# Paula's Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster for acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/paula-s-choice/10-niacinamide-booster/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 Singapore.

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

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 great choice for acne-prone skin; a few serums fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Offers excellent skin tone evening and pore minimizing for your combination skin, as niacinamide and acetyl glucosamine target inflammation and reduce pore appearance while also providing seboregulation and barrier repair.
- The inclusion of ingredients like ascorbyl glucoside and panthenol further supports brightening and soothing effects, enhancing overall skin health.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

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

- 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/))
- Niacinamide significantly decreased hyperpigmentation and increased skin lightness compared with vehicle alone after 4 weeks of use in women by inhibiting melanosome transfer. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/))
- 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 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 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/))
- 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/))
- Liposomes containing N-acetyl glucosamine prepared using the fusion method significantly increased skin moisture content compared to empty liposomes in human volunteers over a 5-hour period. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23725302/))
- 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 and start 3x/week before working up to daily use.
- Apply this treatment after cleansing and toner, and before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the product on clean, dry skin to help manage your breakouts safely.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

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

Paula's Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster is a great fit because it helps calm inflammation, balance oil, and shrink the look of pores without causing irritation. Ingredients like niacinamide, acetyl glucosamine, and panthenol work together to soothe the skin and keep it healthy and clear.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17348991/)

### Which ingredients make this treatment a good fit for acne-prone skin?

Niacinamide and acetyl glucosamine make this treatment a great fit because they target inflammation, calm redness, and help shrink the look of pores on oily and breakout-prone areas. Ingredients like licorice root extract and panthenol also help soothe the skin and keep it healthy.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

### 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 Acetyl Glucosamine do for acne-prone skin?

Acetyl Glucosamine is not a standard treatment for acne, but it helps fade dark marks and uneven spots left behind after breakouts clear. When you have acne-prone skin, a product of this type needs soothing ingredients and lightweight hydrators that keep pores clear without feeling greasy.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17348991/)

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

This treatment goes in your evening routine, which helps keep things simple and safe around sun exposure. Niacinamide and similar soothing ingredients help calm acne-prone skin and reduce pore appearance with a very low likelihood of irritation.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31461548/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36798538/)

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

Yes, you can use this treatment with a retinol, applying the treatment first and following with your retinol once it absorbs. This pairing helps calm the skin and manage breakouts while keeping irritation unlikely.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38102855/)

### How often should I use this treatment?

This treatment is a great fit for your acne-prone skin and is used in the evening. It helps calm the skin and reduce pore size while having an excellent safety profile with a low risk of irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17348991/)

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

Paula's Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster is unlikely to clog pores or cause purging because it is a great fit for acne-prone skin with an excellent safety profile and no harsh or prohibited ingredients. However, some reviewers do moderately complain about breakouts or irritation, so you may want to introduce it slowly to see how your skin reacts.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for acne-prone skin

- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — S$50.41 at Amazon
- [Skin1004 Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skin1004/probio-cica-intensive-ampoule/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — S$28.55 at Amazon
- [PCA Skin C&E Advanced with Hexylresorcinol and Silymarin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/pca-skin/c-and-e-advanced/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — S$192.38 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — S$30.40 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [TROIAREUKE H+Cocktail Purifying Ampoule Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/troiareuke/h-cocktail-purifying-ampoule-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — S$168.51 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Centella Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skin1004/centella-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — S$33.87 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in Singapore has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## 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/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/10-niacinamide-booster/for/acne-prone-skin
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- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/paula-s-choice/10-niacinamide-booster/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/10-niacinamide-booster/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/10-niacinamide-booster/for/acne-prone-skin