# The Ordinary Niacinamide 5% Face and Body Emulsion for acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: Low fit for acne-prone skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/niacinamide-5-face-and-body-emulsion/for/acne-prone-skin

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

Brand: [The Ordinary](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/brands/the-ordinary)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/best/moisturizers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with acne-prone skin: breakouts, blackheads, and post-acne marks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A weak match for acne-prone skin; the moisturizers alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Suitable for combination skin as niacinamide helps regulate oil production and glycerin provides hydration, balancing your skin's needs.
- While beneficial for your skin type, the formula offers general hydration and barrier support, which are not the primary treatments for your acne and breakouts.
- The product is safe for your skin, containing no harsh or irritating ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/niacinamide-5-face-and-body-emulsion/for/oily-skin): Low
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/niacinamide-5-face-and-body-emulsion/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/niacinamide-5-face-and-body-emulsion/for/combination-skin): Low
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/niacinamide-5-face-and-body-emulsion/for/sensitive-skin): Low
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/niacinamide-5-face-and-body-emulsion/for/acne-prone-skin): Low (this page)
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/niacinamide-5-face-and-body-emulsion/for/dark-spots): Low
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/niacinamide-5-face-and-body-emulsion/for/mature-skin): Low
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/niacinamide-5-face-and-body-emulsion/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/niacinamide-5-face-and-body-emulsion/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Niacinamide, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol

## What the research says

- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- Exposure of epidermal full-thickness skin equivalents to a blend of betaine, pentylene glycol, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and Rhodiola rosea root extract significantly increased antioxidant, skin barrier, and oxidative stress biomarkers while reducing the negative impact of hydrogen peroxide on MMP3, MMP12, FBN2, ANXA1, and HGF, whereas a blend of Narcissus tazetta bulb extract and Schisandra chinensis fruit extract significantly increased 8 growth factors, 7 signaling, 7 structural/barrier function, 7 oxidative stress biomarkers, and specific microRNAs over control levels. ([International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30373163/))
- 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/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))

## Why other moisturizers fit acne-prone skin better

- Co-delivery of paeonol and madecassoside via nanoemulsions improved transdermal delivery, promoted barrier repair proteins, inhibited inflammatory cytokine secretion in cellular and 3D models, and reduced transepidermal water loss and acne in human facial skin compared to free components. ([Molecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37446936/))
- A panthenol-enriched mask improved skin hydration, regulated sebum, and reduced redness and TEWL across dry sensitive, oily sensitive, and oily acne skin subgroups with excellent tolerance and no adverse reactions. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38366684/))
- A facial serum containing snail secretion filtrate, Calendula officinalis, and Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract significantly reduced inflammatory acne lesions compared to placebo in 66 participants with mild-to-moderate maskne over 12 weeks. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35763437/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users with sensitive, oily, and acne-prone skin highly praise this emulsion for its ultra-lightweight hydration and ability to fade dark spots without irritation. It is frequently noted for improving skin texture and reducing redness, though some users with drier skin or stubborn hyperpigmentation find it requires layering with a richer moisturizer or takes time to show visible results.

- Liked: Lightweight & fast absorbing (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle & non-irritating (often mentioned)
- Liked: Improves texture & tone (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Small bottle size (often mentioned)
- Liked: Versatile application (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Insufficient hydration (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Packaging design (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Slow or minimal results (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your moisturizer twice a day in your AM and PM routines. Apply it daily to help keep breakouts under control.
- Apply after your cleanser and toner, and make sure to use your SPF right after in the morning.
- Gently spread a small amount of moisturizer over your face using soft motions. Let it absorb into the skin for a minute before getting dressed or applying makeup.
- Apply on slightly damp skin to help lock in extra moisture. This keeps your combination skin balanced without feeling heavy.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use. Stop using if you feel any irritation.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### Why is The Ordinary Niacinamide 5% Face and Body Emulsion a weak match for acne-prone skin?

The Ordinary Niacinamide 5% Face and Body Emulsion is a weak match because it offers general hydration and barrier support rather than targeting acne and breakouts directly, even though niacinamide helps regulate oil and glycerin hydrates. A product of this type needs effective ingredients that provide excellent benefits for acne and blemishes, pose no risk of irritation, and contain soothing extracts or targeted acne treatments to truly fit acne-prone skin.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Which ingredients make this cream a poor fit for acne-prone skin?

This cream is a weak match for your acne-prone skin because, while it provides general hydration and barrier support with niacinamide and glycerin, these are not the primary treatments needed for acne and breakouts. Acne-prone skin needs a moisturizing treatment rich in effective ingredients that target blemishes directly and provide excellent skin repair without irritation.

### What does Niacinamide do for acne-prone skin?

Niacinamide helps acne-prone skin by reducing both inflamed and uninflamed breakouts and calming redness. It is also very helpful for keeping oily skin balanced by cutting down on excess oil production, and it is well tolerated by most people.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38299457/), [Cureus, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38725769/)

### What does Glycerin do for acne-prone skin?

Glycerin helps keep acne-prone skin hydrated and calm without clogging pores or feeling heavy. It supports the skin barrier so it stays soft and smooth while handling everyday treatments.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18510666/), [International Journal of Toxicology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31840548/)

### Where does it go in a skincare routine for acne-prone skin?

This moisturizing treatment goes in the morning and evening routine after cleansing and toning, and before sunscreen in the day or a treatment in the evening. It is safe for your skin and offers general hydration and barrier support, though it is not a primary treatment for acne and breakouts. Acne-prone skin typically needs targeted ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to directly address blemishes.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/), [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31461548/)

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

You can use this cream with retinol by applying the moisturizer first to keep your skin soft and help prevent irritation. This type of product works well for acne-prone skin when it includes soothing ingredients and barrier support.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/), [The Journal of Dermatology, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24930436/)

### How often should I use it?

You can use this moisturizing treatment twice daily to keep your skin hydrated and supported. This product of this type needs targeted acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to effectively manage breakouts.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32141711/), [Health Science Reports, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34141902/)

### Can this cream clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for acne-prone skin?

This cream is unlikely to clog pores or cause purging, but it may not help much with your breakouts because it only offers general hydration and barrier support rather than targeted acne treatment. Acne-prone skin needs targeted blemish-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to clear active breakouts and keep pores clear.

### Can I use it around the eyes or on my body?

This product is safe to use around the eyes and on the body because it contains no harsh or irritating ingredients. It provides gentle moisture and barrier support, though acne-prone skin needs targeted treatments to actively clear breakouts.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Cetearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for acne-prone skin

- [belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/belif/the-true-cream-aqua-bomb/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — €35.96 at Amazon
- [Allies of Skin Peptides & Antioxidants Firming Daily Treatment](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/allies-of-skin/peptides-and-antioxidants-firming-daily-treatment/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — €104.95 at Amazon
- [ANUA Heartleaf 70% Soothing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/anua/heartleaf-70-soothing-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — €25.29 at Amazon

## Routine for acne-prone skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [B.LAB Matcha Hydrating Foam Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/b-lab/matcha-hydrating-foam-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €13.99 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €19.90 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Centella Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skin1004/centella-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €19.20 at Amazon
- SPF: [d'Alba Piedmont Waterfull Mild Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/d-alba/piedmont-waterfull-mild-sunscreen/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €16.75 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €11.83 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [B.LAB Matcha Hydrating Foam Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/b-lab/matcha-hydrating-foam-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €13.99 at Amazon
- Cleansing Toner: [Pixi Glow Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/pixi/glow-tonic/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €18.05 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €10.20 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Centella Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skin1004/centella-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €19.20 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €11.83 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [B.LAB Matcha Hydrating Foam Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/b-lab/matcha-hydrating-foam-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €13.99 at Amazon
- Enzyme Powder: [Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/dermalogica/daily-microfoliant/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €72.82 at Amazon
- Cleansing Mask: [VT Cosmetics Cica Purifying Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/vt-cosmetics/cica-purifying-mask/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €15.72 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €19.90 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €10.20 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Lookfantastic: €13.46 (https://www.lookfantastic.nl/p/the-ordinary-niacinamide-5-face-and-body-emulsion-100ml/15417537/)
Prices checked 4 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Niacinamide, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Cetearyl Isononanoate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Glucoside, Dimethicone, Tocopherol, Xanthan Gum, Carbomer, Sodium Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin
## 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/the-ordinary/niacinamide-5-face-and-body-emulsion/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/niacinamide-5-face-and-body-emulsion/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-ordinary/niacinamide-5-face-and-body-emulsion/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/niacinamide-5-face-and-body-emulsion/for/acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/niacinamide-5-face-and-body-emulsion/for/acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/niacinamide-5-face-and-body-emulsion/for/acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/niacinamide-5-face-and-body-emulsion/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/niacinamide-5-face-and-body-emulsion/for/acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/niacinamide-5-face-and-body-emulsion/for/acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/niacinamide-5-face-and-body-emulsion/for/acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/niacinamide-5-face-and-body-emulsion/for/acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/niacinamide-5-face-and-body-emulsion/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/niacinamide-5-face-and-body-emulsion/for/acne-prone-skin