In what order? Niacinamide (B3) + Retinaldehyde (Retinal) + Ceramides
The optimal order for Niacinamide (B3), Retinaldehyde (Retinal), Ceramides is: Niacinamide (B3) → Retinaldehyde (Retinal) → Ceramides. Apply thinnest to thickest, low-pH actives first, oils last — the Korean barrier-friendly way.
Apply in this order
Niacinamide (B3)Retinaldehyde (Retinal)Ceramides⚗️ Check any combo →
Related K-beauty guides
Try the free tools
🙋 People also ask
What order do you apply Korean skincare?
A general Korean order goes thinnest to thickest: cleanse, then toner, essence, serum or ampoule, eye cream, moisturizer, and sunscreen last in the morning. Lighter, watery layers go on first so they absorb, with richer creams and sun protection sealing everything in.
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 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 The old warning that they cancel out is largely outdated.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 are ceramides in skincare?
Ceramides are lipids that naturally make up part of the skin barrier, helping it hold moisture and stay resilient. In Korean skincare they're used to support and replenish a comfortable, hydrated barrier, especially for dry or sensitive skin, and pair well with centella and panthenol.
✍️ Written & reviewed by the KoreaPlus Editorial team — dermatologist-informed, cosmetic-science researched & source-cited. Last reviewed: 2026-08-23.
General educational information using cosmetic structure-function wording — not medical advice. Always patch-test new actives. © KoreaPlus.