11 Best Niacinamide Creams For Glowing Skin, Esthetician-Approved (2024)
For healthy and flawless skin, niacinamide creams are must-haves in your makeup pouch.
Anna MisztelaLicensed Esthetician
Anna is a licensed esthetician and the founder and owner of Beauty and Cutie® hair, skin and nails vitamins from New York. Her interest in nutrition analysis and beauty propelled her to obtain a certification in Nutrition Science from the ... more
kirtana divakarMA (Journalism & Mass Communication)
Experience: 3 yearsKirtana has a postgraduate degree in mass communication and journalism from St. Joseph’s College, Bengaluru, and 3 years of professional experience. She developed a deep passion for writing after read... more
medha debIntegrated MA
Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in ... more
monomita chakrabortyMA (Journalism & Mass Communication)
Experience: 4 yearsMonomita has a graduate degree in mass communication and video production from St. Anthony's College, Shillong, and a master’s degree in journalism and mass communication from the Royal Global Univers... more
Image: Shutterstock
The meaning of skin care has changed drastically with the emerging trends. It is no more a single cream or gel, as every skin has different needs. To satisfy these needs, you need to incorporate the best niacinamide cream into your skin care regimen. It offers an array of benefits to your skin. Visible results can be achieved with regular use. It stands as a superior ingredient in skin care. Continue reading further to know more about these professional-grade creams and how they can benefit your skin.
In This Article
What Is Niacinamide?
Niacinamide is a skin-loving water-soluble form of vitamin B3 and is best known for its versatility in nourishing every skin type. It is found in a wide range of skin care products, including serums, eye creams, night creams, and toners. This skin care ingredient repairs and replenishes the skin’s moisture barrier while reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots. To put it simply, a niacinamide product gives you glowing, healthy-looking, and radiant skin.
11 Best Niacinamide Creams For Bright, Glowing Skin – 2024
1. Best Non-Greasy:CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream
Are you looking for a magic product to renew your tired skin overnight? Try this niacinamide lotion infused with skin-plumping hyaluronic acid and ceramides. This dermatologist-recommended cream restores your protective skin and does barrier repair, so you wake up feeling refreshed and renewed every day. It also contains shea butter and citric acid to cleanse and moisturize your skin while improving uneven skin tone. This gentle, non-irritating formula has a luxuriously rich, creamy texture and is fragrance-free and non-comedogenic. This Vitamin B3 cream for acne scars is not only suitable for sensitive skin but also for those prone to breakouts. You may check this video featuring a tester’s experience for a better understanding of this cult classic.
Pros
- Non-greasy and fast absorbing formula
- Fragrance-free
- Non-comedogenic ingredients
- Suitable for sensitive skin
Cons
- Contains SLS.
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Almost 31,099 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.
2. Best For Sensitive Skin:La Roche-Posay Double Repair Face Moisturizer
This soothing moisturizer has a high concentration of niacinamide, which helps you kiss your tired skin goodbye. Prebiotic thermal water, glycerin, and ceramides in this formula replenish essential moisture and restore the skin’s natural barrier, thereby protecting it against harmful environmental aggressors. The soft, creamy texture will add a comforting step to your skin care regime, and will also reduce the appearance of dryness, redness, and roughness. Suitable for all skin types, this niacinamide face cream can be used day and night for long-lasting hydration. This video review about a tester’s experience will help you learn more about the product.
Pros
- Safe for sensitive skin
- Oil-free and non-comedogenic
- Free of parabens, synthetic ingredients, and fragrances
- Dermatologist-tested and allergy tested
Cons
- Some might find the texture of this product a bit flaky.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
A whopping 4,377 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.
3. Best For UV Protection:Acure Seriously Soothing SPF Day Cream
If you’re looking for products containing niacinamide explicitly designed for sensitive skin that also double as a sunscreen, you’re in the right place. This soothing day cream is infused with skin-loving ingredients like blue tansy oil, anti-bacterial calendula, and calming chamomile, which gently heal irritated and sensitive skin. Hyaluronic and sunflower amino acids reduce the appearance of dehydration lines, redness, and dryness by hydrating and plumping up the skin. This hyaluronic acid and niacinamide daytime cream also provides calming support for skin that appears healthier and well-rested. The non-nano ZnO provides protection against the harmful effects of the sun’s UV rays.
Pros
- Provides broad spectrum SPF 30 sun protection
- Free of parabens, sulfates, and petrolatum
- Contains no mineral oil
- 100% vegan and cruelty-free.
Cons
- Some might find the fragrance of this product a bit unpleasant.
"This cream protects my skin without causing irritation or breakouts. Its watery texture gets absorbed easily and does not make the skin feel heavy. It does not settle into a white cast. It can be reapplied once or twice when it is too hot outside. It does feel sticky when I am sweating too much."
| CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream Best Non-Greasy | La Roche-Posay Double Repair Face Moisturizer Best For Sensitive Skin | Acure Seriously Soothing SPF Day Cream Best For UV Protection | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 8 x 2.63 x 2.19 inches | 1.5 x 3.2 x 5.7 inches | 1.5 x 1.7 x 4.5 inches |
| Weight | 1.69 Ounces | 3.2 Ounces. | 1.76 Ounces. |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 31,099 | 4,377 | 357 |
| Price | $15.38 | $21.99 | $12.49 |
4. Best Lightweight:EltaMD AM Therapy Facial Moisturizer
If you need a day moisturizer that helps you achieve a smooth complexion, and supple skin, this premium quality lotion is an ideal pick. Formulated with niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, this niacinamide cream for oily skin brightens dull skin and improves skin tone while reducing the appearance of fine lines and also helping with wrinkle reduction. It also contains willow bark extract and caffeine to soothe the skin and rid pores of impurities. Lightweight and fast-absorbing, this facial moisturizing lotion is suitable for normal to oily. Regular use of this cream will improve moisture absorption and retention to give you beautiful skin that is soothed, refreshed, and rejuvenated.
Pros
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing formula
- Ideal for normal to oily skin
- Oil-free and non-comedogenic
- Free of fragrances and parabens
Cons
- Some might find that this cream leaves a bit of shiny residue on the skin.
Did You Know?5. Best For All Skin Types:Body Merry Breakthrough Night Cream
If worrying about free radical damage or the appearance of premature signs of skin aging like wrinkles, fine lines, and crow’s feet keeps you up at night, here’s a niacinamide face cream that works while you sleep. Formulated with 5% niacinamide, peptides, ocean minerals, and seaweed, this night cream spreads easily and absorbs quickly to hydrate and rejuvenate skin overnight. Also included in the impressive list of clean ingredients are organic jojoba and spirulina maxima, which improve the skin’s elasticity and boost moisture levels. Testers on various platforms have shared that this has quickly become their favorite moisturizer as it gives them beautiful skin.
Pros
- Made with natural and organic ingredients
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture
- Suitable for all skin types
- Fragrance-free formula
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons
- Some might find the texture of this night cream a bit greasy.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With 1,316 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.
6. Best For Daily Use:Beaueli Cosmetics Eye Roller
This niacinamide eye cream is specifically formulated to rejuvenate the delicate eye area and reduce the appearance of tiredness, fine lines, dark circles, and wrinkles. The convenient eye-roller design ensures the nourishing gel-based essence is massaged and quickly absorbed into the under-eye area. Hyaluronic acid, peptides, and panthenol improve skin elasticity and skin tone for hydrated, radiant, and younger-looking skin. Suitable for all skin types, this eye cream can be used day and night. The product has countless positive reviews on Amazon, further vouching for its effectiveness.
Pros
- Safe for sensitive skin
- Free of parabens, alcohol, and sulfates
- Oil-free formula
- Ideal for daily use
Cons
- Some might find the texture of this eye cream a bit thin.
Pro TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
The overwhelming 250 positive reviews on Amazon show how popular this product is with happy users.
7. Best Subtle Fragrance: Olay Regenerist Niacinamide + Peptide 24 Hydrating Face Moisturizer
The Olay Regenerist Niacinamide + Peptide 24-hour Hydrating Face Moisturizer hydrates and repairs the skin barrier. It is infused with pure niacinamide along with peptides to combat free radical damage and reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone and give you smooth, clearer skin. It gives you 24-hour hydration, with a 2x stronger skin barrier, and promotes the skin renewal process for radiant healthier skin. The cream is highly nourishing and lightweight, with a light refreshing fragrance. It can easily be used under makeup as it absorbs into the skin quickly and is non-greasy.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Synthetic dye-free
- Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
Cons
- None
8. Best Vegan:I Dew Care Glow-Key Brightening Vitamin C Eye Cream
If dark circles, fine lines, and wrinkles are your biggest concern, give this niacinamide eye cream a try. It instantly boosts radiance, evens skin tone, and revives and energizes the delicate skin around the eyes. Infused with moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and coffee seed extract, this niacinamide skin-brightening cream protects your skin against environmental stressors. Antioxidant-rich guava and eyebright extract improves the skin texture for a glowing, healthier-looking complexion.
Pros
- Suitable for all skin types
- Designed for daily use
- Gluten-free
- Free of parabens, sulfates, and phthalates
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Rich in antioxidants
Cons
- Product may not effectively reduce dark circles
9. Best Fragrance-Free:Naturium Niacinamide Gel Cream 5%
This lightweight, fast-absorbing niacinamide gel cream has a rich texture made with 5% niacinamide and phytonutrients to gently repair and rejuvenate skin. Potent hydrators and advanced emulsifiers make your skin brighter and help you achieve the dewy, poreless, porcelain-like look you’ve always desired. Formulated for sensitive skin, this soothing cream can be used twice daily as the last step in a meticulous skin care routine. This product is free of harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances, making it an ideal choice for people sensitive to scents.
Pros
- Lightweight, gel-based cream
- Free of harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances
- Paraben-free and gluten-free
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons
- This product might not be best suited for those with very dry skin.
10. Best Cruelty-Free:Paula’s Choice Invisible Finish Moisture Gel
Here’s a soothing niacinamide skin cream, which provides rich hydration and restores moisture levels without the weight. The pore-minimizing, lightweight, gel-based formula is non-greasy and instantly refreshes the skin. The skin-calming ingredients include oat extract, which alleviates sensitivity, and licorice extract, which calms redness and defends against environmental stressors. The pore-reducing properties and ultra-light texture make this cream ideal for oily and acne-prone skin. Also, ensure to use the skin care product daily for visible results and natural radiance.
Pros
- Lightweight, non-greasy formula
- Designed for oily, acne prone skin
- Free of parabens and synthetic fragrances
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Might not be best suited for those with sensitive skin
11. Best Paraben-Free:Dermedicine+ 5-In-1 Super-Charged Cream
This versatile retinol and niacinamide cream is ideal for people who are looking for multiple skin-loving ingredients in one convenient package. This therapeutic cream is formulated with high niacinamide concentrations, hyaluronic acid, retinol, vitamin C, and collagen. Together, these powerhouse ingredients improve skin tone and texture for a softer, smoother, more even complexion. The anti-aging benefits of this product make it suitable for those looking to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, and dark spots.
Pros
- Suitable for all skin types
- Free of parabens, sulfates, and harsh chemicals
- Contains no synthetic dyes or fragrances
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Some might find the scent of this product a bit overpowering.
"This 5-in-1 cream makes my skin supple while improving the tone. I can also use it to prep my skin before makeup. It works on smoothing the skin texture and softening the drier parts of the face. It has a pleasant scent that does not irritate my nose."
Now that we have looked at our pick of the 11 best niacinamide creams in 2024, let us look at some things to consider when picking a product best suited to your unique skin requirements.
How To Choose The Best Niacinamide Cream
- Skin type
Niacinamide is a high-powered, versatile ingredient that is beneficial to all skin types. A quick look at the labeling will ensure you pick a product that addresses all your skin concerns. Those with oily and acne-prone skin should choose a cream that is non-comedogenic and doesn’t clog pores. Dry and dehydrated skin will benefit from a product with additional moisturizing and skin-plumping ingredients like hyaluronic acid, coconut oil, and jojoba oil. Those with sensitive skin problems should stick to products that are hypoallergenic and tested by dermatologists for safety.
- Skin concerns
If you’re waking up every morning with tired-looking, puffy eyes, and unsightly dark circles, don’t try to hide behind concealers and foundation. Instead, pick a niacinamide eye cream that will penetrate deep to moisturize, replenish, and re-energize the delicate under-eye area. If a sunburn is what you’re trying to avoid, pick a niacinamide day cream with added broad-spectrum sun protection. A quick analysis of your specific skin concerns will help you choose the best niacinamide cream for your skin care regime.
- Texture
If you’re looking for a day cream that you can apply under your makeup before you quickly dash out of the door, make sure to pick a cream that has a lightweight and fast-absorbing texture so that you don’t spend the entire day blotting your skin. A nourishing night cream that works to repair and rejuvenate skin overnight should have a rich, creamy texture. Depending on the purpose and time of use, pick a niacinamide cream that has the consistency you prefer to ensure your skin is adequately moisturized and hydrated.
Infographic: Tips To Use Niacinamide Creams The Right Way
Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, helps combat hyperpigmentation, soften fine lines and wrinkles, and strengthen the skin barrier. It has several benefits for the skin, but only when you use it in your daily routine the right way. Check out the infographic below to learn more. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Niacinamide creams have many benefits. They can eliminate dullness while brightening your skin. These creams can also help improve your skin’s texture while reducing the appearance of premature signs of aging, such as dark spots, wrinkles, and fine lines. The CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream is a great option for people with sensitive skin, while the La Roche-Posay Double Repair Face Moisturizer provides long-lasting hydration and is suitable for all skin types. The Olay Regenerist Niacinamide + Peptide 24 Hydrating Face Moisturizer strengthens the skin barrier. The fast-absorbing formula in these creams helps your skin feel refreshed and rejuvenated after each wash. Non-greasy and lightweight, niacinamide creams are non-comedogenic and free of unwanted smells as well. The soft and creamy texture in these creams can help soften your skin’s layers while improving your skin tone. However, steer clear of niacinamide creams that leave a shiny residue after use. Also, ensure to do a patch test before application or use dermatologist-recommended creams only if you have sensitive skin type.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are niacinamide creams good for acne?
With regular use, niacinamide creams are great for acne treatment and for blemish reduction, as they minimize the appearance of pimples and spots. The anti-inflammatory properties of niacinamide make it an ideal ingredient in products designed for sensitive, oily skin that is prone to breakouts.
Are niacinamide creams good for breakouts?
Niacinamide creams are an effective topical cream for breakouts and other inflammatory skin conditions like rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis. Niacinamide does not irritate or dry out the skin, making it ideal for those suffering from sensitive skin problems.
Do dermatologists recommend niacinamide?
Dermatologists recommend niacinamide to address skin concerns like visible dark spots, acne, rosacea, pigmentation, wrinkles and reducing the appearance of pores. Its anti-inflammatory properties help with swelling, redness reduction, and the visible signs of aging. Dermatologists generally consider niacinamide safe for topical use and recommend them for all skin types.
Can I use niacinamide cream every day?
Yes, using niacinamide cream every day keeps the skin hydrated and moisturized.
How long does niacinamide cream take to work?
Niacinamide cream shows results within 2-4 weeks when applied twice a day. SOme users see results after 8-12 weeks of use.
Why am I breaking out after using niacinamide?
When the skin has an adverse reaction to an ingredient in niacinamide cream, that might cause a breakout. It usually has nothing to do with niacinamide.
Can niacinamide remove dark spots?
Yes, niacinamide helps to remove dark spots. Some creams can also be used on these spots as spot treatment.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Kirtana Divakar, the author of this article, is a skin care enthusiast and loves reviewing new trends in this field. After careful research and going through numerous user reviews online, she has curated this list of the best niacinamide creams for her readers. She has hand-picked products with great user reviews and top ratings to help you find the most effective products.
