COSRX The Niacinamide 15 Serum 20ml is a high-strength Korean face serum powered by 15% niacinamide to refine enlarged pores, control excess oil and fade dark spots and post-acne marks. This lightweight niacinamide serum pairs a clinical-level concentration of vitamin B3 with zinc PCA and acetyl glucosamine to even tone and smooth texture, giving oily and blemish-prone skin a clearer, more balanced finish.

Why This Serum Works

Most niacinamide serums sit around 5 to 10 percent, so this 15 percent concentration delivers more pronounced pore-refining and sebum-balancing results while staying lightweight and non-sticky. Niacinamide regulates oil and strengthens the skin barrier, zinc PCA helps calm inflammation and curb the bacteria behind breakouts, and acetyl glucosamine works alongside niacinamide to fade pigmentation. In a COSRX clinical trial the formula was shown to reduce sebum by up to 50 percent, decrease pore size by 45 percent and improve pigmentation by 19 percent over four weeks of daily use.

Ideal For

Best suited to oily, combination and blemish-prone skin dealing with enlarged pores, excess shine, post-acne marks or uneven tone. In the UAE's heat and humidity, where excess sebum and pore congestion are common concerns, a high-strength niacinamide serum can be a practical daily addition. Because 15 percent is a potent concentration, those with sensitive or reactive skin should patch test first and start every other day, building up frequency as tolerance allows. Very dry skin may want to layer a hydrating toner or serum underneath.

• 15% Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): a clinical-strength concentration that minimises the look of pores, regulates sebum, brightens and helps even out skin tone.

• Zinc PCA: helps control excess oil, soothe inflammation and support recovery in blemish-prone skin.

• Acetyl Glucosamine (NAG): works in synergy with niacinamide to gently refine texture and fade hyperpigmentation.

• Allantoin and Trehalose: calm sensitivity and keep the skin comfortable and hydrated, so the high-strength actives feel balanced rather than harsh.

1. After cleansing and toning, apply 2 to 3 drops to the face or directly to problem areas.

2. Gently pat or massage with fingertips, working from the centre of the face outward, and allow it to absorb.

3. Follow with moisturiser. Can be used once or twice daily, morning or night.

4. During the day, always finish with a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. Avoid layering with AHA, BHA, vitamin C or retinol at the same time; use those at separate times instead.