Niacinamide Gel Cream 5%
Quick take: Lightweight gel cream with 5% niacinamide plus humectants and soothing agents to balance oil, even tone, and hydrate without a greasy feel.
Last updated: 2024-05-20 • Changelog: Added FAQ, usage order, safety notes.
What it is
A featherlight gel cream that delivers hydration while 5% niacinamide helps refine the look of pores, balance shine, and support a more even-looking complexion.
Who it's for
- Oily, combination, or normal skin wanting non-greasy hydration and tone-evening support.
- Sensitive or blemish-prone users looking for a moderate (5%) niacinamide strength.
- Those layering under sunscreen or makeup who need a fast-absorbing finish.
Key ingredients (INCI)
- Niacinamide (5%) — supports balanced oil look, more even tone, and refined appearance of pores.
- Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate — humectants to attract and hold water for plumpness.
- Panthenol — helps soothe and reinforce barrier feel.
- Light emollients — provide slip without a heavy or oily residue.
Free-from / texture
- Fragrance-free, alcohol-free base.
- Gel-cream texture that absorbs quickly to a satin, non-sticky finish.
- Layers cleanly under sunscreen and makeup.
How to use & order
- Apply after serums on clean skin, morning and/or night.
- Use a pea-sized amount; press in gently and allow to absorb before sunscreen or makeup.
- Adjust amount based on oiliness and season; layer more at night if needed.
Conflicts & layering tips
- Compatible with vitamin C, retinoids, and exfoliating acids; reduce active frequency if irritation occurs.
- Avoid heavy occlusives underneath; apply occlusives after if extra sealing is needed.
- Always use broad-spectrum SPF in the morning when using actives in your routine.
Evidence & notes
- Niacinamide at 5% is well-studied for supporting barrier function, balanced oil appearance, and more even tone.
- Humectant + emollient pairing helps reduce transepidermal water loss when sealed with sunscreen or a light occlusive.
- Fragrance-free formulas are often better tolerated by sensitive or congestion-prone skin.
Safety
- For external use only; discontinue if redness or irritation occurs.
- Patch test before first use, especially if sensitive to niacinamide.
- Do not apply on compromised or broken skin without professional guidance.
- Pregnancy/breastfeeding: cosmetic ingredients; consult your clinician for personal advice.
FAQ
Q. Can I layer this with vitamin C or retinoids?
A. Yes. Apply vitamin C on clean skin, let it absorb, then layer this gel cream. For retinoids, apply them first on dry skin, then follow with this to buffer dryness.
Q. Is 5% niacinamide suitable for sensitive skin?
A. 5% is generally well-tolerated. Patch test first and start once daily if you’re sensitive, then increase as tolerated.
Q. Will it pill under sunscreen or makeup?
A. Use a thin layer, let it absorb fully, then apply sunscreen or makeup. Reduce amount if you notice pilling.
Licensing
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