# The INKEY List Niacinamide Serum for dry skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for dry skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Excellent.

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

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

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

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dry skin: flakiness, tightness, dehydration, fine lines, and wrinkles. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for dry skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate suitability for your dry skin as glycerin and panthenol provide humectant action to hydrate and soothe. Niacinamide in moderate concentrations helps regulate sebum production and minimize pore appearance, offering general skincare benefits.
- The serum's safety profile is excellent for your dry skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the inclusion of soothing components like niacinamide and glycerin.
- While it provides hydration and pore-cleansing, the formula lacks sufficient emollient and occlusive ingredients for optimal hydration for your dry or flaky skin.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Why other serums fit dry skin better

- A topical serum containing vitamin C, vitamin E, and raspberry leaf cell culture extract improved skin color, elasticity, radiance, smoothness, scaliness, and wrinkles compared to the untreated contralateral side in fifty female volunteers. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/))
- Treatment with cross-linked hyaluronic acid-based microneedle patches combined with acetyl hexapeptide-8 or epidermal growth factor significantly improved wrinkles and skin hydration compared to the patch alone in Korean females over 29 days. ([Annals of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33911590/))

## 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

- Apply this serum PM, starting 3×/week and working up to daily use as your skin adjusts.
- Place the serum after cleansing and toner, but right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the serum on slightly damp skin to help lock in extra moisture.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

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

The INKEY List Niacinamide Serum offers moderate suitability for dry skin as glycerin and panthenol hydrate and soothe, but dry skin needs a product with rich, softening ingredients and skin barrier supporters to lock in moisture.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

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

Glycerin, panthenol, and sodium hyaluronate make this serum a good fit for dry skin by pulling in moisture to hydrate and soothe. However, dry skin needs a product of this type to include rich, softening ingredients and skin barrier sealants like ceramides, peptides, or plant oils for deep and lasting hydration.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

### What does Niacinamide do for dry skin?

Niacinamide helps dry skin by strengthening the skin barrier, increasing hydration, and reducing water loss. It supports ceramide production and helps keep the surface smooth and calm. This ingredient tends to be very well tolerated and is unlikely to irritate dry skin.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17147561/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42108609/)

### What does Glycerin do for dry skin?

Glycerin helps dry skin by drawing in moisture and keeping it locked in, which makes the skin feel much softer and smoother. It also supports your natural skin barrier to stop water from escaping easily. A product for dry skin needs extra ingredients like hyaluronic acid and soothing plant extracts to truly calm and hydrate dry patches.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18510666/)

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

This serum goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing. A product for this skin type needs rich softening and sealing ingredients to lock in moisture and smooth flakes.

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

You can use this treatment serum with retinol by applying the serum first in your evening routine, followed by your moisturizer to lock it in. Because this formula provides gentle hydration with ingredients like glycerin and panthenol, it is unlikely to irritate dry skin when combined with retinol.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### How often should I use this serum?

This serum works well in your evening routine, but a dry skin like yours needs a product of this type to also include rich oils and butters or sealing ingredients that lock in moisture.

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

This serum is unlikely to cause breakouts or clog pores for dry skin, as it has a very low risk of irritation and lacks harsh ingredients. Its safety profile is excellent, though dry skin still needs richer, creamy ingredients and oils to stay fully soft and smooth.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for dry skin

- [ma:nyo Bifida Biome Complex Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/ma-nyo/bifida-biome-complex-ampoule/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — S$40.09 at Amazon
- [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Tone Brightening Capsule Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-tone-brightening-capsule-ampoule/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — S$54.11 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — S$50.41 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — S$25.06 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [COSRX Propolis Synergy Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cosrx/propolis-synergy-toner/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — S$41.07 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [d'Alba First Spray Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/d-alba/first-spray-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — S$25.94 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## 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/dry-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/dry-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/dry-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/dry-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/dry-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/dry-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/dry-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/dry-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/dry-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/dry-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/dry-skin (this page)
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/dry-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-inkey-list/niacinamide-serum/for/dry-skin