Niacinamide Serum
Niacinamide Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, fast-absorbing serum formulated with an optimal 5% niacinamide concentration to strengthen the skin barrier, refine pores, and even skin tone. Enhanced with hyaluronic acid, agarikon mushroom extract, and betaine for deep hydration and visible results in just 3-4 weeks.
Pore Refinement
Clinical studies show 42% reduction in pore visibility with regular use of 5% niacinamide.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPore Refinement
Clinical studies show 42% reduction in pore visibility with regular use of 5% niacinamide.
Even Skin Tone
68% reduction in dark spots and 50% improvement in uneven skin tone and redness.
Barrier Strength
70% improvement in skin barrier strength and fullness, protecting against environmental stressors.
Deep Hydration
Hyaluronic acid and betaine provide multi-level hydration and moisture retention.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENiacinamide (Vitamin B3) is FDA-approved and considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone.
Formula contains no ferments, problematic fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. All ingredients are malassezia-safe.
Comedogenic rating of 0/5. Lightweight, oil-free formula won't clog pores or cause breakouts.
Fragrance-free, paraben-free formula with soothing allantoin. 5% concentration is optimal for sensitive skin tolerance.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSNiacinamide (Vitamin B3) 5%Proven
A multi-tasking vitamin that regulates sebum production, minimizes pores, strengthens the skin barrier, and reduces hyperpigmentation. The 5% concentration is clinically proven effective without causing irritation.
- Clinical Evidence: Studies show 2-5% niacinamide is effective for barrier support, while 4-6% helps with acne and sebum control.
- Key Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, brightening, and barrier-strengthening properties.
- Safe for: All skin types including sensitive, pregnant, and acne-prone skin.
Agarikon Mushroom Extract (Fomes Officinalis) 0.5-5%Promising
A unique medicinal mushroom extract that reduces pores, tightens skin, and regulates sebum production. Used for millennia for its skin-beneficial properties.
- Mechanism: Contains agaric acid which effectively regulates sebum and refines skin texture.
- Clinical Studies: Optimal results achieved at 0.5-5% concentration for pore refinement.
Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid)Proven
A powerful humectant that attracts and holds up to 1000x its weight in water, providing intense hydration and plumping the skin.
- Function: Attracts moisture from the environment and binds it to the skin.
- Benefits: Reduces fine lines, improves skin elasticity, and maintains hydration levels.
Betaine (Sugar Beet Extract)Proven
A natural amino acid derivative from sugar beets with excellent moisturizing and skin-protecting properties.
- Properties: Osmoprotectant that helps cells retain water and protects against environmental stress.
- Benefits: Enhances skin barrier, provides lasting hydration without stickiness.
AllantoinProven
A soothing and healing ingredient derived from comfrey root that calms irritation and promotes skin repair.
- Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, wound healing, and skin-softening properties.
- Ideal for: Sensitive, irritated, or compromised skin.
13 ingredients
Aqua, Niacinamide, Pentylene Glycol, Betaine, C15-19 Alkane, Glycerin, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Propanediol, Fomes Officinalis Extract, Allantoin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glyceryl Caprylate, Sodium Gluconate.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after water-based products and before heavier creams. Use both morning and evening for best results.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Skin
Start with a freshly cleansed face. Pat dry or leave slightly damp for better absorption.
Apply Pea-Sized Amount
Dispense a pea-sized amount onto your fingertips. A little goes a long way.
Gently Pat and Massage
Gently dab onto face and neck, then massage with upward and outward motions until fully absorbed.
Wait and Continue Routine
Allow a few minutes for the serum to absorb before applying moisturizer and sunscreen (AM).
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want to minimize enlarged pores
- You have oily or combination skin
- You struggle with uneven skin tone or dark spots
- You want a simple, effective serum with minimal ingredients
- You prefer fragrance-free, vegan skincare
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need safe options
- You have sensitive skin that reacts to high-concentration products
Consider alternatives if:
- You prefer higher niacinamide concentrations (10%+)
- You want added zinc for extra oil control
- You need anti-aging peptides in the same serum
- You prefer products with added vitamin C
- Budget is your primary concern (more affordable options exist)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight gel absorbs instantly, regulates sebum production, and reduces shine without stripping the skin.
Balances oil in T-zone while hydrating dry areas. Non-greasy formula works perfectly across different face zones.
Provides hydration via hyaluronic acid and betaine, but follow with a richer moisturizer for best results.
5% concentration is gentler than 10% formulas. Fragrance-free with soothing allantoin. Well-tolerated by reactive skin.
Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe, and helps regulate sebum. Anti-inflammatory properties calm existing breakouts.
Results timeline
WEEKS 6-8Immediate Hydration & Comfort
Skin feels smoother, more hydrated, and comfortable. Reduced irritation and redness visible for sensitive skin types.
35% noticed smoother textureImproved Texture & Oil Control
Visible reduction in oiliness and shine. Skin texture becomes more refined and even. Pores appear less prominent.
42% reduction in pore visibilityEven Tone & Reduced Dark Spots
Noticeable improvement in skin tone evenness. Dark spots and hyperpigmentation begin to fade. Skin looks more radiant.
68% reduction in dark spotsMaximum Barrier Strength
Optimal results achieved with consistent use. Skin barrier is visibly stronger, more resilient, and better protected.
70% improvement in barrier strengthRatings by platform
60+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Optimal 5% niacinamide - effective without irritation
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture
- Minimal, clean ingredient list (only 13 ingredients)
- Fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive skin
- Visibly reduces pores and evens skin tone
- Danish Beauty Award winner
- Vegan, cruelty-free, and sustainably made
- Safe for pregnancy, breastfeeding, and fungal acne
Criticized
- Higher price point than budget alternatives like The Ordinary
- No added zinc for extra oil control
- Results require 3-4 weeks of consistent use
- Only available from select retailers
- Some prefer higher niacinamide concentrations (10%)
- Limited availability outside Europe
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Higher 10% niacinamide concentration with added zinc. More affordable but may cause irritation for sensitive skin. Less refined texture, can pill under makeup.
10% niacinamide in a simple, minimal formula. Cruelty-free and fungal acne safe. Similar benefits at a fraction of the price, but fewer supporting ingredients.
10% niacinamide with 1% hyaluronic acid. Affordable option with a thicker texture. Good for oil control but may be too concentrated for some.
Premium formula with 10% niacinamide plus antioxidants, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C. More comprehensive but significantly more expensive.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required.
Frosted glass bottle with pump dispenser for hygienic, precise application.
Yes, 50ml is under the 100ml TSA/EU liquid limit for carry-on luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this serum is completely safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is FDA-approved and considered one of the safest skincare ingredients for expecting and nursing mothers. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or other ingredients to avoid during pregnancy.
Yes, this serum is fungal acne safe. The formula contains no ferments, problematic fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. All 13 ingredients have been verified as malassezia-safe, making it an excellent choice for those prone to fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis.
Yes, niacinamide is highly compatible with most skincare ingredients including retinol, vitamin C, and chemical exfoliants (AHA/BHA). Apply niacinamide first as it's water-based, then follow with other serums. If using with AHA/BHA, you may want to alternate (niacinamide AM, acids PM) if you have sensitive skin.
This serum works for all skin types but is particularly excellent for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin due to its sebum-regulating and pore-minimizing properties. The 5% concentration makes it gentle enough for sensitive skin, while the hyaluronic acid provides hydration for drier skin types.
Initial improvements in hydration and smoothness can be noticed within the first week. Visible pore reduction and oil control typically appear within 2-3 weeks. For significant improvements in skin tone, dark spots, and barrier strength, expect to use the product consistently for 4-8 weeks.
Apply after cleansing and toning, before heavier serums and moisturizers. In the morning: Cleanser → Toner → Niacinamide Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen. In the evening: Cleanser → Toner → Niacinamide Serum → Treatment serums (retinol, etc.) → Moisturizer.
No, this serum has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. The lightweight, oil-free formula is specifically designed not to clog pores. In fact, niacinamide helps regulate sebum production and can actually help reduce congestion and minimize the appearance of pores over time.
The serum has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The 50ml bottle typically lasts 2-3 months with twice-daily use.
Verdict: Jorgobé Niacinamide Serum is a thoughtfully formulated Danish serum that delivers on its promises with an optimal 5% niacinamide concentration. The clean, minimal ingredient list (just 13 ingredients) makes it ideal for sensitive skin while still providing clinically-proven results. The addition of agarikon mushroom extract sets it apart from competitors, and its pregnancy/fungal acne safety makes it universally accessible. While priced higher than budget alternatives like The Ordinary, the superior texture, gentle formulation, and quality ingredients justify the investment for those who prioritize clean beauty and skin tolerance. Best suited for those with oily, combination, or sensitive skin seeking pore refinement, even tone, and barrier support without irritation.
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 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 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
|
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Pentylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Irritation
Dark Spots
|
|
| 0 |
C15-19 Alkane
Solvent
|
|