Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): what it is in skincare
A versatile vitamin B3 that helps brighten, support the moisture barrier, and minimize the look of pores.
What it does
Function: brightening / barrier support. Brightening actives target the look of dark spots and uneven tone for a more radiant, even finish.
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How to spot it on a label
On a Korean product's INCI list, look for Niacinamide (Vitamin B3). Ingredients are listed high-to-low by amount, so its position hints at how much is in the formula. See all brightening actives →
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Can you use vitamin C and niacinamide together?
Yes, current understanding is that vitamin C and niacinamide can be used together safely, and many Korean formulas combine them. The old warning that they cancel out is largely outdated. If your skin is sensitive, you can still apply them at different times of day to be cautious.
What does niacinamide do?
Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 widely used in Korean skincare to help brighten the look of dullness, refine the appearance of pores and support the skin barrier. It's gentle, well tolerated by most skin types and pairs easily with many other ingredients.
Can I use vitamin C and retinol together?
Not in the same layer, but easily in the same routine — vitamin C in the morning, retinol at night. That split suits both: vitamin C partners with sunscreen, and retinoids are degraded by light.
✍️ Written & reviewed by the KoreaPlus Editorial team — dermatologist-informed, cosmetic-science researched & source-cited. Last reviewed: 2026-08-08.
General educational information using cosmetic structure-function wording — not medical advice. Always patch-test new actives. © KoreaPlus.