For oily skin, niacinamide is worth it: it helps regulate sebum, reduces the look of pores and calms redness, all at a low price and with good tolerance.
What niacinamide does for oily skin
It signals glands to produce less sebum, which cuts shine through the day. Over time, pores look smaller because they're less stretched by oil and dead cells.
How to use it
Apply once a day, at night, after cleansing and before moisturizer. Start at 2–5% if your skin is sensitive; 10% works well on resilient, oily skin.
Combinations that work
Niacinamide pairs with salicylic acid (for acne), vitamin C (mornings) and retinol (nights, with moisturizer). The old idea that it "cancels" vitamin C is outdated.