Balance Serum — 10% Niacinamide + Hydration Complex, 1 fl oz

Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is one of the most researched skincare ingredients with proven benefits for multiple concerns: oil control, pore minimizing, brightening, anti-aging, and barrier repair. It's popular because it's EFFECTIVE, GENTLE, and works for almost everyone. Think of it as a multi-tasking overachiever.

10% is the clinically effective "sweet spot." Lower concentrations (2-5%) provide minimal results. 10% delivers dramatic oil control and pore reduction. Higher concentrations (20%+) don't work better and can cause irritation. Our 10% formula is powerful yet well-tolerated by most skin types.

That's an OLD MYTH! Modern formulations of niacinamide and vitamin C work perfectly together. You can use them in the same routine without issues. Apply vitamin C first (on dry skin), wait 1 minute, then apply this serum. They actually complement each other beautifully.

Yes, some people experience temporary flushing or warmth when first starting niacinamide. This is harmless and usually subsides after 10-20 minutes. If flushing bothers you, start using it every other day or mix it with your moisturizer to buffer. Your skin will adapt within 1-2 weeks.

No! That's the beauty of niacinamide—it regulates sebum production (reduces excess oil) while strengthening your moisture barrier (prevents water loss). You get oil control WITHOUT dryness. Plus, our formula includes hyaluronic acid for added hydration. Your skin will be balanced, not dry.

This could be "purging"—niacinamide accelerates cell turnover, bringing existing congestion to the surface faster. TRUE PURGING happens in areas you normally break out and clears within 2-4 weeks. If you're breaking out in NEW areas or it lasts longer than 4 weeks, you may be experiencing irritation—reduce frequency or discontinue.

Niacinamide works for ALL skin types! While it's amazing for oily skin, dry skin benefits from its barrier-strengthening and hydration-boosting properties. Combination skin loves it because it balances oil in the T-zone without drying cheeks. It's truly universal.

You'll notice less oil within days. Pore size improvement takes 2-4 weeks of consistent use. Remember: you can't actually shrink pores permanently (size is genetic), but niacinamide makes them LOOK smaller by reducing oil/debris buildup and improving skin elasticity around them.

Yes! In fact, niacinamide is one of the BEST ingredients to pair with retinol. It reduces retinol irritation by 50% while adding its own anti-aging benefits. Use them together in your evening routine: cleanse → tone → Balance Serum → wait 2 min → retinol → moisturizer.

If your ENTIRE face is oily or has large pores, use all over. If only your T-zone is problematic, you can target just those areas. However, niacinamide has so many benefits (brightening, anti-aging, barrier repair) that most people benefit from full-face application.

Yes! Niacinamide is considered one of the safest active ingredients during pregnancy. Unlike retinol or some acids, niacinamide poses no known risks. However, always consult your doctor before starting any new products while pregnant or nursing.

Absolutely! This is perfect for teenage skin struggling with oil, large pores, and breakouts. Niacinamide is gentler than harsh acne treatments while being highly effective. Teens should use it once daily initially, building up to twice daily.

You might be using too much. Start with 2-3 drops for your entire face. Niacinamide serums can have a slightly tacky finish initially, but this should disappear within 1-2 minutes. If shininess persists, use less product or make sure you're giving it time to absorb before adding moisturizer.

Yes! Niacinamide is anti-inflammatory and has been shown to reduce redness and irritation in rosacea-prone skin. Start slowly (once daily) to make sure your skin tolerates it, then increase to twice daily. Many rosacea sufferers find niacinamide very beneficial.

Yes! While not as potent as dedicated brightening serums, 10% niacinamide does fade hyperpigmentation by inhibiting melanin transfer. For maximum brightening, pair this with our Calm Radiance or Bright Radiance Serum.