Can I use niacinamide 10% as a beginner?

Author: Braden Fahey Sr.  |  Last update: Saturday, June 7, 2025

Concentration: Niacinamide serums typically range from 5% to 10% concentration. For beginners, a 5% concentration is a good starting point. You can increase the concentration as your skin gets accustomed to the ingredient. Skin type: If you have sensitive skin, look for a fragrance-free and gentle formulation.

Can I use 10% niacinamide everyday as a beginner?

Frequency of Use: Daily Use: Niacinamide can be used both in the morning and evening. It's generally well-tolerated, but start with once a day if you have sensitive skin and gradually increase to twice a day as your skin adjusts. Duration of Use: Long-Term: Niacinamide is safe for long-term use.

What percentage of niacinamide should a beginner use?

Whether one chooses a niacinamide skincare product with 5%, 10%, or any percentage in between depends on one's unique skin needs and concerns. For those new to this powerhouse skin-enhancing ingredient, starting with a 5% formula allows the skin to acclimate while gradually imparting incredible benefits.

Is 10% niacinamide too much for beginners?

A 5% concentration of niacinamide has been shown to be effective in reducing hyperpigmentation and improving fine lines and wrinkles according to some studies. ¹⁷ Additionally, a concentration of lower than 10% may be more suitable if you have sensitive skin or if you're new to using niacinamide.

Is niacinamide 10% too harsh?

But also, a word of warning: Dr. Shirazi says that higher concentrations of niacinamide—“particularly those at 10% or higher—“can potentially cause irritation such as redness and rebound oil production.” On that note, Dr.

Why The Ordinary's Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is Breaking You Out!

Does 10% niacinamide cause purging?

Does Niacinamide cause purging? No, Niacinamide alone doesn't cause any purging of the skin. A product containing Niacinamide also contains other active ingredients like retinol, retinaldehyde, or AHAs, which can increase cellular turnover and shows signs of purging.

Is 10% niacinamide enough?

For general skin tone correction, a niacinamide concentration between 4-5% is often effective and well-tolerated by most individuals. For those looking to tackle more pronounced hyperpigmentation, a higher concentration of 10% may be beneficial, though it's important to monitor the skin for any signs of irritation.

What not to pair with niacinamide?

DON'T MIX: AHA/BHA and niacinamide

Niacinamide is used to treat hyperpigmentation and reduce fine lines and wrinkles, while alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) are chemical exfoliants. To understand why niacinamide shouldn't be mixed with AHAs and BHAs, you need to consider pH.

Who should use 10% niacinamide?

It is recommended for those dealing with dry or sensitive skin, inflammatory conditions like rosacea, oily or greasy skin, pigmentation, and wrinkles. Using niacinamide for acne is also recommended, as well as if your skin cannot tolerate retinol or vitamin C.

Why is my skin getting darker after using niacinamide?

Some may also have skin discoloration due to using niacinamide combined with other active ingredients that are too harsh for your skin type. Niacinamide can also cause problems when it's mixed with the following substances: Acids, including lactic acid, glycolic acid, and azelaic acid.

Which is better 5% or 10% niacinamide?

Users looking for quicker and more noticeable improvements in fine lines, wrinkles, and overall skin texture often opt for 10% niacinamide. The increased potency leads to faster and more comprehensive results compared to the gentler 5% counterpart.

Is 10% vitamin C good for beginners?

Beginner and Sensitive Skin Friendly

The concentration of 10% Vitamin C, makes it suitable for beginners & people with sensitive skin.

How to know if niacinamide is working?

Niacinamide and hyaluronic acid

While you may not see any significant results during the first few weeks, there should be a notable difference by about 4 weeks. After 8 weeks, you should notice more hydrated, smoother, and toned skin.

Is it necessary to apply moisturizer after niacinamide serum?

After the skin has properly absorbed the serum, apply a moisturiser. For oily skin, opt for a gel or water-based lightweight hydrating moisturiser. If you have dry skin, choose oil or cream-based heavy moisturiser. If it is a night routine, this is the last step, but the day routine has one more step left.

Should I use retinol and niacinamide together?

', the simple answer is yes. Niacinamide and retinol have a synergistic relationship, so you can use them together as long as you're familiar with the basics of how to layer serums and ingredients.

Is 10% niacinamide beginner friendly?

Serums contain active ingredients in concentrated form. Therefore, if you are a beginner to facial serums, start with 5% and increase as per your skin's tolerance. If your skin is used to active ingredients in a serum formulation, you can use 10% after doing a patch test.

Is 10 niacinamide too high?

Now, most people can tolerate niacinamide well even at 10% twice daily. But if you have a mysterious skin rash or unexplained irritation, it could be time to take a closer look at your niacinamide levels. One of the biggest issues of overdoing niacinamide isn't necessarily the one 10% product you may have.

Does niacinamide 10% damage the skin barrier?

Niacinamide aids in skin barrier function, helping skin recover from acne, rosacea & dermatitis. It also increases its resiliency, improving skin quality by making pores look smaller. It also helps balance oil production, and—bonus! —it's good for all skin type including sensitive skin & darker skin types.

What cancels out niacinamide?

Niacinamide and vitamin C

This combination sparks a lot of debate among skincare experts. Some say that since both niacinamide and vitamin C contain antioxidants, they cancel each other out and might even lead to irritation.

How to use niacinamide serum for beginners?

With its superior antibacterial properties, it controls the onset of acne, decreases oil secretion, and helps your skin retain its humidity.
  1. Apply 2-3 drops of serum on the entire face and neck twice a day.
  2. Massage gently until the serum gets absorbed.
  3. Protect your skin! Don't step out in the sun without sun protection.

Does niacinamide cause tiny bumps?

Does niacinamide cause pimples? Niacinamide does not cause any pimples as it is gentle on most people of all skin types. But it might irritate if it is used in larger quantities.

What percentage of niacinamide is good for beginners?

Though niacinamide is a soothing and non-irritating ingredient, applying products with a higher concentration (10 percent or more) can irritate the skin, especially if you have sensitive skin. “Stick to 5-10 percent, and not more. As a beginner, use products with 5 percent concentration,” the doctor added.

Can I use niacinamide 10% everyday?

Dr. Henry says that it's typically okay to use niacinamide twice a day (in the morning and in the evening), but advises that more than that could be excessive. As with any skincare ingredient, pay attention to its effect on your complexion to determine if you need to change its use in your regimen.

Can 10% niacinamide cause breakouts?

Does niacinamide cause purging or breakouts? Niacinamide isn't typically known to cause purging, but some people may experience mild breakouts as their skin adjusts. These usually clear up within a few weeks.

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