Paula's Choice 10% Niacinamide Serum for Sensitive and Reactive Skin, Fragrance-Free Dermatologist-Tested Formula
Paula's Choice 10% Niacinamide Serum for Sensitive and Reactive Skin, Fragrance-Free Dermatologist-Tested Formula
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Why you'll love it
- High-strength 10% niacinamide delivers visible multi-concern results in one bottle
- Fragrance-free, clinically developed formula is safe for sensitive, acne-prone, and reactive skin
- Versatile 2-in-1 use—standalone serum or booster mixed into moisturizer—reduces routine complexity
- Science-backed Paula's Choice reputation appeals to ingredient-literate shoppers tired of marketing fluff
- Cruelty-free and unscented formulation aligns with conscious, clean-leaning beauty buyers
Perfect for
- Apply alone as a daily morning or evening face serum to target enlarged pores
- Mix 2-3 drops into a favorite moisturizer for a customized, boosted treatment
- Layer under moisturizer to address uneven skin tone, fine lines, and redness
- Use as a hydrating, antioxidant-rich step in a sensitive-skin routine
- Target dullness and dryness in acne-prone or oily skin without clogging pores
Product Information
10% NIACINAMIDE FOR MULTI-TARGETED IMPROVEMENT: This high-strength booster visibly reduces enlarged pores, uneven skin tone, fine lines, redness, dryness, and other signs of aging. Niacinamide (vitamin B3) works alongside vitamin C and licorice extract to naturally calm, hydrate, and restore youthful radiance and glow.
MULTI-PURPOSE, CUSTOMIZABLE FORMULA: Designed to be used alone as a potent face serum or mixed into your favorite moisturizer, this serum. for face easily integrates into any morning or evening routine for a personalized, targeted treatment that addresses multiple concerns at once.
ANTIOXIDANT-RICH, SKIN-REPLENISHING COMPLEX: The formula blends antioxidants and skin-replenishing plant extracts to rejuvenate, protect, and strengthen the skin barrier, supporting lasting improvements in clarity, texture, and tone.
CLINICALLY DEVELOPED FOR ALL SKIN TYPES: Ideal for dryness, sensitivity, acne, fine lines, or dullness, this booster is fragrance-free, cruelty-free, and proven effective for a wide range of skin concerns and types.
Paula's Choice Skincare makes products that work. No fragrance, no fluff. Just effective, science-backed formulas that target any concern from wrinkles to breakouts.
Items Details
Features & Specs
Skin Type: Acne Prone, Dry, Normal, Oily
Product Benefits: Visibly minimizes pore size, corrects uneven skin tone, and softens fine lines with this multi-use targeted serum.
Target Use Body Part: Face
Scent Name: Unscented
Special Ingredients: Antioxidants, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin B5, Vitamin C
Item Form: Drop
Skin Tone: All
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this niacinamide serum safe for sensitive, reactive skin?
Yes. The formula is fragrance-free, clinically developed, and balanced with soothing hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5, making it well-tolerated by sensitive and reactive skin types when used as directed.
Will the 10% niacinamide concentration cause irritation or redness?
10% niacinamide is a well-studied concentration that is generally well-tolerated. The formula pairs it with hydrating and calming ingredients, and most users experience no irritation. If you are new to actives, start every other night to build tolerance.
Is this serum non-comedogenic and safe for acne-prone skin?
Yes. The lightweight, fast-absorbing formula is non-comedogenic and oil-free, so it is designed not to clog pores and is suitable for acne-prone, oily, and combination skin.
Can I use this serum if I have rosacea or eczema?
Many people with rosacea or eczema tolerate niacinamide well because it supports the skin barrier. However, if you have a diagnosed condition, consult your dermatologist before adding any new active to your routine.
Is the formula free of fragrance, essential oils, and dyes?
Yes. The serum is fragrance-free, does not contain added essential oils for scent, and is formulated without artificial dyes, which is ideal for sensitive-skin consumers and allergy-prone users.
Is this serum safe to use during pregnancy or while nursing?
Niacinamide is generally considered safe during pregnancy and nursing. As with any skincare change during this time, confirm with your healthcare provider before use.
Has this formula been dermatologist tested?
Paula's Choice develops its formulas with dermatological guidance and clinical testing. The brand is known for fragrance-free, irritant-conscious formulations that are commonly recommended by dermatologists.
Will this serum sting if my skin barrier is currently compromised?
On a compromised barrier, any active can cause a mild tingle. Pause use, focus on a gentle cleanser and barrier cream until skin calms, then reintroduce the serum every other night.
Is the dropper applicator hygienic for daily use?
Yes. The dropper keeps fingers away from the formula, and the serum's ingredients and packaging are designed to maintain stability and cleanliness with normal use.
Is this product cruelty-free and safe for conscious beauty buyers?
Yes. Paula's Choice is cruelty-free and the formula is fragrance-free, aligning with clean-leaning, conscious beauty standards.
How does this compare to a natural or essential-oil based pore serum?
Natural and essential-oil based serums often rely on fragrance compounds that can sensitize skin. Paula's Choice uses a clinically supported 10% niacinamide concentration with proven results and no fragrance, offering a safer choice for reactive skin.
Is this safer for sensitive skin than a retinol product?
Niacinamide is generally much gentler than retinol, which can cause peeling, sun sensitivity, and irritation. This serum delivers visible pore and tone benefits without the same side-effect profile, making it a safer daily option for many.
How does Paula's Choice niacinamide compare to pharmacy or generic-brand options?
Generic niacinamide serums often use lower concentrations, less stable formulations, or added fragrance. Paula's Choice offers a 10% concentration in a fragrance-free, antioxidant-rich base, with a reputation for ingredient transparency.
I am worried about long-term safety. Is daily use okay for years?
Yes. Niacinamide has a long safety record in skincare. Daily, long-term use is well-tolerated by most skin types when paired with daily SPF in the morning.
Will this serum interact with my prescription acne medication?
Niacinamide is commonly used alongside prescriptions like benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin, though layering strong actives can occasionally cause dryness. Apply the serum at a separate time of day and check with your prescribing provider if unsure.
Is there any risk of an allergic reaction to the formula?
Allergic reactions are rare but possible with any skincare product. The fragrance-free, dye-free formula reduces common triggers. If you have a known allergy, review the full ingredient list on the product page before use.
How do I use Paula's Choice 10% Niacinamide Serum in my routine?
Apply 2-3 drops to clean, dry skin morning and/or night after cleansing and before moisturizing. You can also mix the drops into your favorite moisturizer for a customized boost.
Can I layer this serum with retinol, vitamin C, or exfoliating acids?
Yes. Niacinamide pairs well with most actives. If you use strong exfoliants or prescription retinol, apply this serum at a different time of day or alternate nights to reduce the chance of dryness or irritation.
How long does one 0.67 oz bottle last with daily use?
With 2-3 drops applied twice daily, the 0.67 oz bottle typically lasts 6-8 weeks. Using it once daily or mixing it into moisturizer can extend the bottle to around 3-4 months.
Is this serum compatible with my current moisturizer and sunscreen?
Yes. The lightweight, water-based formula layers cleanly under most moisturizers, oils, and broad-spectrum sunscreens without pilling, and it can be mixed directly into your moisturizer as a booster.
Does this serum work with silicone-based primers or makeup?
Yes. Because the serum absorbs quickly and leaves a smooth finish, it works well as a prep step under silicone-based primers, foundations, and complexion products.
What is included in the box when I order the serum?
The package contains one 0.67 oz (20 ml) glass-style dropper bottle of Paula's Choice BOOST 10% Niacinamide Serum. You will need to supply your own cleanser, moisturizer, and SPF separately.
Is niacinamide safe for daily long-term use?
Yes. Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is well-studied and well-tolerated for daily, long-term use on all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. Pair daily morning use with broad-spectrum SPF.
Can niacinamide cause purging or breakouts when I first start using it?
Niacinamide is not an exfoliant and does not cause true purging. If you notice new breakouts, reduce use to every other night and ensure the rest of your routine is non-comedogenic, or consult a dermatologist.
What is the difference between a niacinamide serum and a hyaluronic acid serum?
Hyaluronic acid focuses primarily on hydration by attracting water to the skin. Niacinamide is a multi-tasking active that addresses enlarged pores, uneven tone, redness, oil balance, and barrier function. This serum contains both, so you get hydration plus treatment benefits in one step.
