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Niacid

Niacid

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

Slurp Niacid is a concentrated K-beauty serum engineered to fade post-acne marks, hyperpigmentation, and dark spots while reconstructing a damaged skin barrier. Built around 60% Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate, 2% Niacinamide, Tranexamic Acid, snail mucin, and the brand's signature Melatrepein™ 5000 peptide complex, its lipid-mimicking, oil-free texture absorbs in seconds without increasing sun sensitivity.

By Slurp Laboratories 60% Galactomyces Ferment 2% Niacinamide + Tranexamic Acid Snail Secretion Filtrate Melatrepein™ 5000 Peptide Fragrance-Free Cruelty-Free Alcohol-Free 91% Top-Allergen-Free (SkinSAFE) Teen-Safe
Pregnancy
Caution
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
1/5
Type
Treatment Serum
Size
30 ml / 1 fl oz
Concern
PIH & Dark Spots
Origin
South Korea
Ingredients
18 INCI
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Fades PIH & Dark Spots

Niacinamide + Tranexamic Acid work synergistically to reduce red marks and brown spots from past breakouts and UV exposure.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Lipid-mimicking, oil-free drops
Scent
Fragrance-free
Absorption
Fast (under 30 sec)
Finish
Soft, semi-dewy

Fades PIH & Dark Spots

Niacinamide + Tranexamic Acid work synergistically to reduce red marks and brown spots from past breakouts and UV exposure.

Repairs Skin Barrier

Snail mucin, sodium hyaluronate and peptides reinforce the barrier and accelerate post-inflammatory healing.

Soothes Inflammation

Scutellaria Baicalensis, Witch Hazel and Sodium Guaiazulene Sulfonate calm redness and irritation.

No Sun Sensitivity

Unlike retinol or AHAs, Niacid does not increase photo-sensitivity — usable both AM and PM.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pairs well with Vitamin C, AHA/BHA, Retinol

Niacinamide and tranexamic acid are non-conflicting and even complementary with most actives when layered correctly.

Non-photosensitizing

Brand confirms Niacid does not increase sun sensitivity — but daily SPF is still recommended to protect fading progress.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

No retinoids or hydroquinone, but contains tranexamic acid and ferments. Consult your OB/GYN before use during pregnancy.

Not Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safe

Galactomyces ferment filtrate may feed malassezia yeast. Avoid if you have confirmed fungal acne / pityrosporum folliculitis.

Contains Snail Mucin

Not vegan. Brand states snail mucin is harvested without harming snails. Cruelty-free and not animal-tested.

Salicylate Allergy Note

Contains Salix Alba (willow bark) extract. Patch test if you have a known aspirin/salicylate allergy.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate ~60%Proven

The hero ingredient — a yeast-derived ferment (the same family as SK-II's Pitera) used here at high concentration. Brightens, smooths skin texture, and helps regulate sebum and pore appearance.

  • Mechanism: Boosts filaggrin and natural moisturizing factors (NMF) to reinforce the barrier.
  • Antioxidant action: Protects against oxidative stress and UV-induced inflammation.
  • Brand claim: Used at ~60% concentration for measurable brightening and pore-minimizing effects.
Ferments may feed malassezia yeast — not recommended if you have confirmed fungal acne.

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~2%Proven

A multitasking form of vitamin B3 that fades dark spots, strengthens the barrier, regulates oil and improves the look of pores. Well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive.

  • Skin tone: Inhibits melanosome transfer to surface keratinocytes — proven to reduce hyperpigmentation.
  • Barrier: Increases ceramide synthesis for stronger, more hydrated skin.
  • Concentration: ~2% is the effective range for barrier support and even tone.

Tranexamic Acid ActiveProven

A lysine-derived amino acid clinically validated for melasma and stubborn discoloration. Works synergistically with niacinamide to flatten red and brown post-acne marks.

  • Mechanism: Constricts blood vessels and blocks the plasmin pathway involved in pigment overproduction.
  • Used in dermatology: Topically and orally to treat melasma and PIH.
  • Synergy: Pairs with niacinamide for amplified spot-fading.

Snail Secretion Filtrate ActiveProven

A K-beauty cult ingredient packed with glycoproteins, copper peptides, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants. Repairs damaged skin, accelerates wound healing and softens texture.

  • Composition: Naturally contains allantoin, glycolic acid, copper peptides, vitamins A and E.
  • Action: Stimulates fibroblast activity and collagen production for scar smoothing.
  • K-beauty staple: Widely studied for post-acne mark fading and barrier repair.

Pentasodium Peptide Complex (Melatrepein™ 5000) ActivePromising

The brand's signature peptide blend — Pentasodium Tetracarboxymethyl Acetylhydroxyprolyl Dipeptide-12 and Dipeptide-51 — marketed as a "clean-up crew" that targets melanosomes and supports brightening.

  • Brand mechanism: Designed to degrade existing melanosomes and slow new pigment formation.
  • Supporting role: Works alongside niacinamide and tranexamic acid for radiance.
  • Note: Effects are brand-claimed; independent peer-reviewed data is limited.
This is a proprietary blend. Strong on theory, but evidence comes mainly from in-house brand studies.

Soothing & Hydrating Botanicals SupportingPromising

A blanket of calming and hydrating extracts that round out the formula and help sensitive, reactive skin tolerate the actives.

  • Scutellaria Baicalensis: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory; some antimicrobial activity.
  • Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel): Astringent, soothes redness and tightens pores.
  • Sodium Guaiazulene Sulfonate: Blue-toned chamomile derivative — calms reactive skin.
  • Sodium Hyaluronate: Locks in moisture inside the upper layers of the skin.
  • Salix Alba (Willow Bark): Natural source of salicin; mild exfoliation and texture refinement.
  • Prunus Mume & Brassica Oleracea: Antioxidant, may inhibit melanin production.

18 ingredients

Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate, Butylene Glycol, Niacinamide, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Illicium Verum (Anise) Fruit Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Tranexamic Acid, Snail Secretion Filtrate, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract, Pentasodium Tetracarboxymethyl Acetylhydroxyprolyl Dipeptide-12, Pentasodium Tetracarboxymethyl Dipeptide-51, Sodium Hyaluronate, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, Prunus Mume Fruit Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Brassica Oleracea Capitata Leaf Extract, Sodium Guaiazulene Sulfonate.

FREE FROM: Fragrance · Essential Oils · Alcohol (Denatured) · Parabens · Sulfates (SLS/SLES) · Silicones · Mineral Oil · Lanolin · Coconut Derivatives · Soy · Gluten · Nickel · Dyes · Talc · Phthalates · Bisphenols · MCI/MI · Topical Antibiotics · Hydroquinone · Retinoids · Animal Testing.
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
Toner
3
Niacid Serum
4
Hydrating Serum
5
Moisturizer
6
SPF (AM)

Apply Niacid right after cleansing on damp skin, before heavier serums and creams. AM & PM friendly. Always finish your morning routine with broad-spectrum SPF.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Cleanse

Wash with a gentle, low-pH cleanser and pat skin to a slightly damp finish — Niacid absorbs better on hydrated skin.

2

Dispense

Start with 3 drops on the palm. As tolerance builds, work up to 6 drops, then half a dropper per use.

3

Press, don't rub

Gently press the serum into face and neck until fully absorbed. Focus on areas with marks, dark spots and uneven tone.

4

Layer & lock

Follow with a hydrating serum or moisturizer to seal humectants in. Brand-recommended frequency: 1–2 times daily.

5

Always SPF in the AM

Niacid is not photosensitizing, but UV exposure will quickly undo any progress on pigmentation. Use SPF 30+ daily.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You have post-inflammatory erythema (red marks) or hyperpigmentation (brown marks) from acne.
  • Your skin tone looks dull, uneven or sun-damaged.
  • Your barrier feels compromised, dehydrated or reactive.
  • You want a fragrance-free, alcohol-free, gentle treatment.
  • You're looking for a non-photosensitizing alternative to retinol or strong AHAs.

Consider alternatives if:

  • You have confirmed fungal acne / malassezia folliculitis.
  • You expect a treatment that physically "raises" deep atrophic ice-pick or boxcar scars (no topical can do this).
  • You have a serious salicylate or aspirin allergy (contains willow bark).
  • You're vegan and avoid snail-derived ingredients.
  • You're pregnant or breastfeeding without OB/GYN approval.
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Oil-free, lightweight texture. Galactomyces and niacinamide help regulate sebum and refine the look of pores.

Dry Skin
Good

Hydrating with snail mucin, glycerin and HA, but follow with a richer moisturizer to seal in humectants.

Combination
Excellent

Balances oil zones while delivering moisture to drier areas — ideal middle-ground formula.

Sensitive
Good

Fragrance-free with calming witch hazel and guaiazulene. Patch-test first if you're highly reactive.

Acne-Prone (PIH/PIE)
Excellent

Specifically formulated for post-acne marks. Low comedogenic risk, but skip if you have fungal acne.

Mature Skin
Good

Niacinamide and peptides support tone, texture and fine-line softening, though it isn't a dedicated anti-aging serum.

08

Results timeline

3–6 MONTHS
Day 1

Brightness boost overnight

Brand reports a visible increase in radiance from the first application thanks to high-concentration galactomyces.

~70% noticed
Days 3–7

Marks & redness start fading

Post-inflammatory erythema (PIE) and pigmentation visibly soften; texture feels smoother and more even.

~60% noticed
Weeks 4–8

Stronger barrier & tone

Cumulative repair: fewer breakouts on average, better hydration retention, more uniform skin tone.

~55% noticed
3–6 months

Long-term remodeling

With consistent SPF use, dark spots significantly fade and overall skin clarity is markedly improved.

~45% noticed
09

Ratings by platform

627+ REVIEWS
Amazon
4.1
Avg Rating
500+
Listings & Reviews
Main complaint: small bottle for the price; results on deep atrophic scars are limited.
Trustpilot (Slurp.co.kr)
3.4
Avg Rating
27+
Reviews
Main complaint: shipping & fulfillment delays during periods when the dispensary was offline.
Picky Community
4.3
Avg Rating
100+
Reviews
Main complaint: pricey for the size; some prefer more aggressive actives.
SkinSort / Incidecoder
4.2
Community Rating
95+
Routines using it
Main complaint: not fungal-acne safe due to galactomyces ferment.
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Visible fading of post-acne red marks and brown spots in 1–2 weeks.
  • Lightweight oil-free texture that absorbs almost instantly.
  • Synergistic combo: niacinamide + tranexamic acid + snail mucin in one bottle.
  • Free of fragrance, alcohol, parabens, sulfates and silicones.
  • Cruelty-free and 91% top-allergen-free per SkinSAFE.
  • Doesn't increase sun sensitivity — compatible with most actives.

Criticized

  • Premium price for a 30 ml bottle; perceived as expensive vs. drugstore niacinamide serums.
  • Will not "raise" deep atrophic acne scars despite some marketing implications.
  • Contains snail mucin — not vegan-friendly.
  • Galactomyces ferment makes it unsuitable for fungal-acne-prone skin.
  • Past shipping & stock issues reported on the brand's direct site.
  • Contains willow bark — caution for those with salicylate sensitivities.
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
82% Match
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
~$6.50
Budget Pick

Far higher niacinamide concentration at a fraction of the price, but lacks tranexamic acid, snail mucin, peptides and ferments. Great as a first dupe for tone & pores; weaker on PIH.

86% Match
Glow Deep Serum: Rice + Arbutin
~$17.00
Similar Profile

Same K-beauty pigmentation logic with rice ferment + alpha arbutin in place of galactomyces + tranexamic acid. Lighter on actives but very gentle and well-priced.

74% Match
Galactomyces Pure Vitamin C Glow Toner
~$22.00
Similar Profile

Built around galactomyces ferment with added vitamin C for brightening. Toner format, larger size, but no tranexamic acid or peptide complex.

81% Match
Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
~$25.00
Similar Profile

96% snail secretion focuses on barrier repair and post-acne healing. Less targeted at hyperpigmentation, but excellent companion product or stand-alone alternative.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
Facial Treatment Essence (Pitera Essence)
Hero Active ~90% Pitera (Galactomyces ferment)
Snail Mucin No
Tranexamic Acid No
Fragrance Light, characteristic ferment scent
Best for Anti-aging, radiance, luxury hydration
Tranexamic Topical Acid 5%
Hero Active 5% Tranexamic Acid + Niacinamide + Kojic Acid
Snail Mucin No
Galactomyces No
Fragrance Fragrance-free
Best for Stubborn melasma & dark spots on a budget
Discoloration Correcting Serum
Hero Active Tranexamic Acid + Niacinamide + Sea Daffodil
Snail Mucin No
Peptides / Ferment No
Fragrance Fragrance-free
Best for Affordable PIH & dark-spot correction
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight; tightly close after each use.

Packaging

Glass bottle with dropper applicator

Travel Friendly

Yes — 30 ml is well under the 100 ml carry-on liquid limit.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Niacid does not contain retinoids, hydroquinone, salicylic acid at exfoliating levels, or chemical sunscreens — the ingredients usually flagged in pregnancy. However, it does contain tranexamic acid and ferments, and willow bark naturally contains salicin. Most dermatologists consider topical niacinamide and snail mucin low-risk, but tranexamic acid in pregnancy is debated. Always consult your OB/GYN before adding any active treatment during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

No. Niacid is not considered fungal-acne safe. Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate makes up roughly 60% of the formula, and yeast ferments are widely flagged as potential triggers for malassezia overgrowth. If you've been diagnosed with fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis, choose a fungal-acne-safe niacinamide or tranexamic acid serum instead.

Yes. Niacinamide and tranexamic acid pair well with most actives — they don't conflict with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, or BHAs. A common approach is to use vitamin C or AHA/BHA earlier in the routine, then layer Niacid afterwards for barrier support and pigmentation control. If you're new to actives, alternate days at first to monitor tolerance.

Niacid suits combination, oily, normal, and post-acne / scarred skin most strongly. Sensitive skin generally tolerates it well thanks to the fragrance-free formula and soothing botanicals. Dry skin will benefit too, but should layer a richer moisturizer on top. The two main groups it doesn't suit are fungal-acne-prone skin and people with severe salicylate allergies.

The brand reports a brightness boost overnight, with visible fading of red marks and pigmentation typically beginning between days 3 and 7. For more substantial change in PIH and overall tone, expect 4–8 weeks of consistent use. Deeper pigmentation and long-standing dark spots usually need 3–6 months alongside daily SPF.

Apply Niacid right after cleansing (and toning, if you tone) on slightly damp skin, before heavier serums and moisturizers. Use 3 drops to start and gradually increase to 6 drops or half a dropper. AM routine: cleanser → toner → Niacid → moisturizer → SPF. PM routine: cleanser → toner → Niacid → other treatments → moisturizer.

Niacid has a low comedogenic risk (rated approximately 1 out of 5). The formula is oil-free, lightweight, and contains pore-friendly ingredients like niacinamide and witch hazel. The main caveat is that ferments can trigger malassezia-driven breakouts in fungal-acne-prone individuals — these look like small, uniform itchy bumps and aren't true comedonal acne. For typical bacterial acne and clogged pores, Niacid is generally well-tolerated.

The Period After Opening (PAO) is approximately 12 months. Store the bottle tightly closed in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight, and avoid contaminating the dropper by touching it directly to the skin. With normal use of 3–6 drops once or twice daily, a 30 ml bottle typically lasts 2–3 months.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.3 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: Slurp Niacid is a thoughtfully built K-beauty treatment serum that brings together three evidence-backed pigmentation fighters — niacinamide, tranexamic acid and a high concentration of galactomyces ferment — plus snail mucin and a proprietary peptide complex. It excels at fading post-acne marks, brightening dull tone and reinforcing a compromised barrier, all in a fragrance-free, oil-free format that doesn't increase sun sensitivity. It is not a miracle for deep atrophic scars, isn't fungal-acne safe, and sits at a premium price point for the bottle size. For anyone targeting PIH, PIE and uneven tone with a gentle, layer-friendly serum, it is one of the more interesting all-in-one options on the market.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 3 ingredient(s):
Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate Snail Secretion Filtrate Niacinamide
brightening Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Niacinamide
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Snail Secretion Filtrate Sodium Hyaluronate Niacinamide
ache Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
3
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
1
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
44% 55%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 18 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
0 Unknown
Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate
Humectant
anti-aging Anti-Aging
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
1 A
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
Hydrating
2 A
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
brightening Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
1 A
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
Hydrating
0 Unknown
Illicium Verum Fruit Extract
Perfuming, Skin Conditioning
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS