# Skin Nutrition Botanicals Niacinamide 5% + Squalane Serum for skin with dark spots

**Lovi Fit: High fit for skin with dark spots.**
Normal Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skin-nutrition-botanicals/niacinamide-5-squalane-serum/for/dark-spots

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

Brand: [Skin Nutrition Botanicals](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/brands/skin-nutrition-botanicals)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dark spots: hyperpigmentation, sun spots, and uneven skin tone. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A great choice for skin with dark spots; a few serums fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Highly suitable for your normal skin, this serum effectively brightens and evens skin tone with moderate concentrations of kojic acid, while squalane provides emollient action.
- Glycerin and panthenol offer general hydration and soothing benefits, supporting your skin's overall health.
- The formula is safe for your normal skin, 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/skin-nutrition-botanicals/niacinamide-5-squalane-serum/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skin-nutrition-botanicals/niacinamide-5-squalane-serum/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skin-nutrition-botanicals/niacinamide-5-squalane-serum/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skin-nutrition-botanicals/niacinamide-5-squalane-serum/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skin-nutrition-botanicals/niacinamide-5-squalane-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skin-nutrition-botanicals/niacinamide-5-squalane-serum/for/dark-spots): High (this page)
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skin-nutrition-botanicals/niacinamide-5-squalane-serum/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skin-nutrition-botanicals/niacinamide-5-squalane-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skin-nutrition-botanicals/niacinamide-5-squalane-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Niacinamide, Squalane, Kojic Acid, Zinc Gluconate, Panthenol

## 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 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/))
- 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/))
- A topical formulation containing kojic acid, emblica extract, and glycolic acid demonstrated efficacy parity compared with hydroquinone 4% in multiethnic participants with mild to moderate facial dyschromia. ([Cutis, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21049734/))
- A nanoemulsion containing 1 mg/mL kojic dipalmitate and 5% rosehip oil demonstrated high incorporation efficiency, suitable physicochemical stability, antioxidant and depigmenting efficacy close to 1 mM ascorbic acid, and no cytotoxicity at concentrations from 0.06% to 1% in vitro. ([Pharmaceutics, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36839792/))
- Topical application of iron chelators kojic acid and deferiprone significantly accelerated wound healing in rats compared to control groups, with deferiprone showing superior efficacy due to higher antioxidant and iron chelation abilities. ([International Wound Journal, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22621771/))
- A dermocosmetic cream containing Punica granatum Pericarp extract, Salicylic acid, Niacinamide, Zinc gluconate, and Aqua Posae Filiformis significantly decreased inflammatory, non-inflammatory, and total lesion counts in subjects with mild to moderate acne compared to untreated hemi-faces after 15 days. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41487026/))
- Daily use of a deep cleansing gel containing salicylic acid 2%, zinc gluconate 0.2% and lipohydroxy acid 0.05% significantly reduced total lesion count by 56.3% after 84 days in 35 subjects with mild to moderate truncal acne. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36698447/))
- Different strains of Propionibacterium acnes modulate cutaneous innate immunity with varying pro-inflammatory potentials, with P. acnes type III showing the highest and P. avidum the weakest, and zinc gluconate down-regulates the expression of most induced immune markers. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23947673/))
- 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

Some users with sensitive skin have reported mild irritation. There are also infrequent comments regarding the brand's lack of transparency and difficulty in finding the product.

- Liked: Affordable price (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating and moisturizing (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Causes irritation (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Hard to find (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Lacks transparency (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Apply this serum as part of your PM routine starting 3x/week and build up to daily use if your skin likes it.
- Place the serum after cleansing and toning, but before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and wait a minute for it to absorb.
- Apply the serum on dry skin to help fade pigmentation effectively.
- Avoid the eye area and always use SPF 30+ during the day.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Skin Nutrition Botanicals Niacinamide 5% + Squalane Serum a great fit for skin with dark spots?

This serum is a great fit because it brightens and evens skin tone with kojic acid and niacinamide, while squalane and panthenol keep skin soft and calm. It is unlikely to cause irritation, making it safe for regular use on your skin.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

### Which ingredients make this serum a good fit for skin with dark spots?

Kojic acid and Niacinamide make this serum a great fit by effectively brightening and evening out skin tone on dark spots. Kojic acid helps fade discoloration, while Niacinamide supports an even complexion.

### What does Niacinamide do for skin with dark spots?

Niacinamide helps fade dark spots and uneven pigmentation by slowing down the transfer of pigment in the skin. It is generally well tolerated and may improve overall skin brightness with consistent use.
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 Squalane do for skin with dark spots?

Squalane helps keep skin soft and smooth, but it is unlikely to directly fade dark spots on its own. For hyperpigmentation, this type of product needs added brightening ingredients like vitamin C or antioxidants to help even out skin tone.

### Where does this serum go in a skincare routine for skin with dark spots?

This treatment serum goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing, keeping your skincare simple and 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 brighten dark spots, followed by your retinol. This formula is unlikely to cause irritation on normal skin since it lacks harsh ingredients and contains soothing panthenol and squalane to keep your skin calm and soft.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

### How often should I use this serum?

You can use this treatment serum in your evening routine for simplicity and extra safety around sun exposure. This serum is a great fit for skin with dark spots because it effectively brightens and evens skin tone with moderate kojic acid, while squalane softens and glycerin and panthenol keep skin calm.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

### Can this serum clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for skin with dark spots?

This serum is a great fit and is unlikely to cause breakouts or clogging for skin with dark spots because its ingredients are well tolerated and free of harsh additives. Squalane provides smooth softness without heavy trapping, while panthenol and glycerin help keep skin calm and hydrated.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for skin with dark spots

- [Guerlain Abeille Royale Double R Renew & Repair Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/guerlain/abeille-royale-double-r-renew-and-repair-advanced-serum/for/dark-spots) — High fit — S$156.09 at Amazon
- [Neutrogena Rapid Tone Repair Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/neutrogena/rapid-tone-repair-20-vitamin-c-face-serum-capsules/for/dark-spots) — High fit — S$45.89 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/dark-spots) — High fit — S$50.41 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — S$30.40 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [ma:nyo Bifida Biome Ampoule Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/ma-nyo/bifida-biome-ampoule-toner/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — S$36.16 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Centella Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skin1004/centella-cream/for/dark-spots) — 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

Glycerin, Rice Ferment Filtrate, Kojic Acid, Sucrose, Squalane, Saccharomyces Xylinum Black Tea Ferment, Panthenol, Zinc Gluconate, Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters, Disodium Edta, Carbomer, Beta-Carotene, Lauryl Glucoside, Xanthan Gum, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Tocopherol
## 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/skin-nutrition-botanicals/niacinamide-5-squalane-serum/for/dark-spots
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skin-nutrition-botanicals/niacinamide-5-squalane-serum/for/dark-spots
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/skin-nutrition-botanicals/niacinamide-5-squalane-serum/for/dark-spots
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skin-nutrition-botanicals/niacinamide-5-squalane-serum/for/dark-spots
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/skin-nutrition-botanicals/niacinamide-5-squalane-serum/for/dark-spots
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/skin-nutrition-botanicals/niacinamide-5-squalane-serum/for/dark-spots
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skin-nutrition-botanicals/niacinamide-5-squalane-serum/for/dark-spots
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skin-nutrition-botanicals/niacinamide-5-squalane-serum/for/dark-spots
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skin-nutrition-botanicals/niacinamide-5-squalane-serum/for/dark-spots
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skin-nutrition-botanicals/niacinamide-5-squalane-serum/for/dark-spots
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skin-nutrition-botanicals/niacinamide-5-squalane-serum/for/dark-spots (this page)
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/skin-nutrition-botanicals/niacinamide-5-squalane-serum/for/dark-spots
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/skin-nutrition-botanicals/niacinamide-5-squalane-serum/for/dark-spots