Can you use niacinamide with retinol?
Yes, and this is one of the best pairings in skincare. Niacinamide actively reduces retinol-related irritation while both deliver complementary benefits.
Why
Niacinamide reduces transepidermal water loss and calms inflammation, mitigating retinol's main side effect. Many modern retinol products formulate niacinamide into the same product for this reason.
How to layer them
Layer niacinamide first (it's water-based), then retinol after 30-60 seconds. Or use a single product that contains both. Apply at night, follow with a barrier-supporting moisturiser. Use SPF every morning regardless.
Pro tip
If you're new to retinol, niacinamide is the first ingredient to add to soften the adjustment phase.
Products that contain both niacinamide and retinol
These products formulate both ingredients together — the chemistry is balanced for you.
- 1
LancômeRenergie C.R.X. Triple Serum Retinol
9.7 - 2
innisfreeGentle Retinol + Salicylic Acid Acne Serum for Blemishes + Post-Acne Scars
9.6 - 3
Shani Darden Skin CareRetinol Reform® with 1% Encapsulated Retinol for Fine Lines & Wrinkles
9.5 - 4
Kiehl's Since 1851Micro-Dose Anti-Aging Retinol Serum with Ceramides & Peptide
9.3 - 5
innisfreeDaily Korean Gentle Retinol + Salicylic Acid Soothing Toner Pads for Acne-Prone Skin
9.3 - 6
innisfreeRetinol Green Tea PDRN™ Firming & Smoothing Serum-Infused Mask
9.2 - 7
innisfreeRetinol Green Tea PDRN™ Korean Firming & Smoothing Serum for Slow-Aging
9.1 - 8DDrunk Elephant
A-Passioni Retinol Cream
9.1
Frequently asked questions
Can you use niacinamide with retinol?
Yes, and this is one of the best pairings in skincare. Niacinamide actively reduces retinol-related irritation while both deliver complementary benefits.
What happens if you mix niacinamide and retinol?
Niacinamide reduces transepidermal water loss and calms inflammation, mitigating retinol's main side effect. Many modern retinol products formulate niacinamide into the same product for this reason.
How should you layer niacinamide and retinol?
Layer niacinamide first (it's water-based), then retinol after 30-60 seconds. Or use a single product that contains both. Apply at night, follow with a barrier-supporting moisturiser. Use SPF every morning regardless.
What's the best way to use niacinamide and retinol together?
If you're new to retinol, niacinamide is the first ingredient to add to soften the adjustment phase.