When To Use Niacinamide Serum For Maximum Skincare Benefits

In the ever-growing world of skincare, niacinamide has made a name for itself as a powerhouse ingredient. Known for its versatility and gentle nature, it’s loved by skincare beginners and experts alike. But while the benefits of niacinamide are widely appreciated, like refining pores, balancing oil, improving uneven skin tone, and strengthening the skin barrier, many people still wonder: When to apply niacinamide serum for maximum benefits? Should it go in your AM routine or be reserved for PM care? Let’s break it down to help you incorporate niacinamide serum at the right time in your skincare routine.

When To Use Niacinamide Serum Day Or Night?

AM Application Of Niacinamide Serums

Using niacinamide in the morning can help your skin better cope with daily environmental stressors such as pollution, UV rays, and external aggressors.

Here’s why applying niacinamide in the morning works well:

• Strengthens the Skin Barrier: Starting your day with niacinamide helps fortify your skin barrier, which protects against environmental irritants.
• Reduces Oil Production: If you experience oiliness or shine during the day, niacinamide helps control sebum and keeps your skin looking fresh.
• Boosts Antioxidant Protection: While niacinamide is not a traditional antioxidant like vitamin C, it does offer antioxidant-like protection. It can be an excellent alternative if vitamin C is harsh for your skin.
• Pairs Well With Sunscreen: Niacinamide can enhance the protective benefits of your sunscreen by improving skin resilience and soothing inflammation caused by sun exposure.

How To Apply Niacinamide In The AM?

• Step 1: Cleanse your face with a gentle face wash
• Step 2: Apply a hydrating toner or essence (optional)
• Step 3: Apply your niacinamide serum to slightly damp skin
• Step 4: Follow it with a lightweight day cream
• Step 5: Finish with a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30

If you already use vitamin C in the morning and are wondering if you can use niacinamide and vitamin C together, the answer is yes! These two ingredients are compatible and can complement each other when layered properly.

PM Application Of Niacinamide Serums

Nighttime is when your skin enters repair mode, and that’s where niacinamide can shine.

Here’s why niacinamide is beneficial in your night-time routine:

1. Supports Skin Recovery: After a long day of exposure to sun, stress, and pollutants, your skin benefits from the calming and restorative effects of niacinamide.
2. Fades Pigmentation & Brightens Skin: Niacinamide works gradually to reduce dark spots and pigmentation. Using it consistently at night may help enhance these effects over time.
3. Combats Acne & Blemishes: Niacinamide is anti-inflammatory and helps reduce redness and irritation from acne. Applying it at night can work alongside actives like salicylic acid or retinol to calm the skin.
4. Hydration Booster: It helps improve the skin’s ability to retain moisture, especially when paired with products like hyaluronic acid serum or a nourishing night cream.

How To Apply Niacinamide In The PM?

• Step 1: Begin with a foaming facial cleanser to remove makeup and impurities
• Step 2: Use a toner or essence if you like
• Step 3: Apply your niacinamide serum
• Step 4: Follow with other treatments if needed (retinol, spot treatments, etc.)
• Step 5: Lock in moisture with a hydrating night cream

If you're using more intense actives like retinol or acids, niacinamide can help buffer their effects and reduce potential irritation.


So, when to use niacinamide serum, day or night? The answer depends on your skincare needs, but the great thing is that niacinamide is versatile enough to be used in both. If you’re just getting started, you might want to pick either AM or PM and build consistency. Over time, you can comfortably use it twice a day, provided your skin tolerates it well.

Whether you're looking to brighten your complexion, reduce redness, control oil, or strengthen your skin barrier, incorporating niacinamide serum at the right time can help you maximise its benefits. Just remember to follow up with a good moisturiser and sun protection during the day, and your skin will thank you! Browse through a wide range of Lancôme skincare products and include the vitamin C and hyaluronic acid serum in your daily skincare regimen to achieve the best of both worlds. Additionally, you can also head to the Lancôme E-Skin Expert tool to find your personalised skincare solution from the comfort of your home, without having to spend a penny. That’s not it. Explore our skincare beauty magazine guide to learn about skincare tips, tricks, ingredients and more.