Sometimes you’ll hear people ask, “Niacinamide vs retinol—if I have to pick, which is better?” The truth is they serve different purposes and complement each other rather than compete. Think of them like peanut butter and jelly - both are unique but they fit together wonderfully and when combined make magic.
In this article, we’ll take a look at niacinamide vs. retinol so you can decide which one is better than the other or if you want to use both.
Comparing Niacinamide vs. Retinol
Niacinamide focuses on barrier support, hydration, and calming, while retinol works at a deeper, more cellular level to promote collagen and expedite cell turnover.
- If you’re struggling with breakouts, large pores, or surface-level issues like redness, niacinamide might show you quicker, gentler improvements.
- If you’re battling stubborn texture, fine lines, or pigmentation, retinol is often the more transformative ingredient.
Ultimately, it’s not a matter of niacinamide vs. retinol but niacinamide plus retinol for the best long-term results. Yes, we think the combo of niacinamide and retinal is truly a miracle to help improve your skin’s appearance.
Highlighting Our Favorite Retinol and Niacinamide Products
Below we will highlight our favorite must-have retinal and niacinamide products to add to your skincare arsenal.
1. Original Cin Niacinamide Serum
When you’re looking for the best niacinamide serum, Original Cin Niacinamide Serum is your go-to. Formulated with potent levels of niacinamide and other skin-loving ingredients, it targets visible pores, uneven skin tone, and dullness in one step.
The texture of Original Cin Niacinamide Serum is lightweight and easily absorbed, perfect for layering with other actives.
Apply it after cleansing and before your retinol product. This helps create that barrier of calm that will support your skin in tolerating retinol more comfortably.
2. Smooth Sailing Retinol Serum
If you’re seeking a gentle, yet effective way to introduce retinol into your routine, the Smooth Sailing Retinol Serum is a top contender for the best retinol serum out there. It’s designed with encapsulated retinol (in many modern formulations) that slowly releases into the skin, reducing the risk of irritation.
The silky, lightweight formula of the serum delivers the smoothing, firming, and brightening benefits you crave from retinol without overwhelming your complexion.
3. Smooth Sailing Retinol Cream
Those with drier skin—or who want to layer multiple retinol products—can appreciate the Smooth Sailing Retinol Cream. It’s a luxurious, nourishing cream that locks in moisture while delivering a steady dose of vitamin A. For some, using a serum and cream that both contain retinol can be a bit much initially, so it’s crucial to build up retinol tolerance.
Once you’ve used the Smooth Sailing Retinol Serum for several months, you can consider adding the cream on top for an extra boost of smoothing and firming benefits.
How to Incorporate Retinol and Niacinamide into Your Routine
Putting it all together, here’s a step-by-step guide to safely and effectively use niacinamide with retinol in your skincare regimen:
Cleanse Your Skin
Use a gentle cleanser to remove any makeup or impurities. Pat your skin dry, leaving it slightly damp if your niacinamide product absorbs best on damp skin.
Niacinamide Serum
Gently massage the Original Cin Niacinamide Serum onto your skin, focusing on areas with concerns like visible pores, excess oil, or uneven tone. Wait about 1 minute to let the serum fully absorb.
Retinol Serum
If you’re using the Smooth Sailing Retinol Serum, dispense a small amount and apply it to your entire face (avoiding the immediate eye area unless the product specifically says it’s safe). If you’re new to retinol, start with one to two nights a week and gradually increase the frequency. Watch for dryness or irritation.
Retinol Cream (Optional Step—For Advanced Tolerance)
Once you’ve used retinol for a few months and your skin has adapted, you can experiment with applying the Smooth Sailing Retinol Cream on top of the serum. This one-two punch can really elevate your anti-aging and resurfacing routine—but only if your skin is ready.
Moisturize (If Needed)
Depending on your skin type, you may or may not need an additional moisturizer. If your skin feels tight, reach for a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturizer to seal everything in.
Sunscreen
If you’re using retinol at night, don’t forget to use broad-spectrum sunscreen in the daytime to protect your newly resurfaced skin from UV damage.
Tips for Avoiding Irritation
If you’re worried about using retinal and/or niacinamide and whether or not it can irritate your skin, then you’ll want to consider following the tips below.
Start Low and Slow
If you’re new to retinol, choose a lower concentration and use it sparingly at first. Don’t jump into nightly applications right away.
Combine with Gentle Products
Keep the rest of your skincare routine mild while your skin adjusts to retinol. Avoid harsh scrubs, strong chemical peels, or anything else that could compromise your skin barrier.
Use Niacinamide Consistently
Niacinamide is your ally during the adjustment phase. Applying niacinamide regularly can mitigate dryness and help your skin stay balanced.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Drinking plenty of water and using hydrating serums, creams, or masks is vital. Hydration is key to reducing flaking and redness.
Listen to Your Skin
Not everyone’s skin tolerates new products at the same pace. If you notice persistent irritation, scale back or temporarily discontinue retinol use until your skin stabilizes.
Realistic Expectations: When Will I See Results?
- Niacinamide: You might notice improvements in oil control and mild brightening within just a few weeks of consistent use. More significant changes in skin clarity and overall tone usually appear around 8-12 weeks.
- Retinol: Retinol is a long game. Minor flaking or dryness in the first few weeks is normal, and it can take 3-6 months of consistent use to see a major transformation in wrinkles, texture, and pigmentation.
When you combine niacinamide and retinol together, you can help your skin adapt more comfortably, potentially see reduced redness, and maintain a brighter, healthier glow over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use retinol with niacinamide if you have sensitive skin?
Yes! In fact, using niacinamide can help buffer against the irritating effects of retinol. Just be sure to start slowly, patch test, and possibly consider a gentler retinol formula (like the Smooth Sailing Retinol Serum) until your skin adjusts.
Can I use niacinamide and retinol both in the morning?
Typically, retinol is recommended for evening use because it can increase photosensitivity. Niacinamide can be used in both your AM and PM routines, so it’s a flexible ingredient. If you do apply retinol in the morning, always follow with a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30.
What’s the best retinol cream for dry skin?
The Smooth Sailing Retinol Cream is a standout choice because it nourishes while providing active retinol benefits. However, always ensure you introduce any retinol product slowly and supplement with a hydrating moisturizer if needed.
Niacinamide or retinol for acne?
Both can be helpful for acne-prone skin. Retinol helps speed up cell turnover and keep pores clear, while niacinamide regulates oil and reduces inflammation. Used together, they can be an excellent tag team for clearer skin.
The Bottom Line
Combining niacinamide and retinol is one of the best ways to get a comprehensive set of benefits—smoother skin, a stronger barrier, fewer blemishes, and a brighter glow—all rolled into one dynamic routine. By properly layering and pacing yourself, you can maximize the effects of each ingredient while minimizing the risk of irritation.
Things to remember about niacinamide vs. retinol.
- Yes, you can mix niacinamide and retinol—and you probably should.
- The answer to “can you use niacinamide with retinol?” is a resounding yes, especially if you’re looking to calm and hydrate your complexion while reaping the anti-aging benefits of vitamin A.
- Develop retinol tolerance first by using just one retinol product for a few months before adding another (such as layering a retinol serum and a retinol cream).
- Use the best niacinamide serum and best retinol serum/cream you can find to ensure quality formulations that deliver real results—like the Original Cin Niacinamide Serum, Smooth Sailing Retinol Serum, and Smooth Sailing Retinol Cream from Eight Saints.
- Always patch test, start slow, and listen to your skin if you see signs of sensitivity.
- Sunscreen is a non-negotiable must if you’re using retinol in your routine - so slather it on and protect your skin!
The synergy between niacinamide and retinol brings out the best in both ingredients -- they are yin and yang. Think of it as transforming the surface of your skin while nurturing and protecting it from within. Whether you’re striving to minimize fine lines, even out tone, or simply maintain that healthy glow, this is one power duo that deserves a permanent place in your skincare arsenal.
Ready to Start Your Skincare Journey?
If you’ve decided to dip your toes into the world of niacinamide and retinol, check out our carefully curated selection of products that embody Eight Saints’ commitment to clean, cruelty-free formulations:
- Original Cin Niacinamide Serum: The best niacinamide serum to refine pores, soothe redness, and build a robust skin barrier.
- Smooth Sailing Retinol Serum: Often touted as the best retinol serum for beginners and experienced users alike.
- Smooth Sailing Retinol Cream: The best retinol cream if you’re looking for an ultra-nourishing approach to anti-aging.
If you’re looking to incorporate both the Smooth Sailing Retinol Serum and the Smooth Sailing Retinol Cream into your regimen, be sure to use one product first for several weeks or months until your skin acclimates.
Once you’ve built that tolerance, you can layer both for a more potent approach—just don’t forget to cushion your routine with plenty of niacinamide and hydration!
Remember It’s Your Skin, Your Journey
Remember, skincare is an ongoing journey of learning and adaptation. We are all individuals. Everyone’s skin is unique, and what works perfectly for someone else might require a bit of tweaking for you.
Start slowly, monitor how your skin responds, and adjust as needed. With the right approach, niacinamide and retinol can be the ultimate skincare power duo you’ve been waiting for—revealing a more confident, radiant, and youthful-looking you.
Ready to transform your skin? Head over to Eight Saints and explore our niacinamide and retinol must-haves to craft your perfect regimen. Your complexion (future you) will thank you!