Niacinamide is one of the most versatile ingredients in skincare. It has been studied for shine, uneven tone, fine lines, texture and the skin barrier, and it shows up across all of them. So why did we choose 10%?
Here's what the research shows about niacinamide, and the thinking behind our signature first step.
What does niacinamide do for skin?
Niacinamide, also called nicotinamide, is a form of vitamin B3. Unlike many actives, it's a multitasker: it works on oil, tone, texture and barrier at the same time, and it plays well with almost every other ingredient in a routine.
Shine and oil
A 2006 clinical investigation of 2% niacinamide included a placebo-controlled study of 100 participants, in which the niacinamide group showed significantly lower sebum excretion after treatment. A second split-face study saw improvement in surface oil.
Less surface oil means a more matte finish and pores that look less noticeable.
Uneven tone and dark spots
A 2002 study found that niacinamide interrupts the transfer of pigment between skin cells, the step that makes spots visible on the surface. In human facial studies with 5% and 2% niacinamide, researchers reported improvements in hyperpigmentation compared with controls.
Fine lines, texture and redness
In a 12-week, double-blind, split-face study of 50 women, a moisturizer with 5% niacinamide improved fine lines, spots, texture and red blotchiness compared with its control. One ingredient, four visible improvements.
Breakout-prone skin
In a 2013 randomized, double-blind study of 80 people with inflammatory acne, a 4% nicotinamide gel improved acne scores comparably to a 1% clindamycin gel. It's one more reason niacinamide is a favorite for oily, breakout-prone skin.
The skin barrier
A 2000 study found that nicotinamide increased production of ceramides and other barrier lipids in skin cells, and that topical application reduced water loss from dry skin. A stronger barrier means skin that stays hydrated and comfortable.
Why we chose 10%
The research shows niacinamide delivering results at 2%, 4% and 5%. We formulated at 10% to give skin a generous, concentrated dose of an ingredient that works on so many concerns at once, while keeping the formula comfortable enough to use morning and night.
Comfort was the other half of the brief. Glycerin, sodium hyaluronate and propanediol hydrate as the niacinamide works, while allantoin, chamomile extract and bamboo ferment keep the formula calm. Concentrated and comfortable: that's what makes it a step you'll actually use every day.
Meet the 10% Niacinamide Serum
Our 10% Niacinamide Serum is our signature first step. It refines the look of pores, balances shine and evens out skin tone in one lightweight, fast-absorbing serum.
Lock it in with our Peptide Barrier Moisturizer, and add the Dead Sea Mud Purifying Mask once or twice a week when skin needs a deeper reset.
How to use niacinamide
- Cleanse, then apply a few drops of serum to dry skin, morning and night.
- Moisturize on top.
- Morning: finish with broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher.
- Reactive skin? Patch test first and start once a day.
Frequently asked questions
Does 10% niacinamide help with pores?
Yes. By reducing surface oil and smoothing texture, it refines the look of visible pores.
Can I use niacinamide with vitamin C or retinol?
Yes. Niacinamide layers well with both. Use vitamin C in the morning and retinol at night, with niacinamide in either routine.
Can I use it every day?
Yes, morning and night. It's designed for daily use.
Is it good for breakout-prone skin?
Yes. Its effect on oil and its calming companions make it a natural fit for oily, breakout-prone skin. For persistent or painful acne, see a dermatologist.
The Domi Effect: one step, many results
Balance the oil, and pores look smaller. Even the tone, and skin looks brighter. Strengthen the barrier, and everything after it works better. That's why 10% niacinamide is where so many Domi routines begin.