Pores and oily skin: what niacinamide can and can't do

Does niacinamide shrink pores?

Niacinamide does not physically shrink pores—pore size is largely determined by genetics and oil production. What it can do is improve the look of enlarged pores. The Good Molecules Niacinamide Serum is formulated with 10% niacinamide (vitamin B3) and is described as helping to improve the look of enlarged pores, uneven skin tone and texture, and dullness. Think of it as refining the appearance of pores, not changing their actual size.

Is niacinamide good for oily skin?

Niacinamide is often used in routines for oily skin because it supports the look of smoother, more even texture and helps maintain a healthy, hydrated-looking complexion. The Good Molecules serum is a lightweight, water-based formula that layers seamlessly under skincare and makeup, making it suitable for daily use. It is fragrance-free, which can be helpful if you prefer to avoid added fragrance in your skincare.

Will niacinamide make my skin oily or dry it out?

The supplied product information does not describe the serum as oil-controlling or drying. It is described as helping to maintain a healthy, hydrated-looking complexion. If you have oily skin, you can still use a moisturizer as needed; the serum is designed to be applied before oils, moisturizers, and creams.

How much to use, and when

How much niacinamide serum should I use?

The brand instructs applying a few drops to your skin. You do not need a full dropper—start with a few drops and adjust if your skin feels like it needs more coverage. The serum comes in 30 ml / 1 oz and 75 ml sizes, as well as 2-packs and 3-packs of each, so you can choose the size that fits your routine.

Should I use niacinamide serum in the morning or at night?

The product directions say to apply a few drops in the morning and at night before oils, moisturizers, and creams. It is suitable for daily use, so you can use it twice daily if that fits your routine. If you are new to niacinamide, you might start with once daily and see how your skin responds, but the brand does not specify a frequency beyond morning and night use.

What is the layering order for niacinamide serum?

Apply the serum after cleansing and before oils, moisturizers, and creams. Because it is a lightweight, water-based formula, it layers seamlessly under the rest of your skincare and makeup. A simple order is: cleanser, niacinamide serum, then moisturizer or oil, then sunscreen in the morning.

Purging, breakouts, and skin reactions

Can niacinamide cause purging or breakouts?

The supplied product information does not mention purging or breakouts as expected effects. Purging is typically associated with exfoliating acids or retinoids, not niacinamide. If you experience irritation or breakouts after starting a new product, stop using it and consult a skincare professional. The serum is fragrance-free and never tested on animals, but individual reactions can vary.

Is this serum suitable for sensitive skin?

The product information does not make a specific sensitive-skin claim. It is fragrance-free and has a pH of 7.1. If you have sensitive skin, you may want to patch test a small area first, as with any new skincare product. The brand does not provide patch-test instructions in the supplied information.

Good Molecules Niacinamide Serum at a glance