Niacinamide Cleansing Gelée 3%
Niacinamide Cleansing Gelée 3%
Product Description
An essence-like gel cleanser formulated with 3% niacinamide (Vitamin B3) that gently dissolves makeup, oil, and impurities while targeting the look of dark spots and uneven texture. Enriched with Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (Vitamin C), and Tocopherol (Vitamin E) — this pH-balanced cleanser leaves skin feeling softer, smoother, and balanced, never dry or stripped. Clinically proven to deliver immediate and all-day oil control.
✨ Texture & Feel
Brightens While You Cleanse
3% clinical-grade Niacinamide targets the look of dark spots and uneven skin tone every time you wash your face — turning your cleanse into active skincare.
Hydrates, Never Strips
Sodium Hyaluronate replenishes moisture during cleansing so skin feels plump and comfortable after rinsing — not tight or dry like traditional foaming cleansers.
Oil-Control Clinically Proven
In a 1-day clinical study, 100% of subjects showed immediate and all-day oil control, making this a standout choice for oily and combination skin types.
Doubles as a Quick Mask
Apply and leave on for 5 minutes before rinsing to supercharge the niacinamide benefits — an easy multi-tasking step for busy routines.
Works on Dry or Damp Skin
Unique gel-gelée texture emulsifies beautifully on both dry and damp skin, making it versatile for oil-cleansing style application or a quick rinse-off cleanse.
Antioxidant-Powered Formula
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (stable Vitamin C) and Tocopherol (Vitamin E) add antioxidant protection, helping to shield skin from environmental stressors at every wash.
🛡️ Safety & Compatibility
Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All 15 ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Always consult your OB-GYN if in doubt.
Contains no fatty acid esters, fermented ingredients, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. Confirmed safe for fungal acne-prone skin by multiple ingredient analysis platforms.
No pore-clogging oils or heavy waxes. Xanthan Gum and Glycerin — both rated 0 comedogenicity — are the primary thickening agents. Safe for acne-prone skin.
Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and gluten-free. Dermatologist tested. Gentle amino-acid-based surfactants (Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate) minimize irritation risk vs. traditional sulfate cleansers.
As a rinse-off cleanser at pH 5.5–6.5, it is compatible with retinol and retinoids. Can be used as the first step before applying actives in your evening routine.
Decyl Glucoside is a mild plant-derived surfactant but can occasionally trigger contact dermatitis in very sensitive individuals. Patch test recommended for first-time use.
Niacinamide and Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate can increase skin sensitivity to UV exposure. Always apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ as the last step of your morning routine.
No animal-derived ingredients. Naturium is a certified cruelty-free brand. This product is also reef-safe — free from oxybenzone and other environmentally harmful compounds.
🔬 Ingredient Breakdown
⚡ Niacinamide 3% Proven
High-purity Vitamin B3 at a clinically effective 3% concentration. Works by converting to NAD (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) in skin cells — the essential coenzyme that powers barrier repair, regulates sebum, fades hyperpigmentation, and reduces the appearance of pores.
- Barrier Strengthening: Increases ceramide synthesis; effective from as low as 2% concentration.
- Oil Regulation: Clinically proven to reduce sebum production, especially at 2–5%.
- Hyperpigmentation: Inhibits melanosome transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes, visibly fading dark spots.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces redness and supports skin conditions including acne, rosacea, and atopic dermatitis.
💧 Sodium Hyaluronate trace Proven
The sodium salt form of Hyaluronic Acid. With lower molecular weight than native HA, it penetrates more effectively into the upper layers of skin to attract and retain moisture, creating a plumping, smoothing effect even in a rinse-off cleanser.
- Humectant: Can hold up to 1,000x its weight in water, preventing moisture loss during cleansing.
- Skin-Identical: Naturally present in skin's extracellular matrix — extremely well tolerated.
- Comedogenicity: Rated 0/5 — zero pore-clogging risk.
🍊 Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (Vitamin C) trace Promising
A water-soluble, highly stable derivative of L-Ascorbic Acid. Unlike pure Vitamin C, it does not oxidize rapidly, making it ideal for formulas that need a longer shelf life. Provides antioxidant protection and may help with acne prevention.
- Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals from UV and pollution exposure.
- Acne: Shown in-vitro and in-vivo efficacy in prevention and treatment of acne vulgaris.
- Stability: Far more stable than L-Ascorbic Acid; less effective at collagen stimulation but more practical in formulation.
🌿 Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate surfactant Proven
The primary cleansing agent in this formula — an amino-acid-derived surfactant from coconut oil. Significantly milder than SLS/SLES sulfates, it effectively removes oil and makeup without disrupting the skin's natural moisture barrier or altering pH significantly.
- Mildness: Among the gentlest anionic surfactants; ideal for daily use including on sensitive skin.
- Biodegradable: Vegetable (coconut) origin, environmentally friendly.
- pH Compatible: Works optimally in pH 5.5–6.5 range — matching skin's natural pH.
🫧 Glycerin humectant Proven
One of the most effective and well-studied humectants in skincare. Naturally present in the skin, it attracts moisture from the air and deeper skin layers to the surface, preventing the tight, stripped feeling often associated with cleansing.
- Hydration: 2016 study found glycerin more effective as a humectant than AHAs and Hyaluronic Acid.
- Barrier support: Keeps skin lipids in healthy liquid crystal state, protecting against irritation.
- Effective from: Even 3% concentration; benefits increase up to 20–40% for very dry skin.
🌱 Myrciaria Dubia (Camu Camu) Fruit Extract trace Promising
Extract from the Amazonian camu camu fruit, one of nature's richest sources of Vitamin C. Used in skincare as a natural antioxidant and brightening booster, though research on topical efficacy compared to synthetic actives is still emerging.
- Antioxidant: May help neutralize free radicals and support a more even skin tone.
- Natural Vitamin C Source: Complements Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate as an antioxidant-boosting ingredient.
15 ingredients
Aqua, Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Niacinamide, Glycerin, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Decyl Glucoside, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Hyaluronate, Myrciaria Dubia Fruit Extract, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Phenoxyethanol, Citric Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Potassium Sorbate, Tocopherol
🔄 Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use as Step 1 in both AM and PM routines. For a more intensive treatment, leave on for 5 minutes as a quick mask before rinsing.
📝 How to Use
Pump & Apply
Dispense 2–3 pumps of the gelée directly onto dry or damp fingertips. You do not need much — the formula is highly concentrated and lathers efficiently.
Massage & Emulsify
Gently massage onto your face in circular motions for 30–60 seconds. The gel will emulsify into a soft, cushiony lather, lifting makeup, sunscreen, oil, and debris.
Optional Mask Step
For an extra niacinamide boost, leave the cleanser on skin for 5 minutes before rinsing. This supercharges brightening and oil-control benefits on days when you need extra care.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse off completely with lukewarm water. Pat skin dry gently with a clean towel. Follow with your toner, serum, and moisturizer while skin is still slightly damp.
Apply SPF in the Morning
Both Niacinamide and Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate make skin more photosensitive. Always finish your AM routine with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ to protect brightening results.
👤 Who Is It For?
✅ Perfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin seeking a gentle daily cleanser
- You want to address dark spots and uneven texture starting at the cleansing step
- You prefer fragrance-free, minimal-ingredient formulas
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe active cleanser
- You are dealing with fungal acne or Malassezia-related breakouts
- You want clinical results at an affordable price point
- You like a cleanser that can double as a 5-minute mask
❌ Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin that needs a rich, cream-based cleanser
- You wear heavy, waterproof makeup (a dedicated makeup remover or oil cleanser is recommended first)
- You are allergic to Decyl Glucoside or coconut-derived surfactants
- You prefer a bar cleanser or micellar water format
- You need a higher concentration of Niacinamide (5–10%) — use a dedicated serum instead
🎯 Skin Type Compatibility
Clinically proven all-day oil control. Niacinamide regulates sebum production without over-drying. The lightweight gel texture absorbs impurities efficiently without leaving any residue or greasiness.
Balances oily T-zone while maintaining hydration in drier cheek areas. Niacinamide and Glycerin work in tandem to normalize skin across different face zones.
Non-comedogenic (0/5 rating), fungal acne safe, and free of pore-clogging ingredients. Niacinamide's anti-inflammatory properties reduce redness and help prevent new breakouts.
Fragrance-free and formulated with gentle amino-acid surfactants. Suitable for most sensitive skin types. Patch test recommended before first use due to Decyl Glucoside, which can occasionally trigger reactions.
Leaves skin clean, balanced, and lightly hydrated. The multi-active formula delivers preventative brightening and antioxidant protection as part of a daily maintenance routine.
While Glycerin and Sodium Hyaluronate provide some moisture retention, some users with very dry skin find daily use slightly drying. A richer cream cleanser may be more suitable. Best used max once daily for dry skin types.
📈 Results Timeline
Immediate Oil Control & Soft Skin
From first use, skin feels cleaner, softer, and more balanced. The gel lathers satisfyingly without stripping. Oil-control effects are measurable on day one according to clinical data.
100% in clinical studyPore Appearance & Texture Improvement
With consistent use, pores begin to appear tighter and skin texture smoother. Niacinamide's sebum-regulating action starts to noticeably reduce shine throughout the day.
~70% of reviewers noticeReduced Breakouts & Redness
Niacinamide's anti-inflammatory effects become more visible: fewer new breakouts, calmer skin, and reduced redness for acne-prone users. Skin tone begins to look more even.
~65% of reviewers noticeVisible Brightening & Dark Spot Fading
With continued use, post-acne marks and dark spots begin to fade. Skin looks visibly brighter and more radiant. Hyperpigmentation from sun damage starts to soften noticeably.
~55% of reviewers notice⭐ Ratings by Platform
⚖️ Pros & Cons
✅ Praised
- Highly effective at controlling shine and oiliness all day
- Leaves skin feeling soft and hydrated, not stripped
- Versatile — works on dry and damp skin, doubles as a mask
- Fragrance-free, suitable for sensitive and reactive skin
- Clean, minimal 15-ingredient formula
- Excellent value for money (7.1 oz lasts months)
- Clinically proven results with dermatologist testing
- Pregnancy safe, fungal acne safe, non-comedogenic
❌ Criticized
- Only 3% niacinamide — may not be enough for stubborn hyperpigmentation
- Can feel slightly drying for very dry skin types used twice daily
- Pump dispenser can clog or dispense excess product
- Does not remove heavy waterproof makeup without pre-cleansing
- Niacinamide brightening results take 4–8 weeks to become visible
- Camu Camu extract at trace levels adds minimal functional benefit
💰 Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Contains niacinamide as a key active in a gentle gel format. More basic formula without the Vitamin C, Camu Camu, or Tocopherol, but delivers similar cleansing and oil-balancing results at a lower price point. Slightly thinner texture.
Contains Niacinamide alongside ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Stronger foaming formula suited for oily/normal skin. Lacks Vitamin C actives and Camu Camu. Slightly higher pH. Widely available and dermatologist recommended.
Contains Niacinamide and is designed for sensitive, oily-to-combination skin. Similar pH range and gentle surfactant approach. No Vitamin C actives or antioxidant complex. Excellent reputation for reactive skin but fewer active benefits per cleanse.
🔄 Comparison with Competitors
Naturium Niacinamide Cleansing Gelée 3% ⭐ Featured
~$18.00 / 210 mLPaula's Choice Pore Normalizing Cleanser
~$22.00 / 190 mLGood Molecules Niacinamide Brightening Toner Cleanser
~$12.00 / 120 mLCetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
~$16.99 / 250 mL📦 Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. Preserved with Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, and Potassium Sorbate for reliable stability throughout use.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid extreme heat which can degrade Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate and Tocopherol over time.
Pump bottle dispenser (210 mL full size; 60 mL travel size available). The pump format limits air and contamination exposure, supporting ingredient stability.
Travel size (2 oz / 60 mL) available and TSA-compliant. Full size (7.1 oz / 210 mL) exceeds the 100 mL carry-on limit — pack in checked luggage or use the travel size for trips.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — this cleanser is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens (the key ingredients to avoid during pregnancy). All 15 ingredients are generally recognized as safe. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, and amino-acid-derived surfactants are all pregnancy-friendly. As always, consult your OB-GYN or midwife before introducing new skincare products during pregnancy.
Yes — this cleanser is confirmed fungal acne safe. It contains no fatty acid esters, fermented ingredients, polysorbates, or other compounds that feed Malassezia yeast. The surfactants (Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Decyl Glucoside, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate) are all safe for fungal acne-prone skin. Niacinamide's anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties can actually help reduce the conditions that promote fungal breakouts. This is verified by multiple ingredient analysis platforms including Skinsort and INCIDecoder.
Absolutely — as a rinse-off cleanser, this product is fully compatible with all major actives including retinol, Vitamin C serums, AHAs (glycolic/lactic acid), and BHAs (salicylic acid). The cleanser is used first and rinsed off, so there is no direct interaction with leave-on actives. In fact, cleansing with niacinamide before applying a retinol or AHA treatment helps prime skin and may reduce irritation. The pH of 5.5–6.5 is appropriate for skin that will subsequently receive exfoliating acids. Always apply SPF the next morning when using AHA/BHA treatments.
This cleanser is ideal for oily, combination, normal, and acne-prone skin types. Clinically proven to deliver all-day oil control, it is particularly well-loved by oily skin users who want to tackle shine and dark spots simultaneously. It is also excellent for those with fungal acne, as it is 100% Malassezia-safe. Sensitive skin types typically do well with this formula due to its fragrance-free, gentle surfactant base — though a patch test is recommended. Very dry or dehydrated skin types may prefer a cream-based cleanser, or should limit use to once daily and follow with a rich moisturizer.
Oil control and softness improvements are noticeable from the very first use — this is backed by clinical data showing 100% of subjects experienced immediate and all-day oil control. Pore-minimizing effects typically become visible within 1–2 weeks of consistent use. Reduction in breakouts and redness generally appears within 3–4 weeks. For visible brightening and dark spot fading, allow 4–8 weeks of daily use. For best results, pair this cleanser with a dedicated Niacinamide serum (5–10%) and broad-spectrum SPF.
This cleanser is always Step 1 of both your morning and evening routines. In the morning, follow with toner/essence, serum, moisturizer, and SPF. In the evening, if you wear heavy makeup or SPF, consider using a dedicated micellar water or oil cleanser first (double cleanse), then use this as your second cleanse. After cleansing, apply your actives (retinol, acids, Vitamin C serum) while skin is slightly damp for better absorption. For the mask step, apply 2–3 pumps, leave on for 5 minutes, then rinse — this can be done 2–3 times per week.
No — this cleanser is non-comedogenic with a comedogenic rating of 0/5. The formula contains no oils, heavy waxes, or pore-blocking emollients. All key thickening and emulsifying ingredients (Xanthan Gum, Glycerin) have a comedogenicity rating of 0. Additionally, Niacinamide is known to reduce the formation of comedones and regulate sebum production. This product is safe for acne-prone and breakout-prone skin types. It is also free from silicones that can occasionally trap debris in pores.
The period after opening (PAO) is 12 months. The 7.1 oz / 210 mL full-size bottle typically lasts 3–5 months with twice-daily use of 2–3 pumps, making it excellent value for money. The formula is preserved with a combination of Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, and Potassium Sorbate — a modern, effective preservation system. Store in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight or heat to maintain the stability of Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate and Tocopherol throughout the product's lifespan.
Verdict: The Naturium Niacinamide Cleansing Gelée 3% punches well above its price point. It delivers a genuinely multi-functional cleansing experience — effective makeup removal, clinically proven oil control, and active brightening ingredients (Niacinamide, Vitamin C, Vitamin E) all in one step. The minimal 15-ingredient formula, fragrance-free profile, and impressive safety credentials (pregnancy safe, fungal acne safe, comedogenic rating 0/5) make it one of the most well-rounded daily cleansers available. The only reason it doesn't score a perfect 5 is that very dry skin types may find it slightly stripping with twice-daily use, and those specifically targeting hyperpigmentation will benefit from pairing it with a higher-concentration Niacinamide serum. For oily, combination, acne-prone, or brightening-focused routines, this is a near-perfect cleanser.
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 «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.
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 |
Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate
Surfactant, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 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 |
Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate
Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting, Hydrotrope, Skin Conditioning
|
|

