Niacinamide for Acne & Oil Control
Niacinamide is not a prescription acne medicine. But as a support ingredient, it can make an acne routine more effective and more tolerable in the long run.
How Niacinamide Helps Acne-Prone Skin
- Oil regulation: can gradually reduce excessive shine.
- Redness control: calms inflamed-looking blemishes.
- Barrier support: helps skin cope with drying treatments.
- Marks and tone: may help fade post-acne hyperpigmentation.
What Niacinamide Cannot Do Alone
On its own, niacinamide is rarely enough for moderate or severe acne. It works best alongside:
- Topical retinoids (like adapalene).
- Benzoyl peroxide treatments.
- Salicylic acid (BHA) cleansers or leave-ons.
Sample Routine with Niacinamide for Acne
- Evening: gentle cleanser.
- Niacinamide serum (5–10%).
- Acne treatment (adapalene or benzoyl peroxide, if prescribed or recommended).
- Light, non-comedogenic moisturiser.
- Morning: gentle cleanse if needed, niacinamide or hydrator, SPF 30+.
If your skin feels tight, burning or very flaky, reduce frequency of stronger actives first – not just niacinamide.
If you have deep, painful cysts, widespread nodules or scarring, self-treating at home is rarely enough. Talk to a dermatologist about prescription options.