How to Layer Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid: The Ultimate Guide

Learning how to layer niacinamide and hyaluronic acid in your skincare routine is essential for making sure you get the best possible results from these two popular active ingredients.

Because the truth is: Niacinamide and hyaluronic acid are two powerhouse skincare ingredients, each with its own set of benefits for all skin types.

So, have you ever wondered how to layer these two together for maximum results?

In this blog post, I’ll share the best practices for incorporating niacinamide and hyaluronic acid into your skincare routine to help you achieve healthy, glowing skin.

We’ll talk about the benefits of layering niacinamide and hyaluronic acid and look at common mistakes people make when incorporating these ingredients into their skincare routine. Of course, I’ll also give you a few product recommendations that our team of editors have tested and tried.

By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear overview of how to layer hyaluronic acid and niacinamide like a pro, and walk away with a handful of valuable tips on how to personalize your skincare routine for glowing skin.

Whether you’re new to skincare layering or just looking to optimize your current routine, I’ve got you covered.

Let’s glow!

Please note: Easy Skincare only recommends products we have tested and we think you’ll love, too. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Understanding Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid

Before we dive into learning how you should layer niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, let’s look at what these ingredients are and what benefits they can deliver.

What is Niacinamide?

I’ve been obsessed with skincare for almost 20 years now, and I’ve tested and tried every possible ingredient out there, going through hundreds and hundreds of skincare products throughout the years.

One ingredient that has really caught my attention in the past few years is niacinamide.

Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3. It’s a powerhouse ingredient that boasts a wide range of benefits for the skin – for all skin types.

Niacinamide Benefits in Skincare

Here are the main benefits of niacinamide in skincare:

• Calms redness and irritation thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. (Source)
• Works for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.
• Strengthens the skin barrier, keeping your skin healthy and resilient.
• Prevents excessive trans-epidermal water loss.
• Regulates oil and sebum production – great for combination skin. (Source)
• Reduces the appearance of enlarged pores.
• Improves skin tone and texture.
• Fights signs of ageing, fine lines and wrinkles. (Source)

Needless to say, the benefits of niacinamide in skincare are impressive. With its ability to address multiple skin concerns, it’s no wonder niacinamide has quickly become a favorite among skincare enthusiasts.

What is Hyaluronic Acid?

Hyaluronic acid is another one of our team’s go-to ingredients when it comes to achieving plump, hydrated skin.

Despite its name, hyaluronic acid is actually a sugar that naturally occurs in our skin and connective tissues.

It’s a humectant and it has the ability to hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it a must-have for keeping skin hydrated and youthful.

However, it’s important to remember that hyaluronic acid doesn’t hydrate the skin per se. It simply holds up to moisture and water that it comes in contact with, but doesn’t hydrate dry skin on its own.

Later in the guide, I’ll share a few easy tips on how to ge the most out of hyaluronic acid in your skincare regime.

Hyaluronic Acid Benefits in Skincare

Here are the main benefits of hyaluronic acid in skincare:

• Helps to replenish and retain moisture in the skin.
• Improves overall skin texture by plumping your skin from the inside out.
• Gives a dewy, glowy finish and appearance.
• Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, giving your skin a more youthful look and feel.

The best part about hyaluronic acid? It suits all skin types and is well tolerated. Whether you have dry, oily, or combination skin, hyaluronic acid can benefit everyone.

The Benefits of Combining Niacinamide with Hyaluronic Acid

Now that you’re familiar with how these two active ingredients work, let’s look at the benefits you can get from combining and layering niacinamide and hyaluronic acid.

When it comes to achieving a glowing and healthy complexion, combining niacinamide with hyaluronic acid can work wonders.

These two powerhouse ingredients complement each other to provide a range of benefits that cater to various skin concerns.

Let’s delve into how this dynamic duo can elevate your skincare routine.

1: Enhanced Hydration and Brightening Effects

By combining and layering niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, you can achieve enhanced hydration and brightening effects for your skin.

Hyaluronic acid is renowned for its ability to attract and retain moisture, leaving the skin plump and hydrated.

Niacinamide, on the other hand, works to improve the skin’s natural barrier, preventing moisture loss and boosting overall hydration.

Together, they create a synergy that delivers deep hydration and a radiant, glowing complexion.

2: Reducing Inflammation and Supporting Skin Barrier

Niacinamide possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm redness and irritation, making it an ideal companion for hyaluronic acid.

By reducing inflammation, niacinamide supports the skin’s barrier function, promoting a healthier and more resilient complexion.

Additionally, the combination of these two ingredients aids in soothing and calming sensitive skin, making it suitable for those with various skin concerns.

3: Improving Overall Skin Texture and Appearance

Both niacinamide and hyaluronic acid can improve your overall skin tone, texture, and appearance.

Niacinamide can reduce redness and irritation, decrease pore size, and even reduce breakouts and acne.

Hyaluronic acid evens out the texture of your complexion by plumping up the skin from the inside out.

Together, these two ingredients can therefore be a powerful combination for achieving healthy-looking, radiant skin with a more even skin tone and texture.

4: Reducing the Appearance of Fine Lines and Wrinkles

Last but certainly not least, there’s the anti-aging benefit.

Of course, no skincare ingredient can turn back time. But what makes all the difference is hydration. Dry skin tends to appear more dull and losing moisture from your skin increases the appearance of any fine lines and wrinkels on your complexion.

So when you give your skin moisture and keep it hydrated, you will almost instantly see an improvement in the appearance of signs of aging.

Since both niacinamide and hyaluronic acid help retain moisture and strengthen the skin barrier, layering these two ingredients can make your skin look and feel younger.

All in all, incorporating niacinamide and hyaluronic acid into your skincare routine can lead to a myriad of benefits, ranging from improved hydration to a more even skin tone.

Whether you’re looking to combat dryness, enhance radiance, or address inflammation, this potent combination offers a holistic approach to achieving healthy, glowing skin.

How to Layer Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid: Step-by-Step Guide

By now, you are familiar with both ingredients and you know what benefits you can achieve by incorporating them into your skincare routine.

Now let’s look at the most important part of this guide: how to layer niacinamide and hyaluronic acid the right way for your skin type and skincare concerns.

Since we’re big fans of keeping things easy and simple, this layering guide is as simple as possible. Hence, feel free to add further products, but make sure to follow our guide on how to layer skincare products the right way.

1: Cleanse Your Skin Gently

Before layering niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, it’s essential to start with a clean canvas. As with all skincare products, you want to apply them to clean skin.

Thus, begin by thoroughly cleansing your face to remove any dirt, oil, and makeup. This ensures that the subsequent skincare products can penetrate effectively and provide maximum benefits.

Use a cleanser suitable for your skin type. Avoid harsh cleansers that can damage the skin barrier and cause irritation, tightness, and dryness. Our team loves using a gentle cleanser that gets rid of all the gunk but leaves the skin feeling soft, fresh, and hydrated.

My personal favorite is the Squalane Cleanser by The Ordinary. It’s quite a thick cream, but once you rub it between your palms for 10 to 20 seconds, it warms up and turns into an oil-like consistency. It’s by far the most gentle cleansed I’ve ever used, and it leaves my skin feeling fresh, clean, and soft.

2: Apply a Niacinamide Serum

There are tons of different skincare product that contain niacinamide: serums, moisturizers, sunscreens, and more.

So remember: you don’t want to overdo it with this ingredient. Make sure your skincare routine has only one product that contains niacinamide. Overdoing it may cause irritation and redness, which is exactly what you’re trying to avoid.

I’m a big fan of niacinamide serums because I tend to use a plain pharmacy moisturizer with minimal active ingredients. That way, I can incorporate whatever ingredients I like into other steps of my routine, and I have more flexiblity to tailor it to what my skin needs on a particular day.

Hence, if you’d rather use a moisturizer with niacinamide, feel free to skip this step.

After cleansing you can apply a niacinamide serum to your skin. When applied directly to the skin as the first layer, it can penetrate deeper into your skin.

Editor’s tip: Apply the serum to the entire face, but also on your neck and even your ears for best results.

Most niacinamide serums are very watery and lightweight, so they absorb quickly into your skin.

3: Apply a Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Maximum Moisture

Next, you may want to apply a hyaluronic acid product to deliver an extra moisture and hydration boost to your skin.

Remember: Hyaluronic acid is a powerful humectant that attracts and retains moisture, leaving your skin hydrated and plump.

When your skin has absorbed the niacinamide serum, apply a few drops of hyaluronic acid serum to your face.

Gently pat the serum into your skin and allow it to fully absorb before moving on to the next step.

4: Apply a Moisturizer to Lock in the Goodness

To seal in the benefits of both hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, follow up with your favorite moisturizer.

Now, we all have different favorites when it comes to moisturizers. And depending on the season, you may even have a few different formulations: lighter moisturizers in the summer, heavier ones in the winter.

Your moisturizer helps lock in the hydration provided by the hyaluronic acid and ensures that the niacinamide serum remains effective.

So, choose a moisturizer that suits your skin type, and apply it evenly across your face, neck, and even your ears.

5: Protect Your Skin With a Broad Spectrum SPF

For your morning skincare routine, it’s crucial to finish with a broad-spectrum SPF to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.

Apply sunscreen as the final step in your routine, ensuring comprehensive protection for your skin throughout the day.

Of course, you can use a moisturizer with SPF for your morning routine. That way, you don’t necessarily need a separate SPF product at all.

By following this step-by-step guide to layering niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, you can optimize the benefits of these potent skincare ingredients for a healthy, radiant complexion.

Tips for Optimal Benefits from Layering Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid

Ok, so you are ready to start layering niacinamide and hyaluronic acid? Great!

To make sure you get the best results possible, let’s go through a few helpful tips for using these ingredients in your routine.

1: Understand Concentrations and Product Formulations

When layering niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, it’s crucial to consider the concentrations and formulations of the products you are using.

Niacinamide is generally most effective in concentrations up to 5%, while hyaluronic acid works well in various concentrations.

You will see niacinamide in higher concentrations, too. However, anything between 10-20% is more likely to cause irritation and redness, depending on how sensitive your skin is.

When it comes to product formulations, it’s essential to ensure that the products you choose complement each other and do not contain ingredients that could counteract their benefits.

Luckily, with niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, there’s no risk of one ingredient counteracting the other.

However, pay attention to other products in the same routine. For example, if you use an acidic product, don’t apply it simultaneously with niacinamide. Niacinamide is usually formulated around a neutral pH (6 to 7), while acidic product are – well – acidic, with a lower pH. If applied at the same time, they can interfere with one another.

2: Start Slowly to Avoid Irritation and Redness

When incorporating new skincare products into your routine, especially ones with active ingredients like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, it’s best to start slowly to allow your skin to adapt.

Begin by using the products on alternative days to gauge your skin’s reaction. This approach can help prevent potential irritation and redness, allowing your skin to gradually acclimate to the new additions.

If you can, always consult with a board-certified dermatologist when you’re setting up your skincare routine.

3: Be Mindful of Timing and Frequency for Optimal Results

Timing and frequency play a significant role in maximizing the benefits of layering niacinamide and hyaluronic acid.

Niacinamide can be used both morning and evening, while hyaluronic acid is best applied to damp skin as one of the first steps in your skincare routine.

It’s essential to wait for each product to be fully absorbed before applying the next one.

Incorporating this step-by-step approach ensures that each product can effectively penetrate the skin for optimal results.

If you want to delve deeper into establishing an effective skincare routine, explore this comprehensive guide to skincare layering.

4: Apply Products to Your Entire Face, Neck, and Ears

To reap the full benefits of niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, it’s crucial to apply the products correctly.

Gently pat or massage the products into your skin, ensuring full coverage and absorption.

Applying them in a specific order, such as a niacinamide serum followed by hyaluronic acid, can enhance their effectiveness.

5: Start With the Lightest Formulation

When it comes to layering skincare products, start with the lightest formulation. If you start with a face oil, it’s going to build a barrier on your skin, making it impossible for lighter, water-based products to get through to your skin.

Hence, you should apply any lightweight, water-based products first. Heavier, oil-based products will be the last steps in your routine.

Best Skincare Products to Layer Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid

When it comes to skincare products, finding the perfect combination of niacinamide and hyaluronic acid can bring a multitude of benefits.

Here are some top-notch recommendations from our team to consider for your skincare routine:

The Best Niacinamide Skincare Products (For All Skin Types)

1: Best Overall: The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

This serum is a great all-rounder that can be used by all skin types. It contains 10% niacinamide, which helps to reduce inflammation, brighten skin tone, and control oil production. It also contains 1% zinc, which helps to heal blemishes and reduce redness.

2: Best for Dry Skin: InstaNatural Niacinamide Serum

This serum is a great option for dry skin because it contains hyaluronic acid, which is a humectant that helps to draw moisture into the skin. It also contains niacinamide, which helps to reduce inflammation and boost hydration.

3: Best for Oily Skin: Glossier Super Pure Niacinamide + Zinc Serum

This serum is a great option for oily skin because it contains niacinamide and zinc, which both help to control oil production. It also contains witch hazel, which helps to soothe and tone the skin.

4: Best for Sensitive Skin: Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster

This booster is a great option for sensitive skin because it is fragrance-free and contains no alcohol or parabens. It contains 10% niacinamide, which helps to reduce inflammation and strengthen the skin barrier.

5: Best for Brightening: La Roche-Posay Pure Niacinamide 10% Serum

This serum is a great option for brightening skin because it contains 10% niacinamide, which helps to fade dark spots and even out skin tone. It also contains hyaluronic acid, which helps to hydrate the skin.

6: Best for Acne: Neutrogena Hydro Boost + 10% Niacinamide Serum

This serum is a great option for acne-prone skin because it contains niacinamide, which helps to reduce inflammation and control oil production. It also contains hyaluronic acid, which helps to hydrate the skin.

7: Best for Anti-Aging: Lancôme Clarifique Pro-Solution Brightening Serum

I’m a big fan of this delightfully scented serum, and it’s perfect for anti-aging because it contains 10% PHA and niacinamide, which together help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Lightweight, absorbs quickly, leaves the skin feeling hydrated and soft.

8: Best for Hyperpigmentation: Paula’s Choice CLINICAL 20% Niacinamide Treatment

This treatment is a great option for hyperpigmentation because it contains a higher concentration of niacinamide (20%) than most other products on the market. This helps to fade dark spots and even out skin tone more effectively.

9: Best for All Skin Types: The Inkey List Niacinamide Serum

This serum is a great option for all skin types because it contains 10% niacinamide, which is a well-rounded ingredient that can help to improve a variety of skin concerns. It is also very affordable, making it a great option for those on a budget.

The Best Hyaluronic Acid Skincare Products (For All Skin Types)

1: Best Overall: The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydrating Serum

I absolutely adore the dewy, glowy finish from using this serum. It is a great all-rounder for all skin types. It contains 2% hyaluronic acid, which is a good concentration for most people. It also contains vitamin B5, which soothes and hydrates your skin.

2: Best for Dry Skin: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Cream

During winter months, my skin tends to feel dry and tight, and this gel cream is my go-to product for that extra hydration boost. Even though it’s so hydrating, it’s still lightweight and non-greasy.

3: Best for Oily Skin: Paula’s Choice CLEAR Oil-Free Hydrating Gel

This gel is a great option for oily skin because it is oil-free and non-comedogenic. It contains hyaluronic acid and other hydrating ingredients that help to keep the skin hydrated without clogging pores.

4: Best for Sensitive Skin: La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum

This serum is a great option for sensitive skin because it is fragrance-free and contains no alcohol or parabens. It contains two forms of hyaluronic acid, which help to hydrate your skin at different depths. It also contains vitamin B5, which is a soothing and hydrating ingredient.

5: Best for Brightening: Innisfree Green Tea Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Serum

This lovely, lightly fragrant brightening serum provides intensive hydration, leaving your skin feeling smooth, plump, and glowing. Innisfree uses their signature green tea complex in the formulation to help hydrate and improve your skin’s moisture barrier.

6: Best for Acne: The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid Serum

This serum is perfect for acne-prone skin with its lightweight and non-greasy formulation. It helps keep your skin hydrated without clogging pores or causing breakouts. What makes is special is that it also contains the Matrixyl 3000 peptide that can smooth the appearance of fine lines.

7: Best for Anti-Aging: Cerave Hyaluronic Acid Serum With Vitamin B5 and Ceramides

If your skincare routine is focussed on anti-aging, this lightweight serum is a great product to include in your regime. It delivers instantly smoother and softer skin thanks to the highest concentration of hyaluronic acid in any Cerave product. Moreover, it strengthens the skin barrier, preventing any excess water loss and helping to keep your skin looking hydrated, smooth, and more youthful.

8: Best for All Skin Types: Hada Labo Rohto Gokujyun Hyaluronic Acid Lotion

This non-greasy lotion is a great option for all skin types. It’s lightweight and it contains five forms of hyaluronic acid, which help to hydrate the skin at different depths. It is also very affordable, making it a great option for those on a budget.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Layering Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid

When it comes to layering niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, it’s important to be mindful of certain mistakes that can compromise the effectiveness of these potent skincare ingredients.

As with any active ingredients, overdoing it, mixing incompatible ingredients, ignoring signs of irritation, and neglecting sunscreen protection are common pitfalls to steer clear of for a successful skincare routine.

Let’s take a look:

1: Overdoing It

It can be tempting to use a high concentration of both niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, thinking that more is better.

However, overloading your skin with these potent ingredients can lead to irritation and sensitivity.

It’s essential that you follow recommended usage guidelines and start with lower concentrations to allow your skin to acclimate.

2: Mixing Incompatible Ingredients

Combining niacinamide with certain acidic ingredients like vitamin C or alpha hydroxy acids can lead to a pH clash, reducing the efficacy of both ingredients.

Hence, you want to do your research and understand which ingredients complement each other and which ones may be incompatible when layering skincare products.

3: Recognizing and Addressing Signs of Irritation

Signs of irritation such as redness, itching, or a stinging sensation should not be ignored when using niacinamide and hyaluronic acid.

If you experience any discomfort, it’s essential to scale back or temporarily discontinue use to allow your skin to recover.

4: Neglecting Your SPF

Regardless of whther you decide to layer niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, you want to apply a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 daily to shield your skin from harmful UV rays and maintain the benefits of your skincare routine.

After all, I know you’re interested in maintaining a healthy-looking complexion. If you’re already going through the trouble of perfecting your skincare routine and fighting signs of aging by using niacinamide, you don’t want to revert all the great effects by grilling your skin in the sun.

Summing it up: improperly layering niacinamide and hyaluronic acid can impact your skin’s health and appearance. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can harness the full potential of these skincare powerhouses for a radiant and healthy complexion.

Personalizing Your Skincare Routine: 3 Quick Tips

When you’re putting together your skincare routine, it’s one thing to learn how to layer niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, but a whole different thing to tailor the routine to thoroughly address any skincare concerns you’re having.

To help you perfect your routine for best results, here are my three top tips for making sure you’re taking optimal care of your skin:

1: Tailor the Layering Technique to Your Skin Type

When it comes to personalizing your skincare routine, tailoring the layering technique to your specific skin type is crucial in achieving the best results.

Whether you have oily, dry, combination, or sensitive skin, understanding how to layer niacinamide and hyaluronic acid according to your skin’s needs is essential.

For example, if you have dry skin, you may benefit from layering hyaluronic acid first to lock in moisture, followed by niacinamide to target any uneven skin tone.

On the other hand, those with oily skin might find it more effective to reverse the order to prevent potential pilling and ensure optimal absorption.

2: Incorporate Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid into Your Existing Regimen

Incorporating niacinamide and hyaluronic acid into your existing skincare regimen can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be.

By understanding the benefits of each ingredient and how they complement your current products, you can seamlessly integrate them into your routine.

Niacinamide, known for its versatility in addressing various skin concerns such as enlarged pores and fine lines, can be introduced as a serum or cream after cleansing and toning.

Similarly, hyaluronic acid, prized for its hydrating properties, can be applied before moisturizer to enhance its absorption and boost skin hydration.

3: Consult a Certified Skincare Professional

While personalizing your skincare routine can be empowering, knowing when to consult a skincare professional is equally important.

If you’re unsure about how to incorporate niacinamide and hyaluronic acid into your regimen, or if you have specific skin conditions such as eczema or rosacea, seeking guidance from a dermatologist or skincare expert is advisable. They can provide tailored advice based on your individual skin concerns and recommend the most effective ways to layer these ingredients for optimal results.

Remember, personalizing your skincare routine is about understanding your unique skin needs and making informed choices to achieve healthy, radiant skin.

By tailoring the layering technique to your skin type, incorporating niacinamide and hyaluronic acid thoughtfully, and knowing when to seek professional advice, you can navigate the world of skincare with confidence and achieve the best possible results.

FAQ: How to Layer Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid for Glowing Skin

Final thoughts: How to Layer Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid in Skincare

In conclusion, learning how to layer niacinamide and hyaluronic acid can be a beneficial addition to your skincare routine.

Incorporating these two powerhouse ingredients can help you achieve a more balanced and radiant complexion.

Remember that your skin is unique, and it may react to these ingredients in a different way than what we’ve shared in this guide. Therefore, it’s important that you tailor your skincare routine to suit the specific skincare concerns you want to address with these ingredients.

For example, if you have dry skin, you may want to apply hyaluronic acid first to lock in moisture. If your skin is oily, applying niacinamide first may be a good idea.

When introducing niacinamide and hyaluronic acid into your skincare routine, start slowly and see how your skin responds. Always remember to patch test any new products and consult with a dermatologist if you have any concerns about potential interactions.

Keep reading:

• 35 Best Face Serums for Glowing Skin (Full Guide)
• 10 Common Skincare Mistakes to Avoid
• How to Layer Salicylic Acid and Niacinamide (For Glowing Skin)