COSRX The Niacinamide 15 Serum - Best for Acne-Prone and Sensitive Skin
A Korean beauty standout that pairs a substantial niacinamide dose with calming agents, making it exceptionally effective and gentle for calming acne and reducing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
- +15% niacinamide is effective yet gentle, formulated with soothing allantoin and zinc.
- +Minimalist, 15-ingredient formula is fragrance-free and suitable for reactive skin types.
- +Noticeably reduces acne breakouts and accelerates the healing of post-acne marks and scars.
- -The serum has a thin, slightly tacky consistency upon initial application.
- -Packaging is small (0.67 oz), though a little product goes a long way.
- -May not provide significant hydration for very dry skin types on its own.
COSRX The Niacinamide 15 Serum is a masterclass in effective, gentle formulation, particularly for those with acne-prone or sensitive skin. It utilizes a robust 15% concentration of niacinamide to tackle excess oil, inflammation, and discoloration. What sets it apart is its complementary ingredient list, which includes zinc for additional oil control and antibacterial action, and allantoin, a well-known soothing and healing agent that mitigates potential irritation. This combination makes the serum remarkably calming, even as it works actively to clear breakouts and fade the red or brown marks they leave behind.
The formula is fragrance-free and avoids common irritants, aligning with K-beauty principles of skin barrier support. Users report not only a reduction in active acne but also a significant improvement in the skin's overall evenness as old scars diminish. The texture is lightweight and absorbs relatively quickly, though it can feel a bit sticky before fully drying down. It is an excellent choice for anyone who has found other acne treatments too harsh or drying, as it addresses the root causes of breakouts while nurturing and strengthening the skin's protective barrier.