Can You Use Retinol With Niacinamide?

Every strong force needs its steady anchor—and this is a sentiment that extends beyond the nautical world and into skincare, particularly when it comes to layering. Some of the best ingredients are powerful heavy-hitters, so it can help to mix in a soothing, complementary ingredient to help alleviate any unwanted side effects.
Retinol is an ingredient loved by dermatologists and amateur enthusiasts alike and fortunately, it comes in a variety of concentrations. Picking a lighter ingredient and pairing it with an anti-inflammatory and gentler active, such as niacinamide, is a great way for those with damaged or sensitive skin to get in on the hype, in a safe way.

Can you use retinol with niacinamide?

Yes – and they work together quite well
Retinol is a powerhouse for tackling fine lines, acne, and uneven skin texture—but it often comes with irritation. That’s where niacinamide steps in. It helps soothe the skin, reduce redness, and strengthen the barrier—making retinol easier to tolerate.

Together, they create a potent yet balanced routine that delivers results without sacrificing skin comfort.

What Does Retinol Do For Skin?

Retinol, a vitamin A derivative, accelerates cell turnover and boosts collagen production. It targets concerns like acne, wrinkles, and rough texture, making it a staple in advanced skincare routines.

Key benefits of retinol include:

• Stimulates Cell Turnover: Encourages fresh, smooth skin
• Reduces Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Boosts collagen for firmer skin
• Clears Acne: Unclogs pores and normalises skin function
• Evens Tone: Fades dark spots and post-acne marks
• Refines Texture: Smooths rough patches and bumps
• Firms Skin: Improves elasticity and reduces sagging

(Source: Healthline, Cleaveland)

Retinol: Best for ageing, textured, or acne-prone skin

• Ageing Skin: Smooths wrinkles and restores bounce
• Acne-Prone Skin: Prevents and treats breakouts
• Uneven Skin Tone: Fades sun spots and discolouration
• Dull Skin: Encourages radiant cell turnover

What Does Niacinamide Do For Skin?

Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is a barrier-boosting, inflammation-reducing ingredient that plays a key support role in any routine, especially when using stronger actives like retinol.

Key benefits of niacinamide include:

• Reduces Redness: Calms irritation and soothes sensitivity
• Controls Oil Production: Balances sebum without over-drying
• Strengthens Skin Barrier: Supports hydration and resilience
• Brightens Skin: Fades hyperpigmentation and improves clarity
• Minimises Pores: Refines texture and helps with congestion
• Supports Recovery: Helps reduce retinol-induced side effects

(Source: Healthline, Wikipedia)

Niacinamide: Best for oily, sensitive, or compromised skin

• Sensitive Skin: Reduces inflammation and enhances barrier
• Blemish-Prone Skin: Fights congestion and post-acne marks
• Dry or Irritated Skin: Restores moisture and soothes flaking
• Dull or Uneven Skin: Promotes smoother, more radiant tone

Why Do Retinol And Niacinamide Work Well Together?

Retinol can be transformational—but it’s also notoriously harsh when introduced too quickly. Niacinamide helps reduce common retinol side effects like redness, flakiness, and dryness. It acts as a buffer, soothing the skin while allowing retinol to work its magic.

Used together, they balance performance with protection.

When used together correctly, this duo provides:

• Barrier Support: Niacinamide counteracts dryness and irritation
• Enhanced Tolerance: Helps skin adapt to retinol faster
• Brightened + Firm Skin: Dual action on tone, texture, and elasticity
• Smoother Complexion: Fewer breakouts, less congestion, more glow

Retinol Also Works Well With:

• Peptides – help rebuild skin structure and reduce fine lines
• Ceramides – restore barrier and lock in moisture
• Hyaluronic Acid – hydrates and reduces flaking

Niacinamide Also Works Well With:

• Zinc – regulates oil and reduces inflammation
• Azelaic Acid – brightens and soothes
• Panthenol – strengthens skin and supports healing

How To Apply Retinol And Niacinamide Together

1. Cleanse: Start with a gentle, non-stripping cleanser.
2. Apply Niacinamide: Apply a niacinamide serum first to hydrate and prep the skin.
3. Apply Retinol: Once niacinamide has absorbed, apply a pea-sized amount of retinol.
4. Moisturise: Seal everything in with a nourishing, non-comedogenic moisturiser.
5. SPF (AM Use): Always apply sunscreen in the morning, especially when using retinol at night.

Tip: Use every other night at first to build tolerance. Buffer with moisturiser if needed.

A.M.

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Comparing Retinol And Niacinamide Side-By-Side

• Boosts collagen: Retinol ✅ Increases collagen synthesis | Niacinamide ⚠ Supports elasticity indirectly
  
• Reduces pigmentation: Retinol ✅ Fades dark spots and melasma | Niacinamide ✅ Brightens and evens tone
  
• Controls oil: Retinol ⚠ May increase dryness initially | Niacinamide ✅ Regulates sebum
  
• Soothes irritation: Retinol ❌ Can cause irritation | Niacinamide ✅ Calms and restores
  
• Improves skin texture: Retinol ✅ Smooths rough patches | Niacinamide ✅ Refines and softens
  
• Anti-ageing: Retinol ✅ Powerful wrinkle treatment | Niacinamide ✅ Preventative and reparative
  
• Suitable for sensitive skin: Retinol ⚠ Needs careful intro | Niacinamide ✅ Gentle and barrier-supportive

FAQs

Should I apply retinol or niacinamide first?
Apply niacinamide first—it helps hydrate, strengthen the barrier and reduce the chances of irritation from retinol.

Can I use them together every day?
If your skin tolerates it, yes. Start with every other night and gradually increase frequency.

What type of moisturiser should I use with them?
Look for one with ceramides, peptides or hyaluronic acid to cushion the skin.

Looking for The Best Retinol Serums For A Revived Complexion? We dish out pro-tips and all the top Cosmetify offers, as well as a guide on How To Use Niacinamide Serum For Your Best Skin Yet.