Let’s talk about niacinamide—the ingredient that completely changed how I deal with oily skin and large pores.
Before I discovered it, my T-zone would get greasy by noon and my pores looked like craters (seriously!). One day, my friend Amanda casually said, “Try a niacinamide serum. It helps balance oil and even shrinks the look of pores.”
I was skeptical, but I gave it a try. Within two weeks, my skin felt smoother, less oily, and my makeup lasted longer.
In this guide, I’ll break down the best niacinamide serums I’ve tried (or my friends have) that actually work for oil control and minimizing pores.
What is Niacinamide & Why Does Your Skin Love It?
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is a powerhouse ingredient, especially for oily or combination skin. Here’s why:
- Controls oil production
- Minimizes appearance of pores
- Brightens dark spots
- Calms redness and inflammation
- Strengthens your skin barrier
How to Use Niacinamide Serum Correctly
Use it after cleansing and toning, but before moisturizing.
If you’re using Vitamin C, it’s best to apply niacinamide at night, and Vitamin C in the morning to avoid any potential irritation.
Best Niacinamide Serums for Pores and Oil Control (2025)
1. The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
This was my first niacinamide serum—and it’s still one of my favorites.
- Super affordable
- 10% niacinamide + 1% zinc = great for oily, acne-prone skin
- Within 10 days, my pores looked smaller and skin felt more balanced
2. Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster
My friend Amanda uses this one religiously.
- Lightweight and fast-absorbing
- Perfect for layering with other serums
- Her oily forehead barely needs blotting now
3. Naturium Niacinamide Serum 12% + Zinc 2%
I tried this after watching rave TikTok reviews.
- Clean, minimal ingredients
- No fragrance
- Helped control shine and made my skin tone more even within 2 weeks
4. Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops
Perfect if you want skincare + glow in one step.
- Doubles as a serum and highlighter
- Gives a dewy “glass skin” effect
- I use it under makeup when I’m heading out with friends—it keeps oil at bay but still gives a glow
5. The Inkey List Niacinamide Serum
My cousin in Arizona uses this one—she has oily and acne-prone skin.
- Budget-friendly
- Soothes breakouts
- Reduced her redness and made her skin texture smoother
How I Personally Use Niacinamide in My Routine
Here’s my step-by-step:
- Cleanser (gentle foaming one)
- Toner (optional)
- 2–3 drops of niacinamide serum – gently press into skin
- Let it sit for a minute
- Apply moisturizer
- In the morning, finish with SPF 50
FAQs About Niacinamide Serums
❓ Can I use niacinamide every day?
Yes! You can use it both morning and night.
❓ Can I pair niacinamide with other actives?
Yes, but be careful with high-strength acids and Vitamin C. Patch test when in doubt.
❓ Will it permanently shrink my pores?
No serum can permanently shrink pores, but niacinamide can reduce oil and tighten skin—making pores look smaller.
Final Thoughts
If oily skin and visible pores are your struggles, niacinamide is your best friend. Start simple with one of the serums above, use it consistently, and in a few weeks—you’ll notice smoother, more balanced, and less shiny skin.