Niacinamide: A Powerful Ingredient for Healthy Skin
Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, is a multi-tasking skincare ingredient loved for its ability to visibly refine pores, even out skin tone, and strengthen the skin barrier. Suitable for all skin types, it helps restore clarity and resilience — making it a must-have in any modern skincare routine.
Benefits of Niacinamide for Skin
Niacinamide products offer a wide range of proven benefits that make it an essential part of any skincare routine — especially for those dealing with dullness, uneven texture, or sensitivity.
- Supports a Healthy Skin Barrier: Niacinamide helps boost ceramide production, which strengthens the skin’s protective layer, reducing moisture loss and shielding it from environmental stressors.
- Reduces Inflammation: Its anti-inflammatory properties calm redness, irritation, and blotchiness, making it ideal for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
- Minimises Pore Appearance: Regular use can visibly reduce the look of enlarged pores by helping regulate skin function and promoting smoother texture over time.
- Evens Skin Tone: Niacinamide works to fade dark spots and discolouration by interrupting the transfer of melanin to skin cells, resulting in a more uniform complexion.
- Brightens Skin: It revitalises tired-looking skin by improving radiance and clarity, giving your face a refreshed, healthy glow.
- Anti-Ageing Effects: Niacinamide supports collagen production and improves skin elasticity, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Regulates Oil Production: It balances sebum levels, which helps control shine without drying out the skin.
- Antioxidant Properties: Niacinamide helps neutralise free radicals, protecting the skin from premature ageing caused by pollution and UV damage.
Our Top Niacinamide Picks in Malaysia
Looking to incorporate niacinamide into your routine? Whether you're new to the ingredient or seeking targeted treatments, Paula’s Choice Malaysia offers a range of expertly formulated niacinamide products for face, eyes, and more.
Niacinamide 20% Treatment
This high-strength Niacinamide 20% Treatment is formulated to visibly tighten pores, smooth uneven skin texture, and refine skin tone with a concentrated 20% dose of niacinamide. This product is for seasoned users of niacinamide only. For beginners with concerns like enlarged pores and uneven skin tone, we recommend starting with the 10% Niacinamide Booster instead, as it offers similar benefits in a gentler formulation.
10% Niacinamide Booster
Perfect for beginners or those with sensitive skin, the 10% Niacinamide Booster is a serum that gently refines pores, evens tone, and strengthens the skin barrier with a lightweight, water-like texture that layers easily with any routine.
Anti-Aging Clear Skin Hydrator
The Anti-Aging Clear Skin Hydrator is a unique gel-lotion moisturiser designed for normal to oily or combination skin. It delivers immediate hydration while visibly improving the look of enlarged pores and smoothing fine lines. Infused with niacinamide and vitamin C, it helps brighten uneven skin tone and strengthens the skin against environmental stressors.
Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner
The Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner is a lightweight, fluid formula designed to refresh and rebalance oily or combination skin. Applied after cleansing the face with a gentle cleanser or face wash, it helps visibly minimise enlarged pores while delivering light hydration to prevent dehydration. This niacinamide toner also reduces excess shine without stripping the skin, making it ideal for those managing oiliness and early signs of ageing.
Resist Anti-Aging Eye Gel
The Resist Anti-Aging Eye Gel is a lightweight, refreshing treatment that targets multiple signs of ageing around the delicate eye area. Formulated with niacinamide, peptides, hyaluronic acid, and licorice, it helps hydrate, smooth fine lines, and visibly brighten tired-looking eyes. The cooling applicator instantly soothes puffiness, making it a perfect pick-me-up both morning and night.
How to Choose the Right Niacinamide Products
Consider Your Skin Concerns
Niacinamide can target a wide range of concerns — from enlarged pores and oily skin to hyperpigmentation, dryness, fine lines, or sensitivity. If you're struggling with excess shine or visibly large pores, a pore-refining toner or serum may be ideal. For uneven skin tone or dark spots, look for brightening formulas with niacinamide and vitamin C. Drier skin types may benefit more from niacinamide-enriched moisturisers.
Choose the Right Product Type
Niacinamide is found in many skincare products, including serums, moisturisers, toners, and eye creams. Serums deliver concentrated results, while moisturisers and toners offer added hydration alongside daily benefits. Choose formulations that suit your routine and layering preferences.
Pay Attention to Concentration
Start with a product containing 5–10% niacinamide, especially if you’re new to the ingredient. Higher concentrations, such as 20%, can offer more dramatic results but are best suited for seasoned users already familiar with how their skin responds to niacinamide.
Check for Other Ingredients
Niacinamide works well with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, peptides, and antioxidants. If you're targeting multiple concerns, look for synergistic blends that address them in a single formula.
Start Slowly and Patch-Test
While niacinamide is generally well-tolerated, everyone’s skin is different. Introduce new products gradually and patch-test when trying higher concentrations. If you experience irritation, discontinue use and consult a dermatologist.