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Radically Rejuvenating Niacinamide Serum

Radically Rejuvenating Niacinamide Serum

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

A clean, minimalist anti-aging serum powered by niacinamide (vitamin B3), zinc PCA, and hemp seed oil. This lightweight, fast-absorbing formula helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, dark spots, and enlarged pores while balancing sebum production for a clearer, more radiant complexion. Only 14 thoughtfully chosen ingredients.

100% Vegan Cruelty-Free Paraben Free Sulfate Free Fragrance Free Mineral Oil Free Formaldehyde Free Climate Neutral Certified Only 14 Ingredients
Pregnancy
Yes
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
1/5
Size
30 ml / 1 fl oz
Type
Serum
Packaging
Glass Pump
Key Active
Niacinamide ~5-8%
Concern
Anti-Aging / Pores
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Minimizes Pores & Dark Spots

Niacinamide helps reduce the appearance of enlarged pores and fades hyperpigmentation for a more even-toned complexion over time.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Lightweight Gel
Scent
Fragrance-Free
Absorption
15-30 Seconds
Finish
Natural / Dewy

Minimizes Pores & Dark Spots

Niacinamide helps reduce the appearance of enlarged pores and fades hyperpigmentation for a more even-toned complexion over time.

Strengthens Skin Barrier

Niacinamide boosts ceramide production to reinforce the skin barrier, locking in moisture and defending against environmental stressors.

Balances Oil Production

Zinc PCA helps regulate sebum secretion and calm inflammation, making it ideal for oily and acne-prone skin types.

Ultra-Clean Formula

Only 14 ingredients with no fillers, fragrances, or harsh chemicals. Free from parabens, sulfates, mineral oil, petrolatum, and formaldehyde.

Deep Hydration with Hemp Seed Oil

Cannabis sativa seed oil is rich in linoleic acid and omega fatty acids, delivering nourishment and softening skin without clogging pores.

Anti-Aging Performance

Niacinamide stimulates collagen synthesis and improves skin elasticity, helping to visibly reduce fine lines and wrinkles with consistent use.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe

Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Always consult your doctor.

Not Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safe

Contains Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil (hemp seed oil), which is a fatty acid-rich plant oil that can feed malassezia yeast and trigger fungal acne breakouts.

Low Comedogenic Risk (1/5)

Hemp seed oil has a comedogenic rating of 0. The overall formula is lightweight and unlikely to clog pores for most skin types.

Sensitive Skin Friendly

Fragrance-free, no harsh alcohols, no silicones, and no common allergens. Niacinamide is well-tolerated by most sensitive skin types at this concentration.

Compatible with Most Actives

Works well alongside retinol, hyaluronic acid, peptides, and AHA/BHA. Use vitamin C in a separate routine for best results.

EWG Safety Score

Low concern for cancer and developmental toxicity. Moderate concern for allergies & immunotoxicity. All ingredients individually score well on the EWG Skin Deep database.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~5-8%Proven

The star ingredient and second listed on the INCI, indicating a high concentration. Niacinamide is one of the most well-researched skincare actives, known for its multitasking abilities across multiple skin concerns.

  • Pore Reduction: Studies show 5% niacinamide can visibly reduce pore size and improve skin texture after 12 weeks of use.
  • Barrier Support: Boosts ceramide and fatty acid production in the skin, strengthening the natural moisture barrier.
  • Anti-Aging: Stimulates collagen synthesis and inhibits glycation, helping reduce fine lines and improve skin elasticity.
  • Brightening: Inhibits melanosome transfer to reduce dark spots and even out skin tone over time.
  • Oil Regulation: At concentrations of 4-6%, niacinamide helps regulate sebum production and reduce acne breakouts.
Well-tolerated by most skin types including sensitive skin. Water-soluble, stable, and effective across a wide pH range.

Zinc PCA ~3-4%Promising

A zinc salt combined with PCA (pyrrolidone carboxylic acid), a natural humectant found in the skin. This compound delivers the antibacterial and sebum-regulating benefits of zinc along with hydration.

  • Sebum Control: Zinc PCA has been shown to reduce excess oil production, helping keep shine under control throughout the day.
  • Anti-Inflammatory: Zinc helps calm redness and irritation associated with acne and breakouts.
  • Antibacterial: Can reduce the presence of acne-causing bacteria on the skin surface.
  • Humectant: The PCA component attracts water to the skin, providing lightweight hydration.
While zinc itself is well-studied, the specific compound Zinc PCA has more limited clinical research compared to other zinc forms. Still considered effective and safe for topical use.

Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil (Hemp Seed Oil) ~1-2%Promising

A plant-derived oil rich in linoleic acid, omega-3, and omega-6 fatty acids. Hemp seed oil is valued for its moisturizing and barrier-strengthening properties without the heavy feel of thicker oils.

  • Linoleic Acid Rich: High in linoleic acid, which helps strengthen the skin barrier and soften the upper skin layer.
  • Non-Comedogenic: Rated 0 on the comedogenic scale despite being an oil, making it suitable for most skin types.
  • Anti-Inflammatory: Omega fatty acids help soothe irritation and reduce redness.
Not suitable for fungal acne (malassezia) prone skin. The fatty acids in hemp seed oil can feed malassezia yeast. If you experience fungal acne, consider a fungal acne-safe alternative.

Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice ~3-5%Proven

Third ingredient on the list, providing soothing and hydrating benefits. Aloe vera is packed with vitamins A, C, and E, plus natural polysaccharides that bind moisture to the skin.

  • Soothing: Known for its anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties, making it ideal for calming irritated skin.
  • Hydrating: Contains monosaccharides and polysaccharides that attract and retain moisture in the skin.
  • Antioxidant: Vitamins A, C, and E provide antioxidant defense against free radical damage.

Glycerin ~1.5-2.5%Proven

One of the most effective and well-researched humectants in skincare. Glycerin is naturally present in the skin and draws water from the environment and deeper skin layers to keep the surface hydrated.

  • Humectant: Attracts and retains moisture in the upper skin layer for lasting hydration.
  • Barrier Support: Helps maintain the skin's natural protective barrier function.

14 ingredients

Water (Eau), Niacinamide, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Zinc PCA, Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil, Glycerin, Sodium Anisate, Sclerotium Gum, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Levulinate, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Sodium Phytate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Citric Acid.

FREE FROM: Parabens, Sulfates, Mineral Oil, Petrolatum, Formaldehyde, Fragrance, Silicones, Phthalates, Synthetic Dyes, PEGs, SLS/SLES, Phenoxyethanol, Alcohol (Drying), Oxybenzone, Coal Tar
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
Toner
3
This Serum
4
Moisturizer
5
Sunscreen

Apply in the AM before moisturizer. Can also be used in PM routine. Apply after water-based toners and before heavier creams and oils. Wait 1-2 minutes between layering steps for best absorption.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Cleanse Your Face

Start with a clean canvas. Wash your face with your preferred cleanser and pat dry gently with a clean towel.

2

Apply Toner (Optional)

If you use a toner or essence, apply it first and let it absorb for about 30 seconds before proceeding.

3

Dispense the Serum

Pump a small amount (2-3 drops) of serum onto your fingertips. A little goes a long way with this concentrated formula.

4

Apply to Face

Gently press and pat the serum onto your entire face, focusing on areas of concern such as enlarged pores, dark spots, and fine lines. Avoid pulling or rubbing the skin.

5

Follow with Moisturizer & SPF

Allow the serum to absorb for 1-2 minutes, then apply your moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with sunscreen (SPF 30+).

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You want to reduce the appearance of enlarged pores and uneven skin tone
  • You prefer a short, clean ingredient list with no unnecessary fillers
  • You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin that needs oil balancing
  • You are looking for an affordable, vegan, and cruelty-free anti-aging serum
  • You want a fragrance-free product safe for sensitive skin
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe active treatment
  • You want a lightweight serum that layers well under makeup

Consider alternatives if:

  • You have fungal acne (malassezia) — hemp seed oil can trigger flare-ups
  • You need a very high concentration of niacinamide (10%+)
  • You want a more hydrating serum for very dry or dehydrated skin
  • You prefer a larger bottle size — this is only 30ml
  • You want a multi-step serum with peptides, retinol, or hyaluronic acid included
  • You need a PM-specific treatment with more potent anti-aging actives
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Outstanding choice. Niacinamide and zinc PCA work together to regulate sebum and control shine. Lightweight gel absorbs instantly without adding greasiness.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Balances oily T-zone while providing enough hydration for drier areas. Non-greasy formula adapts well across different facial zones.

Acne-Prone Skin
Good

Niacinamide and zinc PCA help reduce breakouts and calm inflammation. Low comedogenic rating (1/5). Not suitable for fungal acne due to hemp seed oil.

Dry Skin
Moderate

Provides some hydration from glycerin and aloe, but may not be enough on its own. Best paired with a rich moisturizer or hydrating serum underneath.

Sensitive Skin
Good

Fragrance-free, no harsh alcohols, no silicones. Clean ingredient list reduces irritation risk. Patch test recommended as niacinamide can cause mild flushing in rare cases.

Mature Skin
Good

Niacinamide supports collagen production and brightens dull skin. For deeper wrinkles, consider pairing with a retinol or peptide treatment for enhanced anti-aging results.

08

Results timeline

WEEK 10-12+
Week 1-2

Improved Hydration & Smoother Texture

Skin begins to feel softer, more hydrated, and smoother to the touch. The lightweight gel absorbs quickly and provides an immediate plumping effect from glycerin and aloe vera.

70% noticed softer skin
Week 3-4

Reduced Oiliness & Less Redness

Zinc PCA and niacinamide begin regulating sebum production. Users report less midday shine and calmer, less irritated skin with fewer minor breakouts.

60% noticed oil reduction
Week 6-8

Visible Pore Minimization & Brighter Tone

Niacinamide's effects on pore size and pigmentation become noticeable. Skin tone appears more even, and dark spots begin to fade. Overall complexion looks brighter and more balanced.

55% noticed pore improvement
Week 10-12+

Fine Line Reduction & Overall Rejuvenation

With consistent daily use, collagen-boosting effects of niacinamide help soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Skin looks visibly firmer, smoother, and more youthful overall.

50% noticed fine line improvement
09

Ratings by platform

2K+ REVIEWS
Amazon
4.4
Rating
2,500+
Reviews
Main complaint: Small bottle size (30ml) runs out quickly for daily use
iHerb
4.3
Rating
200+
Reviews
Main complaint: Some users didn't notice dramatic results compared to other niacinamide serums
Ulta / Target
4.2
Rating
150+
Reviews
Main complaint: Price per ml is higher than some competitors like The Ordinary
Acure Website
4.7
Rating
50+
Reviews
Main complaint: Glass bottle can be fragile for travel
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Ultra-short, clean ingredient list — only 14 ingredients with no fillers
  • Effective niacinamide concentration (5-8%) backed by research
  • Lightweight gel texture absorbs quickly without stickiness or greasiness
  • Fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive skin
  • 100% vegan, cruelty-free, and Climate Neutral Certified
  • Elegant glass pump bottle dispenses product precisely
  • Affordable price point for a clean beauty brand
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
  • Widely available at Target, Whole Foods, Ulta, and online retailers

Criticized

  • Small 30ml size — runs out fast with daily use
  • Not fungal acne safe due to hemp seed oil
  • Lower niacinamide concentration than some competitors (The Ordinary has 10%)
  • May not provide enough hydration for very dry skin types
  • Some users report no dramatic visible results
  • Glass bottle is fragile and not ideal for travel
  • Higher price per ml compared to budget alternatives
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
85% Match
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
$6.00
Budget Pick

Higher niacinamide concentration (10% vs ~5-8%) and same zinc PCA active. More basic formula without hemp seed oil or aloe. Can pill under makeup. Not as clean an ingredient list but extremely affordable.

70% Match
Niacinamide Oil Control Serum
$8.99
Budget Pick

Contains 10% niacinamide with hyaluronic acid instead of zinc PCA. More hydrating but less oil-controlling. Simpler formula, good for beginners. Not as focused on anti-aging benefits.

75% Match
Niacinamide Serum
$6.00
Budget Pick

Contains 10% niacinamide in a lightweight water-based formula. No zinc PCA or hemp seed oil. Fungal acne safe unlike the ACURE serum. Slightly less multi-benefit but very affordable and effective.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
Key Active Niacinamide 10%
Size 30ml
Price per ml $0.20/ml
Ingredient Count 11
Vegan / Cruelty-Free Yes / Yes
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
Fragrance Free Yes
Pregnancy Safe Yes
10% Niacinamide Booster
Key Active Niacinamide 10%
Size 20ml
Price per ml $2.30/ml
Ingredient Count 17
Vegan / Cruelty-Free Yes / Yes
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
Fragrance Free Yes
Pregnancy Safe Yes
Niacinamide Serum 12% Plus Zinc 2%
Key Active Niacinamide 12%
Size 30ml
Price per ml $0.53/ml
Ingredient Count 18
Vegan / Cruelty-Free Yes / Yes
Fungal Acne Safe No
Fragrance Free Yes
Pregnancy Safe Yes
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required. Avoid extreme temperatures.

Packaging

White glass bottle with twist-lock pump dispenser. The pump provides precise, hygienic dispensing and the glass bottle protects the formula from degradation.

Travel Friendly

Yes, 30ml is under the 100ml TSA carry-on limit. However, the glass bottle requires careful packing. Consider wrapping in a soft cloth or using a protective case.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Yes. This serum contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, benzoyl peroxide, or chemical sunscreens — all commonly flagged ingredients during pregnancy. Niacinamide, aloe vera, zinc PCA, glycerin, and hemp seed oil are all considered safe for topical use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. As always, consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before introducing new skincare products during pregnancy.

No. This serum contains Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil (hemp seed oil), which is a fatty acid-rich plant oil. Fatty acids, particularly oleic acid and other long-chain fatty acids, can feed the malassezia yeast that causes fungal acne. If you are prone to fungal acne, consider a fungal acne-safe niacinamide alternative such as The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% or Good Molecules Niacinamide Serum.

Niacinamide is compatible with most active ingredients. It pairs well with retinol (can reduce retinol-related irritation), hyaluronic acid, peptides, and ceramides. For vitamin C (ascorbic acid), it is best to use them in separate routines (niacinamide in AM, vitamin C in PM or vice versa) as combining them can decrease the effectiveness of both. Niacinamide is safe to use alongside AHA and BHA exfoliants and can help soothe the skin after chemical exfoliation.

This serum is best suited for oily, combination, and normal skin types. The lightweight gel texture and oil-regulating ingredients (niacinamide + zinc PCA) make it especially effective for those with excess sebum production. It also works well for sensitive skin due to its fragrance-free, minimal formula. Dry skin types may find it too lightweight on its own and should pair it with a richer moisturizer. It is suitable for all skin tones and ages, particularly those concerned with aging, pores, and uneven skin tone.

Initial improvements in skin hydration and texture can be felt within the first 1-2 weeks of daily use. Oil-balancing effects typically become noticeable around weeks 3-4. For more significant results like pore minimization, reduced dark spots, and fine line improvement, allow 8-12 weeks of consistent daily use. Niacinamide is a gentle active that works gradually, so patience and consistency are key to seeing visible results.

Apply this serum after cleansing and toning, but before moisturizer and sunscreen. The general rule is to apply products from thinnest to thickest consistency. As a lightweight gel serum, it should go on before heavier creams and oils. Use it in your morning routine (as directed by ACURE) or in both AM and PM routines. Always follow with sunscreen during the day.

This serum has a low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, meaning it is very unlikely to clog pores for most people. Hemp seed oil, despite being an oil, has a comedogenic rating of 0 and is actually rich in linoleic acid, which can help keep pores clear. Niacinamide itself helps reduce pore size and regulate oil production. However, everyone's skin is different, so if you are extremely sensitive to oils, do a patch test first.

The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The serum should be used within 12 months of first opening the pump. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain the integrity of the niacinamide and other active ingredients. The glass bottle and pump packaging help protect the formula from air exposure and contamination. With daily use, the 30ml bottle typically lasts 6-8 weeks.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.2 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: The ACURE Radically Rejuvenating Niacinamide Serum is a solid, clean-formula niacinamide serum that punches above its weight for the price. Its standout feature is the exceptionally short ingredient list — just 14 ingredients with zero fillers, fragrances, or questionable additives. The proven combination of niacinamide and zinc PCA delivers real benefits for pore size, oil control, and skin tone. It earns points for being pregnancy-safe, vegan, cruelty-free, and widely accessible. The main drawbacks are the small 30ml size, the presence of hemp seed oil (which makes it unsuitable for fungal acne-prone skin), and a lower niacinamide concentration than some competitors. If you value clean ingredients and a minimal formula over maximum potency, this is an excellent choice at a fair price point.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb What are Quick Product Notes?

Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?

Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.

We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.

Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide Citric Acid
brightening Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide Glycerin Citric Acid
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide Zinc PCA Glycerin Citric Acid
ache Ache-fighting from 2 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide Zinc PCA
question
lightbulb What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?

Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.

We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.

One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
1
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
2
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?

Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
71% 28%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 14 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
1 A
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
brightening Brightening
ache Ache-fighting
anti-aging Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
0 Unknown
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Skin Conditioning
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
0 Unknown
Zinc PCA
ache Ache-fighting
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
0 Unknown
Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil
Emollient, Skin Conditioning
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS