Cica + 10% Niacinamide Face Serum for Oily Skin

Niacinamide — Vitamin B3 — a broadly-tolerated all-rounder that strengthens the skin barrier, evens tone and helps regulate oil. The label states 10%. Works from ~5%. OTC cap 10%. Give it 8–12 weeks for tone. Suits all skin types. One of the best-tolerated actives there is — fine for every skin type, and especially handy for oil and uneven tone. Good value: beats 79% of the 15 Niacinamide serums that state their strength.

Sodium Hyaluronate — A humectant that holds water in the upper skin — pure hydration, tolerated by essentially everyone, at any concentration. The strength is not printed, so we cannot judge the dose; that counts against the brand. Works from ~1%. Works Ongoing while you use it; no weeks-long build-up to wait for. Suits all skin types. Pure hydration — suits everyone, and dry or dehydrated skin most of all. Apply on damp skin and seal it in.

Alpha-Arbutin — A gentle, stable brightener that fades dark spots by slowing melanin production — a milder route to even tone than acids. The strength is not printed, so we cannot judge the dose; that counts against the brand. Works from ~1%. OTC cap 2%. Give it 8–12 weeks for dark spots. Suits all skin types. A gentle, stable brightener that fades dark spots without the sting of acids — fine for every skin type.

Cholesterol — The barrier's own lipid — repairs with ceramides and fatty acids. The strength is not printed, so we cannot judge the dose; that counts against the brand. Best for .

Niacinamide: a review on dermal delivery strategies and clinical evidence ›

Niacinamide - mechanisms of action and its topical use in dermatology ›

Mechanistic Basis and Clinical Evidence for the Applications of Nicotinamide (Niacinamide) to Control Skin Aging and Pigmentation ›