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Few skincare ingredients have become as ubiquitous as niacinamide.

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Photo: Rosdiana Ciaravolo/Getty Images

Retinols, peels, acids, and peroxides: there are a few actives Ihaventtried to save my skin.

Below is everything else you better know.

What is niacinamide?

What does niacinamide do for your skin?

When quizzed on the actual benefits of niacinamide, both experts share a veritable laundry list.

Niacinamide soothes redness, reduces inflammation, and controls excess oil.

As such, its a choice ingredient for those with eczema.

While niacinamides hydrating effects are instant, dont expect results on pigmentation or wrinkles overnight.

Is 10% niacinamide too much?

The ideal concentration of niacinamide in a serum depends on the skin concern you want to treat.

Elaborating, Kelly tells me that five percent is great for beginners or those with sensitive skin.

But Dr Ourian cautions against using percentages higher than 12% without an expert recommendation.

While they are safe and fine to go up to, there is the potential for irritation.

Equipped with the facts, I realized Id be foolish to not give niacinamide serums a try.

Time to pat some on.