Niacinamide 20% Treatment

A highly concentrated niacinamide (vitamin B3) serum that effectively tightens and minimizes the look of enlarged pores and rough bumps caused by age or sun damage.

• Dramatically reduces the look of enlarged pores
• Helps reduce hard, clogged bumps & orange-peel texture
• Visibly improves blotchy tone & fades post-blemish marks

Niacinamide has a normalizing ability on the pore lining. This plays a role in helping to keep oil and debris from getting backed up, which leads to clogs and rough, bumpy skin. Learn more about niacinamide benefits.

Apply a few drops once or twice daily after cleansing, toning, and exfoliating.

Dispense 1–2 drops into palms, apply to face, neck and chest. Follow with other treatment products and moisturizer. For daytime, finish with a sunscreen rated SPF 30 or greater.

Niacinamide, Acetyl Glucosamine, Purslane, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Ascorbyl Glucoside

What’s the difference between the CLINICAL Niacinamide 20% Treatment and 10% Niacinamide Booster and which should I use?

Both formulas feature niacinamide, but they’re designed for different needs. In addition to the higher concentration of niacinamide (20% vs. 10%), our 20% Niacinamide has a slightly thicker texture and includes a different blend of supporting antioxidants to help address excess oil and the look of enlarged pores over time.
You may prefer Niacinamide 20% if you’re targeting more advanced concerns such as the look of stretched pores, orange peel-like texture, or persistent oil-related bumps. If your main concerns are the look of enlarged pores and uneven skin tone, the 10% strength may be a better fit. If your concerns vary across your face, you can also spot-apply or alternate between the two based on your skin’s needs.

Can I use Niacinamide 20% Treatment with other products containing niacinamide?

Yes, you can use the Niacinamide 20% Treatment with other niacinamide products including serums and moisturizers, layering them in order from thinnest to thickest texture. You can also alternate their use if you find that suits your skin’s needs.

Can niacinamide cause sensitivity, redness or irritation?

Niacinamide typically doesn’t cause redness, sensitivity or irritation, although some people experience a brief flushing when pure niacinamide and vitamin C are used together. This combination can convert niacinamide to niacin, which may trigger temporary redness. Cosmetic chemists carefully formulate to avoid this concern, and even in a lab setting the conversion requires a significant amount of time and heat before it occurs. For those with a known sensitivity to niacinamide or with extra-sensitive skin in general, we suggest introducing the product slowly for the first two weeks, then increase gradually if desired.

Can I use niacinamide every day?

Yes, you can safely use niacinamide every day. Applying niacinamide products daily will provide the most consistent results.

Is niacinamide better morning or night?

For best results, you can use niacinamide in the morning and at night. You can also alternate its use if you find that works better for you.

What can you not mix with niacinamide?

While there are a lot of myths and misinformation about which ingredients you supposedly can’t mix with niacinamide, research shows that you can use niacinamide with retinol, vitamin C, hydroxy acids and other skin care ingredients safely.

Is 20% niacinamide too strong?

While 20% niacinamide is potent, the independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel has concluded that it is safe to use concentrations up to this amount. Individual responses may vary so if you have a known niacinamide sensitivity or extra-sensitive skin, we recommend patch testing first, and incorporating it slowly into your routine, watching how your skin responds.

What is “orange peel” skin?

Orange-peel texture refers to a condition where the skin appears thicker, has oversized (stretched) pores and an uneven, rough or bumpy texture like an orange peel. Learn more about orange peel skin in our article.

Is niacinamide safe during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

Niacinamide is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, making it one of the few active ingredients suitable for use during this time. As with any new product, consult your healthcare provider before adding it to your routine.

Can the CLINICAL Niacinamide 20% Treatment cause breakouts?

Niacinamide doesn’t increase cell turnover the way retinol or exfoliating acids can, so it’s less likely to cause “purging.” That said, some people may experience a brief adjustment period when starting a higher concentration. If you notice breakouts or irritation, reduce use to once daily or every other day and give your skin time to adjust. If symptoms persist, discontinue use.

Does the CLINICAL Niacinamide 20% Treatment layer well under makeup?

Yes, the lightweight gel texture absorbs quickly and layers smoothly under moisturizer, sunscreen and makeup without pilling, or leaving a sticky residue. Apply a few drops after cleansing and toning, let it absorb, then continue with the rest of your routine.