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Vitamin B3

Niacinamide

What it is

A water-soluble form of vitamin B3 that works well across most skin types and pairs with many actives.

What it does

Supports a healthy-looking barrier, helps reduce the appearance of excess oil and enlarged pores, and can improve the look of uneven tone and post-blemish marks over time.

Where it appears

Serums, moisturizers, toners — stable in water-based formulas; usually 2–10%.

Who may benefit

Oily, combination, breakout-prone, and sensitive clients; those concerned with tone or pore appearance.

Considerations

Generally well tolerated. Some report flushing when layered with acidic (low-pH) products — separate if irritation appears.

Common misconceptions

It does not 'thin' the skin and does not require a waiting period before other products.

Interactions

Can be used alongside retinoids, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides. If irritation occurs, avoid layering directly with strong acids in the same step.

How Willow talks about it

Explain it as a calm multitasker — supports the barrier and evens tone without the intensity of acids or retinoids.