The Best Niacinamide Serums Under ₦20,000 

Niacinamide this, niacinamide that. These days, niacinamide seems to be in every skincare product, from cleanser to toner to sunscreen and serums. Some skincare lovers swear by it like gospel, while others raise their eyebrows and are unsure whether it actually lives up to its hype. 

It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking niacinamide is the miracle ingredient that can solve all your skin concerns from acne, pigmentation, dullness, oiliness, ageing, but is that really the case?

Let’s break it down before we get to the juicy list of budget-friendly gems.

What Exactly Is Niacinamide and What Can It Do For Your Skin?

Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, is an active that has quietly built a cult following over time. According to a comprehensive 2021 review, niacinamide has been proven effective for a wide range of skin conditions including acne, rosacea, hyperpigmentation, melasma, and even the visible signs of ageing like fine lines and wrinkles.

It improves skin barrier function, calms inflammation, regulates oil production, and fades dark spots. The best news is that it is generally well-tolerated by most skin types.

You also need to know that concentration matters a lot when it comes to niacinamide. While 2 - 5% niacinamide is usually the sweet spot for most skin types, higher concentrations (like 10-15%) can sometimes cause irritation or purging, especially for sensitive skin. So, if you’ve tried niacinamide and hated it, the formulation might just not have been right for you.

With all that in mind, I’ve rounded up some of the best niacinamide serums under ₦20,000 in Nigeria, ones that have earned a spot in my routine and are worthy of yours too.

Best For: Dry, sensitive, or dehydrated skin types.

This one feels like a big comforting hug for the skin. Despite its 10% strength, it’s shockingly gentle, thanks to its hydrating base of sunflower seed oil, glycerin, and panthenol. It doesn’t sting, burn, or make your skin feel tight and layers beautifully under other skincare.

Over time, you’ll notice a great difference in the way it smoothens and evens out your skin tone and calms post-acne redness. Price: ₦15,500. Where to Buy: Shop Rhema Beauty Shop.

Best For: Oily, acne-prone, and congested skin.

This is the serum that started the niacinamide obsession for most of us. Affordable and effective, it combines 10% niacinamide with 1% zinc PCA to regulate oil and reduce breakouts. If your skin gets shiny two hours into your day, this niacinamide serum is for you.

Although you have to be cautious because this can be drying or irritating if it is used alongside other strong exfoliating acids like salicylic or glycolic acid. Price: ₦13,500. Where To Buy: Shop Teeka4.

3. Beauty Formulas 10% Niacinamide Illuminating Serum

Best For: Beginners or those who want a simple starter niacinamide.

A simple and straightforward option that’s great for skincare newbies. This serum contains soothing aloe vera, panthenol, and allantoin to reduce the harshness of the niacinamide. It’s incredibly wallet-friendly and will not irritate your skin at all.

If you’re unsure where to start with niacinamide, this Beauty Formulas Illuminating serum is your green light. Price: ₦4,500. Where To Buy: Shop Allure.

READ ALSO: The Best 6 Sunscreens For Dry, Thirsty Skin

Best For: Dull, lacklustre, and stressed skin.

This formula feels like a juice cleanse for your face. It’s packed with botanical extracts like goji berry, pineapple, and passion fruit, and it works to boost your skin’s radiance over a few weeks. Plus, the aloe vera base is soothing for sensitive skin. If your complexion needs a pick-me-up, this serum deserves a spot on your vanity. Price: ₦13,000. Where To Buy: 24 Eleven.

Customer review: “Really like this product it's easily absorbed into the skin leaving it feeling silky soft but firm. I prefer to use it neat a couple of times a week. However I've also added a couple of drops into my night time moisturiser but it's harder to tell the effects as using it neatly. I also like the fact it doesn't have much scent. I will buy this again as I can visibly see the effects after using it.”

5. TIAM Vita B3 Source

Best For: Hyperpigmentation and stubborn dark spots.

This serum mixes 10% niacinamide with 2% arbutin, a combo that tackles uneven skin tone and sunspots like no other. It’s gentle but mighty, and you’ll start noticing improvements in your dark marks within a month. Many people love this serum because it is well tolerated by many skin types, brightens the skin, and gives it a beautiful glow.

With this serum, I’ll advise you to start slowly by using it every other night and monitor how your skin reacts to it. It contains quite a high percentage of niacinamide (10%), and arbutin is a brightening ingredient that might be too harsh for sensitive skin. Price: ₦10,800. Where To Buy: Shop Teeka4.

Customer review: “Great product. I have been to multiple dermatologists and gotten nowhere. Within 2weeks I was getting compliments on how my skin was glowing and looked lighter.”

READ ALSO: These 7 Vitamin C Serums Will Give You Glowing Skin

Best For: Acne-prone skin, scarring, and oil regulation.

This one is an intense serum, but in the best way. With 15% niacinamide, 2% NAG (a brightening ingredient), and zinc PCA, it’s an excellent serum for anyone battling hormonal acne and stubborn scars. It’s strong, so you might have to ease into using it by applying it every other night at first. Price: ₦15,800. Where To Buy: Shop Buy Better.

Best For: Skin that needs glow, hydration, and a calming effect.

If your skin is easily irritated but you still want that niacinamide glow, this is the one. With 70% peach extract and a gentle dose of niacinamide, it hydrates, brightens, and smells faintly fruity without being overpowering. It’s a treat, honestly. Plus, adding fermented ingredients and ceramides makes it ideal for barrier repair. Price: ₦17,700. Where To Buy: Shop Teeka4.

READ ALSO: The Truth About Vitamin C & Glutathione Drips, According to an Esthetician

8. Face Facts Niacinamide Serum

Best For: Those on a tight budget.

Is it fancy? No. Is it effective? Absolutely. This serum contains basic hydrating ingredients plus niacinamide. It won’t radically transform your skin overnight, but it helps maintain balance and tone, especially if you already use other active ingredients

It’s perfect for teens or anyone wanting low-commitment skincare. Price: ₦4,800. Where To Buy: Shop Miwa Beauty Store.

If you’re new to skincare or a seasoned product junkie, there’s a niacinamide serum under ₦20,000 that can fit into your routine and transform your skin. Start slow, listen to your skin, and don’t be afraid to experiment (patch test always!). Your dream skin might just be one serum away.