Niacinamide vs. Vitamin C: Which Ingredient is Better for Your Skin?

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If you're even slightly into skincare, you've definitely heard of niacinamide and vitamin C.

But which is better? Do you have to choose? Can they be used together?

The answer is: it depends on your skin and your goal.

Let's clarify scientifically and practically.

What is Niacinamide?

Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 and is considered one of the most multifunctional ingredients in dermatology.

What it does for the skin:

  • Regulates oiliness
  • Reduces the appearance of pores
  • Strengthens the skin barrier
  • Reduces redness & inflammation
  • Helps with post-inflammatory acne marks
  • Improves overall skin texture

  It is one of the few ingredients that are suitable for:

  • oily skin
  • acne-prone skin
  • sensitive skin
  • dry skin (at the right percentage)

What is Vitamin C?

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and a key ingredient for:

  • radiance
  • hyperpigmentation
  • photoaging

There are many forms of it (ascorbic acid, derivatives, etc.).

What it does for the skin:

  • Brightens skin tone
  • Reduces hyperpigmentation & discoloration
  • Boosts collagen synthesis
  • Protects against oxidative stress
  • Gives a more "lively" appearance to the skin

       It is a top choice for:

  • dull skin
  • photoaging
  • uneven skin tone

Can they be used together?

       YES, when:

  • they are in correct percentages
  • they have stable forms
  • the formula's pH is correct

Today, the notion that "they can't be combined" is considered outdated.

      In fact, their combination:

  • improves radiance
  • reduces irritation
  • offers a more balanced result

How to use them correctly

Morning 🌞

  • Vitamin C
  • Niacinamide (low–medium percentage)
  • Sunscreen (essential)

Evening 🌙

  • Niacinamide
  • Hydrating & soothing ingredients

    If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, start with niacinamide and gradually add vitamin C.

Glass Skin Serum - Vitamin C, Niacinamide & Hyaluronic Acid

The Glass Skin Serum combines both ingredients in optimized ratios with hyaluronic acid for comprehensive care.

Final conclusion

There is no "better" ingredient in general.

There is a better choice for your skin.

  • If you have oily skin, acne, pores → Niacinamide
  • If you have hyperpigmentation, dullness, photoaging → Vitamin C
  • If you want a complete result → combination