Niacinamide or Vitamin C? The Right Choice for Blemishes and Radiance

Niacinamide and vitamin C are the two most recommended ingredients for a more even, radiant-looking complexion. When it comes to blemishes, uneven skin tone, and dullness, both are effective, but they work in different ways. We're explaining which one is right for you and how to use them together.

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)

Niacinamide is a versatile and gentle ingredient. It helps pores look tighter, supports oil balance and the skin barrier, and over time contributes to a more even-looking skin tone.

• For whom: Combination and oily skin, anyone bothered by the look of pores and blemishes, and sensitive skin.
• When: Can be used morning and evening.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant. It gives skin radiance, helps reduce the look of dullness, and supports the skin against environmental stressors when used with sunscreen. In Korean skincare, it is frequently encountered with yuja (Korean citron) extract.

• For whom: Dull, tired-looking skin and anyone seeking radiance.
• When: Ideally in the morning, under sunscreen.

Can they be used together?

Yes. In modern formulas, niacinamide and vitamin C can easily be used in the same routine. A practical regimen: vitamin C + sunscreen in the morning, niacinamide in the evening. If your skin is sensitive, introduce new products one by one and observe for a few days.

Things to consider

• To see a difference in blemish care, regular use for at least 6–8 weeks is needed.
• Blemish care is incomplete without the use of sunscreen.
• Combining these ingredients in the same evening routine with strong actives like retinol, AHA, and BHA may irritate your skin.

Our recommendation

You can find radiance-focused products in the Parisian Glow selection, and products targeting blemish care in the Blemish collection. Morning radiance or evening balance? If you are undecided, just type "what is niacinamide" or "recommend products for blemishes" to the Beauty consultant at the bottom right.

Note: This article is for general information purposes only. Consult a dermatologist for serious skin problems.