Can I use this with a Vitamin C serum?

Yes. Since this booster already contains Vitamin C, you can use it as your Vitamin C source. If you also have a separate Vitamin C serum, layer them at different times of day or alternate routines to avoid potential irritation.

Is 10% niacinamide too strong for beginners?

Not necessarily. Niacinamide is generally well-tolerated even at higher concentrations. Start once daily and observe how your skin responds before increasing frequency.

Can I use it under SPF?

Absolutely. Apply the booster first, let it absorb, then follow with moisturizer and SPF. Niacinamide works well in morning routines.

How long before I see results?

Most people notice visible improvement in skin texture and pore appearance within 4–8 weeks of consistent use.

Is it suitable for oily skin?

Yes. Niacinamide helps regulate sebum production, making it particularly effective for oily and combination skin types.

Can I mix it with retinol?

Yes. Niacinamide is one of the few actives that pairs safely with retinol — it can even help reduce the irritation retinol sometimes causes.

Is Paula's Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster worth it in 2026?

For oily, combination or uneven skin, yes. It combines niacinamide with vitamin C and licorice extract, so it targets pores and dullness in one small step.

How do I use the 10% Niacinamide Booster?

Apply a few drops after cleansing and toning, either alone or mixed into your serum or moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with sunscreen.

Can niacinamide cause breakouts or redness?

Some people notice mild redness or tingling at 10%. If that happens, use it every other day or mix it into your moisturizer, and stop if irritation continues.

Skincare · Niacinamide Booster

Paula's Choice BOOST 10% Niacinamide: The Pore-Minimizing Booster Worth the Hype

June 17, 2026 · 7 min read

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Paula's Choice BOOST 10% Niacinamide Booster 20ml bottle

A high-potency niacinamide booster with Vitamin B3, Vitamin C and Licorice Extract — for visibly refined pores and brighter skin.

My Honest Take

I've tried a lot of niacinamide serums. Most hover around 5%. Paula's Choice went to 10% and added a supporting cast — Vitamin C and Licorice Extract — that actually justifies the jump.

This isn't a serum you wear alone. It's a booster. You mix it into your moisturizer or layer it underneath. That format might feel unfamiliar at first, but it gives you flexibility — and it works.

After four weeks of use, my pores looked smaller. My skin tone felt more even. And the texture was gone.

Quick Facts

Product: Paula's Choice BOOST 10% Niacinamide Face Serum Booster
Size: 20 ml / 0.67 fl oz
Key Actives: 10% Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Vitamin C, Licorice Extract
Skin Types: All skin types
Fragrance-Free: Yes
Rating: 4.5/5 (1,511 reviews) · 2K+ bought last month
Format: Booster — mix with moisturizer or apply solo

Why Niacinamide at 10%?

Niacinamide is one of the most researched skincare ingredients available. At 5%, it reduces redness and strengthens the skin barrier. At 10%, it goes further — visibly minimizing pores, reducing hyperpigmentation, and improving overall skin clarity.

Paula's Choice pairs this with Vitamin C for brightening and Licorice Extract as a natural skin-tone equalizer. Together, they target dullness, uneven texture and enlarged pores — without irritation.

What It Does

Minimizes pores: 10% niacinamide tightens and refines pore appearance over time.

Brightens skin tone: Vitamin C and Licorice Extract fade dark spots and even out skin color.

Smooths texture: Regular use reduces rough patches and uneven surface texture.

Strengthens the barrier: Niacinamide supports the skin's lipid barrier, improving resilience and moisture retention.

Fragrance-free: Safe for sensitive skin. No added fragrance, no unnecessary irritants.

How to Use It

Apply a few drops to clean, toned skin before moisturizer. Or mix 2–3 drops directly into your moisturizer for an easy boost. Use morning or evening — or both.

Who Should Use This

Anyone with visibly enlarged pores
People dealing with uneven skin tone or post-acne marks
Those looking to brighten dull, tired-looking skin
Sensitive skin types who want actives without fragrance
Anyone wanting to upgrade their current moisturizer with a targeted booster

Final Verdict

Paula's Choice BOOST 10% Niacinamide is a serious skincare product. It's backed by research, formulated without unnecessary additives, and delivers visible results. The booster format is smart — you get flexibility and you're not locked into a one-size-fits-all routine. For anyone targeting pores, uneven tone, or dull skin, this earns a permanent spot in the lineup.

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