# The INKEY List Niacinamide Serum for sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for sensitive skin.**
Normal Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/sensitive-skin

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

Brand: [The INKEY List](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/brands/the-inkey-list)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with sensitive skin: redness, stinging, and reactions to new products. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for sensitive skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Suitable for normal skin, this serum contains niacinamide and glycerin to help regulate sebum production and maintain skin balance, addressing your general skincare needs. Panthenol and allantoin offer supportive benefits for redness and irritation, providing hydration and soothing effects.
- The formulation is safe for your sensitive skin, as it avoids harsh ingredients and includes soothing components like niacinamide and panthenol.
- This product offers moderate benefits for your skin concerns and type.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average (this page)
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Niacinamide, Glycerin, Squalane, Sodium Hyaluronate, Leuconostoc Radish Root Ferment Filtrate

## What the research says

- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Squalane at 0.005-0.015% counteracts UVA-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen metabolism inhibition while stimulating fibroblast migration in human dermal fibroblasts. ([Molecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363772/))
- Plant-derived squalane protected human dermal fibroblasts against UVA-induced damage by counteracting ROS formation, suppressing apoptosis-related proteins p53, caspase-3, caspase-9, and PARP, and restoring the pro-survival p-Akt/mTOR pathway. ([Antioxidants, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40722956/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users with oily and blemish-prone skin frequently praise this serum for its ability to regulate sebum production and calm active breakouts without stripping moisture. The majority report clearer skin and reduced redness. A notable minority experience texture issues, such as a sticky finish or white residue if the product is not applied carefully.

- Liked: Controls excess oil (often mentioned)
- Liked: Great value & packaging (often mentioned)
- Liked: Reduces redness & blemishes (often mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating & lightweight (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Improves skin texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Sticky or tacky finish (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: White residue/crystallization (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts/irritation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Foaming/soaping effect (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your serum in the PM routine, starting 3 times a week before building up to daily use if your skin is happy.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toning, but before putting on your moisturizer for the best results.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and wait a minute ⏱ for it to soak in.
- Since your skin is sensitive and easily irritated, apply the serum on completely dry skin to help keep it calm.
- Always do a patch test before your first use and avoid getting the serum too close to your eyes .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does The INKEY List Niacinamide work for sensitive skin?

This serum works moderately well for sensitive skin, as it contains niacinamide and panthenol to help soothe redness and keep the skin calm. It is generally safe for everyday use, though products that fit this skin better typically need extra hydrating agents, potent antioxidants, and skin-repairing ingredients that target irritation without any risk of upset.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40613435/)

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

Niacinamide and panthenol make this serum a good fit for sensitive skin by helping calm redness and irritation without harsh ingredients. A treatment for sensitive skin needs soothing components like panthenol and niacinamide, along with hydrating ingredients and antioxidants that protect the skin barrier without causing irritation.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40613435/)

### What does Niacinamide do for sensitive skin?

Niacinamide helps calm sensitive skin by strengthening the skin barrier and reducing redness and irritation. It is very well tolerated and may improve overall comfort and resilience with regular use.
Sources: [Cutis, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16209160/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17147561/)

### What does Glycerin do for sensitive skin?

Glycerin helps keep sensitive skin soft and deeply hydrated while supporting the skin barrier. It is unlikely to cause irritation and may protect against dryness and roughness.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18510666/), [Acta Dermato-venereologica, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10598752/)

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

This treatment serum goes in your evening routine after your cleansing and toning steps, and before your moisturizer. Putting it in the evening helps keep your sensitive skin safe around sun exposure.

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

You can use this serum with retinol by applying the serum first to help calm the skin and keep it balanced, followed by your retinol. A good routine for sensitive skin may help reduce any retinoid-induced discomfort.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38102855/)

### How often should I use this serum?

You can use this treatment serum in the evening as part of your routine. This product of this type needs calming ingredients like panthenol and soothing components to keep sensitive skin comfortable and hydrated.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40613435/)

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

This serum is unlikely to cause breakouts or clogged pores for sensitive skin since it avoids harsh ingredients and has a low complaint rate for irritation. A product of this type needs lightweight hydrators like glycerin and soothing ingredients like panthenol to stay gentle and keep skin calm.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40613435/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for sensitive skin

- [Paula's Choice RESIST Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/resist-super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 461.00 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — SAR 865.37 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — SAR 130.97 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 191.00 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 141.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Bioderma Bioderma Photoderm Mineral SPF 50+](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/bioderma/photoderm-mineral-fluide-spf50/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 132.22 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.sa: SAR 73.80 (https://www.amazon.sa/dp/B09N9Z7NBS?tag=lovisa02-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Niacinamide, Glycerin, Propanediol, Butylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Squalane, Xanthan Gum, Glycine Soja Oil Soybean Oil, Allantoin, Sodium Phytate, Polysorbate 60, Panthenol, Glycolipids, Leuconostoc Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Sorbitan Isostearate, Glycine Soja Soybean Sterols, Citric Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Disodium Phosphate, Sodium Phosphate
## 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-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/sensitive-skin (this page)
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/sensitive-skin