Niacinamide + Vitamin C Brightening Face Moisturiser
Niacinamide + Vitamin C Brightening Face Moisturiser
Product Description
Product overview
A citrus-scented, silky lightweight cream that melts into skin without clogging pores or leaving greasy residue. Formulated with Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), a stable Vitamin C derivative, Lactic Acid and Peptides to deliver 2x brighter, more even-toned skin in 28 days.
2x Brighter Skin in 28 Days
Clinically shown to deliver visibly brighter and more even-toned skin compared to a basic moisturiser within 4 weeks of daily use.
Texture & feel
SENSORY2x Brighter Skin in 28 Days
Clinically shown to deliver visibly brighter and more even-toned skin compared to a basic moisturiser within 4 weeks of daily use.
Deep Hydration, Zero Residue
Penetrates 10 surface layers deep to reveal a natural radiant glow while Glycerin and Panthenol lock in all-day moisture.
Multi-Active Brightening Complex
Niacinamide, Vitamin C derivative, Lactic Acid and Matrixyl peptide work together to target dark spots, uneven tone and fine lines.
Clean Formula, Trusted Science
Dermatologist tested and free from parabens, phthalates, synthetic dyes and mineral oil. Backed by decades of P&G research.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Lactic Acid (an AHA) in low concentration. While no retinoids or hydroquinone are present, consult your doctor before use during pregnancy as AHAs may increase sun sensitivity.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains Isopropyl Isostearate, Stearic Acid, and Palmitic Acid — esters and fatty acids that can feed Malassezia yeast.
Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. Lightweight formula designed not to clog pores. Suitable for most acne-prone skin types.
Contains Parfum/Fragrance (subtle citrus). Those with very sensitive or reactive skin may want to patch test first.
No retinol or retinoids in this formula. Safe to use alongside retinol products in your routine or as a retinol-free alternative.
Contains Lactic Acid (AHA) which may increase skin's sensitivity to the sun. Always follow with SPF during daytime use.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSNiacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~3-5%Proven
A multi-functional skincare powerhouse that strengthens the skin barrier, reduces the appearance of pores and dark spots, regulates oil production, and improves signs of ageing. Well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin.
- Brightening: At 4-5% concentration, niacinamide is clinically proven to fade dark spots and even skin tone over 8-12 weeks.
- Barrier Support: Increases ceramide synthesis, resulting in a stronger, healthier moisture barrier and improved hydration.
- Anti-Ageing: Helps smooth fine lines and wrinkles, and supports skin cell regeneration (autophagy).
- Oil Control: Helps regulate sebum production, making it beneficial for oily and combination skin.
3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) ~1-2%Promising
A highly stable vitamin C derivative that is soluble in both water and oil. While less potent than pure L-ascorbic acid, it offers excellent stability and does not degrade or oxidise easily in the formula.
- Stability: Unlike pure Vitamin C, this derivative remains effective for the entire shelf life without turning brown or losing potency.
- Skin Brightening: Clinical in-vivo data shows that 2% can improve skin tone and reduce hyperpigmentation over time.
- Antioxidant: Helps neutralise free radicals and protect skin from environmental stressors and UV-induced damage.
Lactic Acid (AHA) ~1-2%Proven
A gentle alpha hydroxy acid that promotes surface cell turnover and exfoliation. Removes dull, dead skin cells to reveal brighter, smoother skin underneath while also acting as a humectant to draw moisture into the skin.
- Exfoliation: Breaks down the bonds between dead surface cells, promoting gentle daily exfoliation and skin renewal.
- Hydration: Unlike many other AHAs, lactic acid has humectant properties that help keep skin moisturised.
- Synergy: Works alongside niacinamide and vitamin C to enhance overall brightening and tone-evening effects.
Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 (Matrixyl) TracePromising
A well-known anti-ageing peptide (commercially known as Matrixyl) that signals the skin to produce more collagen. Helps improve skin firmness, smoothness and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Collagen Support: Stimulates collagen synthesis by mimicking the skin's natural repair signals.
- Anti-Wrinkle: Studies suggest visible reduction in fine line depth with consistent use over 2-4 months.
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) ~0.5-1%Proven
A provitamin of B5 that deeply penetrates the skin and converts to pantothenic acid. Attracts and holds moisture, soothes irritation, and supports the skin's natural repair processes.
- Moisture Retention: Acts as both a humectant and emollient, improving skin hydration and softness.
- Skin Repair: Accelerates the skin's natural healing process and helps strengthen the protective barrier.
24 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Isohexadecane, Niacinamide, Dimethicone, Lactic Acid, Isopropyl Isostearate, Sodium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Stearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Sodium Lactate, Panthenol, Behenyl Alcohol, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Dimethiconol, PEG-100 Stearate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Glucoside, Parfum, Palmitic Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Stearic Acid, Trehalose, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after serums and eye cream. Layer treatments from thinnest to thickest. Always follow with SPF 30+ during the day.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse
Wash away all impurities, dirt, makeup and oils from your face. Pat dry gently with a clean towel.
Treat (Optional)
Apply any toners, serums or eye creams you wish to use. Layer your treatments from thinnest to thickest consistency.
Apply Moisturiser
Take a nickel-sized amount and smooth evenly across your face and neck until fully absorbed. Use both morning and night.
Protect (AM Only)
In the morning, always follow with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen. This product contains AHA which increases sun sensitivity.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want brighter, more radiant skin without heavy textures
- You struggle with uneven skin tone, dullness or dark spots
- You want an affordable drugstore brightening moisturiser
- You prefer a lightweight cream that absorbs quickly
- You enjoy a subtle citrus scent in your skincare
- You want anti-ageing benefits alongside brightening
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) — this is not FA-safe
- You need a fragrance-free formula for very reactive skin
- You want a high-concentration Vitamin C product (10%+)
- You need heavy, rich hydration for very dry or dehydrated skin
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult your doctor first)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight, non-greasy formula absorbs instantly. Niacinamide helps regulate sebum production and minimise pore appearance.
Provides solid hydration with glycerin and panthenol, but very dry skin may need an additional heavier moisturiser or facial oil layered on top.
Balances well across different face zones. Hydrates dry areas without adding shine to the T-zone. Ideal lightweight texture.
Contains fragrance and lactic acid which may irritate very reactive skin. Patch test recommended. Some users report redness on first use.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5) and niacinamide helps with acne. However, not fungal acne safe due to fatty acid esters in the formula.
Results timeline
MONTH 2-3Instant Hydration & Glow
Skin feels immediately hydrated and refreshed. A subtle healthy glow is visible right after application. No greasy residue.
90% noticed instant hydrationSkin Looks Less Tired
Complexion starts to look less dull and fatigued. Skin texture begins to feel smoother as lactic acid promotes gentle exfoliation.
75% noticed a visible glowVisibly Brighter & More Even Skin
Significant improvement in skin brightness, evenness and smoothness. Dark spots begin to fade noticeably. Fine lines appear softened.
80% reported brighter, more even skinDark Spot Reduction & Firmness
Continued improvement in hyperpigmentation and post-acne marks. Peptide benefits become more apparent with firmer, more resilient skin.
65% noticed reduced dark spotsRatings by platform
22K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Lightweight, silky texture that absorbs quickly with no greasy residue
- Visible brightening and improved skin tone within 4 weeks
- Affordable drugstore price point backed by serious skincare science
- Pleasant, subtle citrus scent that fades quickly
- Works well under makeup and alongside other skincare products
- Free from parabens, phthalates, synthetic dyes and mineral oil
- Can be used both morning and night
Criticized
- Small jar size (50g) relative to the price
- Contains fragrance — not ideal for very sensitive skin
- Not fungal acne safe (contains FA-triggering ingredients)
- Vitamin C concentration is low; not a replacement for a dedicated Vitamin C serum
- Some users report initial redness or burning sensation
- May not be hydrating enough for very dry or dehydrated skin types
- Jar packaging exposes product to air and bacteria with each use
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Higher niacinamide concentration (10%) but no Vitamin C or peptides. Serum format rather than moisturiser — you will still need a separate moisturiser on top.
Contains 10% pure L-ascorbic acid (more potent Vitamin C) plus ceramides for barrier repair. However, it is a serum, not a moisturiser, and lacks niacinamide and peptides.
Another drugstore Vitamin C moisturiser with niacinamide at a lower price. Gel-cream texture is similar but lacks the peptide complex and Olay's proprietary autophagy-boosting technology.
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 needed. The stable Vitamin C derivative maintains potency at room temperature.
Screw-top jar. Consider using a clean spatula to minimise bacterial contamination from fingers.
Yes — 50g is under the 100ml carry-on limit. Compact jar fits easily in travel bags.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. This moisturiser does not contain retinoids, hydroquinone or salicylic acid. However, it does contain Lactic Acid (an AHA), which some dermatologists advise avoiding during pregnancy in high concentrations. The amount in this product is low, but we recommend consulting your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding to be safe.
No, this product is not fungal acne safe. It contains Isopropyl Isostearate (an ester), Stearic Acid and Palmitic Acid (fatty acids) which can feed Malassezia yeast and worsen fungal acne. If you have pityrosporum folliculitis, consider a dedicated fungal acne-safe moisturiser instead.
Yes, with care. Niacinamide pairs well with most actives. You can use retinol at night and this moisturiser on top to buffer potential irritation. If layering with a separate Vitamin C serum, apply the serum first and the moisturiser on top. Since this product already contains lactic acid (AHA), avoid layering additional strong AHA/BHA exfoliants in the same routine to prevent over-exfoliation. If using strong acids, alternate them on different days.
This moisturiser works best for oily, combination and normal skin types. Its lightweight, non-greasy texture absorbs quickly without adding shine. Dry skin types may find it slightly insufficient on its own and may want to layer a richer cream on top. Those with very sensitive or reactive skin should patch test first due to the fragrance and lactic acid content.
You should feel instant hydration from the first application. Within 1 week, skin typically looks less tired with a noticeable glow. By 28 days of consistent use, most users see visibly brighter, smoother and more even-toned skin. For significant dark spot reduction, expect 2-3 months of consistent daily use.
Apply as your moisturiser step — after cleanser, toner, serums and eye cream, but before sunscreen (AM). At night, it can be your final step. The general rule is to layer products from thinnest to thickest consistency. Use a nickel-sized amount and smooth evenly across face and neck.
This moisturiser has a low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. It is designed not to clog pores and the lightweight formula absorbs quickly. Niacinamide in the formula actually helps minimise the appearance of pores. However, everyone's skin is different — if you are highly acne-prone, introduce it gradually and monitor for any breakouts.
The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal potency and safety. The 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C derivative) is very stable and will not oxidise or turn brown like pure Vitamin C, so the product should remain effective throughout its shelf life. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Verdict: The Olay Niacinamide + Vitamin C Brightening Face Moisturiser delivers on its core promise — visibly brighter, more even-toned skin in about a month — at a price point that competes with products costing three or four times as much. The multi-active formula combining niacinamide, a stable Vitamin C derivative, lactic acid and Matrixyl peptide is well thought out and backed by solid science. Where it falls short is its fragrance (ruling it out for the most sensitive skin), its fungal acne-unsafe ingredients, and a relatively low Vitamin C concentration. If you want a lightweight, effective daily brightening moisturiser without breaking the bank, this is one of the best drugstore options available. Pair it with a dedicated sunscreen for best results.
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 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 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
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Isohexadecane
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Emollient
|
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|
|
| 3 |
Dimethicone
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antifoaming Agent, Skin Protecting
|
|