Niacinamide Serum
Niacinamide Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, water-based serum featuring niacinamide (Vitamin B3) to help reduce the appearance of oiliness, minimize pores, and create a more balanced, clearer-looking complexion while soothing redness and hydrating the skin.
Pore Minimizing
Niacinamide helps regulate sebum production and visibly reduces the appearance of enlarged pores over time.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPore Minimizing
Niacinamide helps regulate sebum production and visibly reduces the appearance of enlarged pores over time.
Redness Reducing
Contains soothing ingredients like dipotassium glycyrrhizate from licorice root and bisabolol to calm irritated skin.
Skin Brightening
Helps even out skin tone and reduce the appearance of dark spots and post-acne marks with consistent use.
Barrier Support
Glycerin and aloe vera work together to hydrate and strengthen the skin's natural moisture barrier.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENiacinamide is FDA-approved and considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, or other concerning ingredients.
Contains PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil which may potentially feed malassezia yeast. Patch test recommended for fungal acne sufferers.
Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. Formula is lightweight and unlikely to clog pores for most skin types.
Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and formulated with soothing ingredients. Low irritation potential according to ingredient analysis.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSNiacinamide (Vitamin B3) 4-5%Proven
A multi-tasking powerhouse that helps reduce the appearance of pores, regulate sebum production, even skin tone, reduce redness, and strengthen the skin barrier. Works well for almost all skin types.
- Clinical Evidence: Studies show 2% niacinamide improves skin barrier function; 4-5% concentration helps with acne and sebum control.
- Mechanism: Converts to NAD in the skin, supporting cellular energy and repair processes.
- Results Timeline: Visible improvements typically seen within 4-8 weeks of consistent use.
Glycerin HighProven
One of the most effective humectant ingredients, naturally present in skin. Attracts water to the upper layer of skin, providing deep hydration without greasiness.
- Function: Draws moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers to hydrate the stratum corneum.
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 - Non-comedogenic and suitable for all skin types.
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate LowProven
Derived from licorice root, this ingredient provides powerful anti-inflammatory and soothing benefits. Also helps regulate sebum production.
- Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, sebum-regulating, and skin-soothing properties.
- Research: Studies show effectiveness in calming redness and irritation.
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice LowTraditional
A classic soothing ingredient traditionally used for treating sunburns and inflammation. Contains natural humectants for hydration.
- Function: Provides soothing, anti-inflammatory, and mild hydrating benefits.
Bisabolol LowProven
A chamomile-derived ingredient known for its gentle, anti-inflammatory, and skin-soothing properties. Excellent for sensitive and reactive skin.
- Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and wound-healing properties.
- Suitability: Ideal for sensitive and irritation-prone skin.
17 ingredients
Water (Aqua), Glycerin, Niacinamide, PEG-12 Dimethicone, Phenoxyethanol, PPG-26-Buteth-26, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Chlorphenesin, Xanthan Gum, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Bisabolol, Disodium EDTA, Maltodextrin, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after cleansing and toning, before heavier creams and moisturizers. Can be used both AM and PM.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with clean, freshly washed skin. Pat dry gently or apply to slightly damp skin for better absorption.
Dispense 2-3 Pumps
Press the pump to dispense a small amount of serum onto your fingertips. A little goes a long way.
Apply & Pat Gently
Smooth the serum over your face and neck, avoiding the eye area. Pat gently to encourage absorption.
Follow With Moisturizer
Wait 30-60 seconds for the serum to absorb, then apply your favorite moisturizer to lock in benefits.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin with enlarged pores
- You're looking for an affordable, no-frills niacinamide serum
- You want to reduce excess shine and balance oil production
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe option
- You prefer fragrance-free, gentle formulations
- You're new to niacinamide and want a moderate concentration
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia) - check ingredients carefully
- You want a higher 10% niacinamide concentration
- You prefer luxury textures and elegant packaging
- You need additional benefits like zinc or hyaluronic acid
- You have very dry skin and need more hydrating ingredients
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match! Lightweight formula helps regulate sebum without adding shine. Helps minimize pore appearance.
Balances oily T-zone while being gentle enough for drier areas. Great all-rounder for combination skin.
Good for maintenance and prevention. Helps keep skin balanced and supports overall skin health.
May feel slightly drying on its own. Layer with a hydrating toner and follow with a rich moisturizer.
Fragrance-free with soothing ingredients. The moderate niacinamide concentration is less likely to irritate than 10% formulas.
Non-comedogenic formula helps reduce inflammation and regulate oil. However, those with fungal acne should patch test first.
Results timeline
WEEK 12+Initial Hydration & Comfort
Skin feels more hydrated and comfortable. You may notice a slight reduction in excess shine throughout the day. Some initial stickiness may occur but subsides with continued use.
60% noticed improved skin textureOil Balance & Calmer Skin
Sebum production starts to regulate. Skin appears less shiny and more balanced. Redness and irritation may be visibly reduced. Pores may begin to look less prominent.
70% noticed reduced oilinessVisible Pore Refinement
Noticeable improvement in pore appearance. Skin tone begins to even out. Post-acne marks may start to fade. Overall skin looks clearer and more refined.
75% saw improved pore appearanceCumulative Benefits
Maximum benefits achieved with consistent use. Skin barrier is strengthened. Continued improvement in skin clarity, texture, and tone. Best results with daily AM and PM application.
80% experienced overall skin improvementRatings by platform
75+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Excellent value for money (under £5)
- Fragrance-free and gentle formula
- Suitable for pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Helps reduce oiliness and balance skin
- Contains soothing ingredients like licorice and aloe
- Good starter product for niacinamide beginners
- Works well when paired with Boots Salicylic Acid Serum
Criticized
- Initial stickiness before absorption
- Lower niacinamide concentration than competitors (4-5% vs 10%)
- Pump packaging preferred over dropper by some
- May sting on broken or irritated skin
- Not fully fungal acne safe due to PEG ingredients
- Results may be more subtle compared to higher concentration serums
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Higher 10% niacinamide concentration plus zinc for extra oil control. More popular but may irritate sensitive skin. Fungal acne safe formula.
10% niacinamide with 1% hyaluronic acid for added hydration. Better for dry skin types. More elegant texture that absorbs quickly.
Similar formula to The Ordinary at a comparable price point. Good option if availability is an issue with other brands.
10% niacinamide with a smooth, non-pilling texture. Popular alternative with great reviews for sensitive skin compatibility.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
La Roche-Posay Pure Niacinamide 10
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check the PAO symbol on packaging for exact period.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. No refrigeration required but can extend freshness.
Pump bottle in opaque plastic packaging. Hygienic dispensing prevents contamination.
Yes, 30ml is under the 100ml liquid limit for carry-on luggage. Compact size fits easily in travel bags.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this serum is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is FDA-approved and has no known risks for pregnant or nursing mothers when used topically. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens - ingredients typically avoided during pregnancy. However, always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new skincare product.
This serum requires caution for those with fungal acne. It contains PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, which may potentially feed malassezia yeast according to some analyses. If you have fungal acne, consider The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% as a fungal acne safe alternative, or patch test this serum on a small area first before full application.
Niacinamide is generally compatible with most skincare actives. You can use it with retinol (apply niacinamide first, wait, then retinol), hyaluronic acid, and peptides without issue. While older advice suggested avoiding Vitamin C combinations, recent research shows they can be used together safely. For AHA/BHA, you can use them in the same routine - apply acids first, wait for absorption, then apply niacinamide. If you experience irritation, alternate products between AM and PM routines.
This serum works best for oily and combination skin types due to its oil-regulating properties. The lightweight, water-based formula is excellent for those dealing with enlarged pores, excess shine, and mild breakouts. It's also suitable for normal and sensitive skin types. Those with very dry skin may want to pair it with hydrating products or choose a niacinamide serum with added hyaluronic acid like The INKEY List version.
Results vary by individual, but most users notice initial improvements within 2-4 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Oil regulation and reduced shine are often noticed first (1-2 weeks). Visible pore refinement typically takes 6-8 weeks. For skin tone evening and post-acne mark fading, expect 8-12 weeks of consistent use. Maximum benefits are achieved with continued long-term use.
Apply this serum after cleansing and toning, but before heavier treatments, moisturizers, and sunscreen. The general order is: Cleanser → Toner → This Serum → Other Treatments/Serums → Eye Cream → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM only). Apply to slightly damp skin for better absorption. Can be used both morning and evening.
No, this serum has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5, meaning it's unlikely to clog pores for most skin types. The formula is water-based and lightweight. Niacinamide itself is non-comedogenic and actually helps to minimize pore appearance and regulate sebum. However, everyone's skin is different, so if you're prone to breakouts, introduce it gradually and monitor your skin's response.
The serum has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. This means it should be used within 12 months of first opening for optimal effectiveness and safety. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The pump packaging helps maintain hygiene and extends product freshness compared to dropper bottles. At typical usage (2-3 pumps twice daily), a 30ml bottle should last approximately 2-3 months.
Verdict: Boots Niacinamide Serum is an excellent budget-friendly option for those new to niacinamide or looking for a gentle, pregnancy-safe formula. While the concentration is lower than competitors like The Ordinary (4-5% vs 10%), this makes it ideal for sensitive skin and niacinamide beginners. The fragrance-free formula with added soothing ingredients offers good value at under £5. However, if you want maximum pore-minimizing and oil-control benefits, consider upgrading to a 10% niacinamide formula. Those with fungal acne should opt for The Ordinary instead due to the PEG ingredients in this formula.
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 2 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
PEG-12 Dimethicone
Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 4 |
Phenoxyethanol
Fragrance, Preservative
|
|
|
| 2 |
PPG-26-Buteth-26
Skin Conditioning, Surfactant, Fragrance, Emulsifying, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer
Viscosity Controlling
|
|