beauty powerhouse for those seeking serious brightening, pore-minimizing, and oil-control benefits. The combination of 20% Niacinamide, Arbutin, Zinc PCA, and 10 types of Hyaluronic Acid delivers multi-targeted results in a clean, fungal acne safe, and pregnancy-safe formula. While the small 20ml size and potent concentration may not suit everyone, it's an excellent choice for oily and combination skin types battling hyperpigmentation and enlarged pores. For best value, consider if you need the full 20% concentration or if a gentler 10-15% alternative would suffice.
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 5 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 9 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 2 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
|
|
| 1 |
Dipropylene Glycol
Fragrance, Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 1 |
Methylpropanediol
Solvent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|