Niacinamide 20% Serum Description

This is a high-strength vitamin B3 serum designed to target multiple skin concerns: enlarged pores, oil excess, acne/post-acne marks, dull uneven tone, and early signs of ageing. According to the product info, the serum is formulated with a 20% concentration of niacinamide and a very high percentage of active ingredients (~92.5%).

The inclusion of Damask rose water (64.5%) adds soothing/hydrating support to the formula.

It’s positioned as a no-frills, “science-backed” formula with no fragrance and no parabens (in some listings).

Format:

Product type: Serum (treatment step)

Typical volume: 30 ml (some listings mention 30ml or 80ml sizes)

Packaging: Usually a dropper or pump bottle (depending on market) — the local Nigerian listings don’t always specify but the key is it’s a concentrated serum.

Sensory Profile:

Texture/Feel: Lightweight, quickly absorbing; initial feel of hydration then fairly matte or balanced (versus heavy-oil) according to one description: “When used, it immediately feels richly hydrated at first, and then the skin gets filled with abundant moisture. Lately, the oily feeling quickly disappears.”

Finish: Likely satin to slightly matte due to oil-control claims (refining pores, controlling shine).

Scent: Some listings say “no fragrance”.

But always check your regional version (sometimes “fragrance-free” varies).

Skin Feel Post Application: Skin should feel smoother, more even, less shiny; visible pore texture may reduce; overall complexion clearer.

Wears & Suggestions:

When to use: After cleansing (and toner/essence if you use), before moisturizer. Use both AM and/or PM depending on your routine and skin tolerance.

Who it’s for: Particularly good for oily, combination, acne-prone or dull/uneven skin types with visible pores and oil/shininess. Also suited for those wanting to fade post-acne marks or brighten tone.

How often: Because of the high 20% concentration, start maybe every other day or PM only until skin tolerance is established, then you might move to daily.

Layering: In the morning, you’d do: Cleanser → toner/essence → this serum → moisturizer → SPF (sunscreen). In the evening: Cleanser → toner → this serum → moisturizer.

Makeup Base: Because it addresses excess oil and refines pores, this serum could be a good prep base for makeup in the morning, under a moisturizer and primer.

Helpful Tips

Patch test first: With high-strength actives (20% niacinamide is significant), try on a small area for 1-2 nights to check for irritation.

Introduce gradually: If your skin is not used to strong actives, start with alternate nights or PM only, then increase.

Use sunscreen every morning: The brightening/repair effects of niacinamide are supported by UV protection; if you skip SPF, you may counteract some benefits.

Avoid layering potentially conflicting actives: For example, using very strong AHAs/BHAs, or pure vitamin C at high % simultaneously may overload the skin; give spacing or alternate nights.

Storage: Keep the product in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain ingredient stability.

Don’t expect overnight miracles: While strong, visible results (e.g., pore refinement, brightness) typically take several weeks of consistent use.

Watch for over-use irritation: If you experience persistent redness, stinging, or breakouts when introducing a new active, reduce frequency and buffer with a gentle moisturizer.

Combine sensibly: If you have a separate hydrating serum (e.g., hyaluronic acid) you can apply that first, then this serum, then moisturizer. This supports skin barrier and may enhance tolerability.