Ingredients
How to Use Niacinamide: Step-by-Step Routine for Beginners
By GlowMate Editorial · Reviewed with consulting dermatologist input ·
Use niacinamide after cleansing and before moisturiser, once or twice a day. Press 3–4 drops onto clean skin, wait a minute, then moisturise — and in the morning, finish with sunscreen. If your skin is sensitive, start every other day for a week, then go daily.
What is niacinamide used for?
Niacinamide — also called nicotinamide or vitamin B3 — is used for oily skin, large-looking pores, dull or uneven tone, marks left by acne, and a weak skin barrier. It is a skin-friendly form of vitamin B3 with the chemical formula C6H6N2O, and it does not cause the hot flush that the related vitamin niacin can. People sometimes search for it as “niacinimide” or “nicimide” — it is the same ingredient.
How do you use niacinamide, step by step?
Here is the simple order for morning and night:
- Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat it dry.
- Put 3–4 drops of niacinamide serum on your fingertips and press it over your face and neck. Keep it away from your eyes and lips.
- Wait about a minute, until the serum feels dry and not sticky.
- Apply your moisturiser to seal it in.
- In the morning only: finish with sunscreen, SPF 50 PA+++ or higher.
Should I use niacinamide in the morning or at night?
Either is fine, and you can use it both times. Morning is good for oil control under sunscreen and makeup. Night is good if you use other strong actives in the morning. If your skin is sensitive, start with once a day. Using it every day matters more than the time of day.
What can you use niacinamide with?
It plays well with most ingredients. This table shows the common ones:
| Ingredient | Use together? | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Vitamin C | Yes | If your skin is reactive, use vitamin C in the morning and niacinamide at night |
| Retinol | Yes | Many people find niacinamide keeps skin calmer while it gets used to retinol — add one new product at a time |
| AHA / BHA (glycolic, lactic, salicylic acid) | Yes, with care | If your skin stings, use them on different nights |
| Sunscreen | Yes — and needed | Always the last step in the morning |
| Other niacinamide products | Be careful | A serum, moisturiser and toner can all contain it — the total adds up |
What side effects are normal, and when should you stop?
Niacinamide is gentle for most people. A little tingling in the first few days can happen. Stop for a few days if you get redness that does not settle, burning, or itchy bumps, then try again less often or at a lower strength. If you are pregnant, or have a skin condition that a doctor is treating, check with your doctor before adding anything new.
FAQ
How do you use niacinamide in a skincare routine?
After cleansing and before moisturiser: 3–4 drops, wait a minute, then moisturise. In the morning, add sunscreen as the last step.
Can I use niacinamide every day?
Yes. It is one of the few actives most people can use daily from the start. If your skin is sensitive, or the serum is 10%, begin every other day for a week.
Should I apply niacinamide before or after moisturiser?
Before. Thin, watery products go first and thick creams go last, so the serum can sink in.
Can I use niacinamide and vitamin C together?
Yes. Modern products work well together. If your skin is easily irritated, use vitamin C in the morning and niacinamide at night.
What is niacinamide used for?
Oil control, visible pores, uneven skin tone, marks left by acne, and a stronger skin barrier.
Is niacinamide safe in pregnancy?
It is generally considered safe and is often kept in pregnancy routines, but check with your doctor first — especially if you use other products.
Picks that fit this guide
Minimalist
Niacinamide 5% Serum
₹568
Re’equil
Oxybenzone-Free Sunscreen SPF 50 PA+++
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Cetaphil
Moisturising Cream
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