# Paula's Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster for combination skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for combination skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/10-niacinamide-booster/for/combination-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Germany.

Brand: [Paula's Choice](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/brands/paula-s-choice)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with combination skin: an oily T-zone, enlarged pores, and dry cheeks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A great choice for combination skin; a few serums fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Highly suitable for your combination skin and oily shine concerns, as niacinamide and acetyl glucosamine work effectively to regulate sebum production and improve skin texture. Glycerin and panthenol further support hydration and skin barrier function, enhancing overall skin health.
- The formulation includes beneficial antioxidants like epigallocatechin gallate and ubiquinone, which offer protection against environmental stressors, complementing the primary benefits for your skin.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no harsh or prohibited ingredients, ensuring a low risk of irritation for your combination skin.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/10-niacinamide-booster/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/10-niacinamide-booster/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/10-niacinamide-booster/for/combination-skin): High (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/10-niacinamide-booster/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/10-niacinamide-booster/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/10-niacinamide-booster/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/10-niacinamide-booster/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/10-niacinamide-booster/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Superior
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/10-niacinamide-booster/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Niacinamide, Acetyl Glucosamine, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract Licorice Root Extract, Panthenol Vitamin B5

## What the research says

- A new topical panthenol-containing emollient significantly improved transepidermal water loss reduction, stratum corneum hydration, and intercellular lipid lamellae length compared with control in healthy subjects without negatively impacting bacterial viability. ([The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/))
- Topical dexpanthenol acts as a moisturizer, improves stratum corneum hydration, accelerates wound healing and epidermal regeneration, reduces erythema, and improves symptoms of skin irritation compared to vehicle or no pretreatment. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/))
- Topical application of (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) to human skin before UV irradiation decreases UV-induced production of hydrogen peroxide by 68-90% and nitric oxide by 30-100%, inhibits leukocyte infiltration and lipid peroxidation by 41-84%, and restores glutathione levels and glutathione peroxidase activity compared to UV exposure alone. ([Carcinogenesis, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11181450/))
- Topical treatment with coenzyme Q10 formulas replenishes Q10 levels in the skin surface and deeper epidermis, augments cellular energy metabolism, and reduces free radicals while increasing antioxidant capacity in stressed skin. ([BioFactors, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26648450/))
- A panthenol-enriched mask significantly decreased erythema and hyperpigmentation, increased sebum and stratum corneum moisture, and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to a saline dressing in 60 subjects undergoing facial laser treatment. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40613435/))
- Topical post-laser application of human adipocyte-derived mesenchymal stem cell media combined with niacinamide significantly improved wrinkle index, melanin index, patient satisfaction, and investigator esthetic improvement scores compared to vehicle cream in patients with aging skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33103316/))
- Topical nicotinamide prevented solar-simulated UV-induced immunosuppression in healthy volunteers, and men experienced immunosuppression at solar-simulated UV doses three times lower than those required for women. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17882270/))
- Topical 5% niacinamide applied twice daily for 12 weeks reduced fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmented spots, red blotchiness, and skin sallowness, and improved skin elasticity compared to vehicle control in 50 female white subjects with facial photoaging. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16029679/))
- Topical 2% N-acetyl glucosamine reduced facial hyperpigmentation in an 8-week split-face clinical test, with an even greater effect observed when combined with 4% niacinamide. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17348991/))
- N-acetyl-glucosamine-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers successfully delivered the hydrophilic agent through the skin and reduced melanin distribution in healthy volunteers. ([Advanced Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28101465/))
- Topical cosmetic products containing hyaluronic acid, N-acetyl glucosamine, and gamma-amino butyric acid improved skin hydration by 24.28% to 33.60%, elasticity by 11.98%, and skin lightening by 5.26% over 2 months in 20 female participants. ([Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30040516/))
- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))
- Combining 755 nm alexandrite laser with topical licorice gel significantly reduces terminal hair counts compared to alexandrite laser with placebo in women with idiopathic hirsutism. ([Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26273313/))
- Licochalcone A activated Nrf2 signaling, elevated cytoprotective enzymes, increased the reduced-to-oxidized glutathione ratio, and decreased reactive oxygen species in human fibroblasts and neutrophils, while a LicA-rich licorice extract lowered UVA-induced oxidative processes in vivo. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25381913/))
- Bioactive glycyrrhizic acid and oxymatrine ionic liquid self-assembled nanomicelles significantly promoted the transdermal permeation, subcutaneous retention, and anti-photoaging efficacy of palmitoyl pentapeptide-4 in cellular and animal models compared to unformulated peptide. ([Advanced Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39783908/))
- Moisturizer containing 5% panthenol, madecassoside, and copper-zinc-manganese decreased adverse reactions and downtime after ablative fractional carbon dioxide laser resurfacing with comparable efficacy to 0.02% triamcinolone acetonide cream in 20 subjects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30945430/))
- Topical dexpanthenol formulated in lipophilic vehicles improved stratum corneum hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to vehicle control in humans. ([Arzneimittel-Forschung, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10965426/))
- Hyaluronic acid, hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol, and isotonic saline nasal sprays all significantly improved dry nose symptoms over four weeks in 240 patients, with hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol providing superior nasal moisturisation compared to the other two. ([Auris, Nasus, Larynx, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32067777/))

## What reviewers say

Users with oily and combination skin frequently praise this booster for its ability to visibly minimize pores and smooth rough texture, often describing the results as transformative for congestion and post-acne marks. A significant minority of reviewers experience adverse reactions, including breakouts and redness, while others find the price point high for the small quantity provided.

- Liked: Minimizes enlarged pores (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Improves skin texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight & layerable (often mentioned)
- Liked: Controls oil production (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Fades marks & redness (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes breakouts/irritation (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Expensive for size (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: No visible results (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Sticky/tacky finish (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your serum as part of your PM routine. Start using it 3 times a week and move to daily use if your skin likes it.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toner, and right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and wait a minute ⏳for it to soak in.
- Apply the serum on clean and dry skin since your skin is not sensitive.
- Always do a patch test before using the serum for the first time, and avoid the eye area .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Paula's Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster a great fit for combination skin?

Paula's Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster is a great fit because niacinamide and acetyl glucosamine help control oily shine and smooth texture while glycerin and panthenol keep skin hydrated and balanced. Its antioxidants protect against daily environmental stress, and the gentle formula is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/), [Carcinogenesis, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11181450/)

### Which ingredients make this serum a good fit for combination skin?

Niacinamide and acetyl glucosamine make this serum a great fit for your combination skin by helping to balance oily shine and smooth out your texture. Glycerin and panthenol team up to keep your skin hydrated and support your skin barrier with a very low risk of irritation. Antioxidants like epigallocatechin gallate and ubiquinone also help protect your skin from daily environmental stress.
Sources: [Carcinogenesis, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11181450/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

### What does Niacinamide do for combination skin?

Niacinamide helps balance oily areas by reducing excess shine and pore size while keeping dry patches hydrated and smooth. It also works to calm redness and even out skin tone, making it very suitable for combination skin.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/), [Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34439563/)

### What does Acetyl Glucosamine do for combination skin?

Acetyl Glucosamine helps keep combination skin hydrated and smooth while evening out dark spots and patchiness. It also increases water content and supports skin renewal, making dry areas feel soft and oily zones balanced.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17348991/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19845667/)

### Where does this serum go in a skincare routine for combination skin?

This treatment goes in your evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing. Putting it in the evening keeps things simple and provides extra safety around sun exposure.

### Can I use this serum with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this treatment with retinol by applying the serum first and letting it absorb before putting on your retinol. This approach is unlikely to cause irritation because the formula has an excellent safety profile and includes soothing ingredients that help keep your skin calm.

### How often should I use this serum?

This treatment is great for your combination skin and helps manage oily shine while supporting hydration. You can use it in the evening as part of your routine, and it has an excellent safety profile with a low risk of irritation.

### Can this serum clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for combination skin?

This booster is unlikely to cause severe breakouts since it has an excellent safety profile for combination skin, though some reviewers do mention mild irritation or breakouts. Niacinamide and acetyl glucosamine help regulate oil production and improve texture to keep pores clear.

### Is this serum fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €9.99 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €35.29 at Amazon
- [Augustinus Bader The Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/augustinus-bader/the-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €333.00 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €39.99 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €36.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €13.67 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.de: €59.00 (https://www.amazon.de/dp/B07QCWTYJ2?tag=lovi-care-web-product05-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Niacinamide, Acetyl Glucosamine, Ascorbyl Glucoside Ascorbic Acid, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Allantoin, Boerhavia Diffusa Root Extract, Glycerin, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract Licorice Root Extract, Ubiquinone, Epigallocatechin Gallate, Beta-Glucan, Panthenol, Carnosine, Genistein, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Hydroxide, Xanthan Gum, Disodium Edta, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/10-niacinamide-booster/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/10-niacinamide-booster/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/paula-s-choice/10-niacinamide-booster/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/10-niacinamide-booster/for/combination-skin (this page)
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/10-niacinamide-booster/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/paula-s-choice/10-niacinamide-booster/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/10-niacinamide-booster/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/paula-s-choice/10-niacinamide-booster/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/10-niacinamide-booster/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/10-niacinamide-booster/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/paula-s-choice/10-niacinamide-booster/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/10-niacinamide-booster/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/10-niacinamide-booster/for/combination-skin