Niacinamide & Vitamin C Used Together In Skincare

Niacinamide and vitamin C serum supports brighter, more even skin by addressing tone, texture, and signs of ageing. Many adults notice clearer radiance when these ingredients are introduced correctly.

This article explains how vitamin C and niacinamide serum works, why they complement each other, and how evidence supports their combined role in routines that promote radiant skin [1,2].

Niacinamide & Vitamin C Synergy

Niacinamide supports calm, balanced skin, while vitamin C serum protects against environmental stress and promotes brightness. When used together, they address dark spots and support clarity [1,2].

Evidence shows that niacinamide helps reduce pigment transfer, while vitamin C serum supports reduced melanin production. Certain delivery methods have shown enhanced brightening when both are combined [1].

Understanding Niacinamide

Niacinamide is a water soluble form of vitamin B3 suitable for dry, oily, or sensitive skin. It supports moisture retention, reduces visible redness, and helps regulate sebum production [3].

Research shows that topical niacinamide supports improved texture, enhanced elasticity, and reduced fine lines, helping skin appear smoother and more radiant with consistent use [4].

Understanding Vitamin C

Vitamin C serum protects against oxidative stress linked with UV exposure and environmental factors. It supports collagen production that helps maintain firmness and elasticity [5].

Reviews indicate that vitamin C serum helps brighten the skin by reducing tyrosinase activity, encouraging improvements in dark spots and promoting a luminous appearance [2].

Reasons To Combine Both

The combined use of vitamin C and niacinamide benefits skin by offering complementary mechanisms. Vitamin C protects and brightens, while niacinamide soothes and stabilises the barrier [1,2].

A study reported enhanced lightening when both ingredients were delivered together, indicating potential synergy for pigmentation and clarity beyond individual use [1].

Key Benefits

Table 1: Main combined benefits

Enhanced Skin Brightening

Both ingredients support a more even tone. Niacinamide helps reduce redness and dark spots, while vitamin C serum enhances clarity. This combination can support noticeable brightness with regular use [1].

Improved Skin Barrier

Niacinamide supports ceramide production that helps the skin barrier maintain hydration. Vitamin C protects against environmental stress, making this combination suitable for maintaining resilience [3,6].

Anti Ageing Benefits

Vitamin C supports collagen synthesis that maintains firmness, while niacinamide helps smooth texture and enhances elasticity. Together they support a more youthful appearance [4,5].

Reduced Inflammation & Redness

Niacinamide supports reduced redness and calming of irritated areas. Vitamin C serum also offers mild anti inflammatory benefits. Combined use can support a smoother, more balanced complexion [3,8].

Additional Considerations

Hyaluronic acid complements this combination by supporting hydration and reducing dryness. Stable formulations help ensure comfortable use and minimise irritation for sensitive skin types [3,6,9].

Using Niacinamide & Vitamin C

A serum containing both simplifies application and helps maintain consistency. Studies support the benefits of combined formulations for clarity and texture [6].

Those preferring separate products may apply vitamin C serum first, followed by niacinamide. Stable formulations support safe layering and maximise comfort [9].

Routine Timing

Vitamin C serum is often used in the morning to help protect against daily stressors [5]. Niacinamide can be used morning or evening, supporting flexibility for sensitive or acne prone skin.

Potential Side Effects

Most people tolerate both ingredients well, though very sensitive skin may require gradual introduction. Patch testing can help ensure comfort before consistent use [9].

Personalised Skincare With Monderma

Monderma offers prescription skincare for acne, signs of ageing, pigmentation, and rosacea, using active ingredients such as tretinoin, azelaic acid, and hydroquinone. Each treatment is tailored to individual goals.

Conclusion

Niacinamide and vitamin C offer a supportive approach for brightening, calming, and reducing signs of ageing. Evidence highlights improvements in texture, clarity, and tone with consistent use [1–8].

Those seeking tailored support for their skin can explore options through our expert skincare consultation, where prescribers guide personalised care.

Content is for informational purposes only. Monderma treatments are prescribed following consultation. Results and timeframes can vary. Use as directed by your prescriber.

References

1. Hakozaki T, Takiwaki H, Miyamoto K, Sato Y, Arase S. Ultrasound Enhanced Skin Lightening Effect Of Vitamin C And Niacinamide. Skin Research And Technology. 2006.
2. Pullar JM, Carr AC, Vissers MCM. The Roles Of Vitamin C In Skin Health. Nutrients. 2017.
3. Gehring W. Nicotinic Acid Niacinamide And The Skin. Journal Of Cosmetic Dermatology. 2004.
4. Bissett DL, Oblong JE, Berge CA. Niacinamide And Ageing Skin. Dermatologic Surgery. 2005.
5. Farris PK. Topical Vitamin C And Photoageing. Dermatologic Surgery. 2005.
6. Tanno O, Ota Y, Kitamura N, Katsube T, Inoue S. Nicotinamide And Ceramide Biosynthesis. British Journal Of Dermatology. 2000.
7. Walocko FM, Eber AE, Keri JE, Al Harbi MA, Nouri K. Role Of Nicotinamide In Acne Treatment. Dermatologic Therapy. 2017.
8. Levin J, Momin SB. Cosmeceutical Ingredient Evidence. Journal Of Clinical And Aesthetic Dermatology. 2010.
9. Hakozaki T, Takiwaki H. Stability And Delivery Considerations. Skin Research And Technology. 2006.