Retinol or niacinamide —
which to choose for your face
Skin that marks after every breakout, pores that look more visible by the end of the day, a complexion that has become less even: choosing between these two star actives depends first and foremost on what your skin is trying to correct.
Retinol or niacinamide: the key difference
Retinol speeds up the renewal of skin cells in the epidermis and supports collagen production. With regular, gradual use, it can smooth skin texture, soften fine lines and improve post-acne marks.
Niacinamide works as a regulating, strengthening active. It limits excess sebum, improves the appearance of pores, soothes some redness and supports the skin barrier.
Put simply, retinol is a transforming active; niacinamide is a balancing one. The first calls for patience and a carefully managed introduction. The second is easier to fit into your routine, even for sensitive skin.
Choosing by skin concern
Established wrinkles, loss of firmness, a dull complexion, stubborn acne marks: retinol often makes a real difference, but over the long term — it takes several weeks before you see smoother skin.
Oily skin, shine, visible pores, mild redness after breakouts: niacinamide is often the ideal first option — less dramatic overnight, but it builds lasting balance.
Niacinamide: the reassuring choice to start with
Use it morning or evening, after cleansing and before moisturiser. A moderate concentration, around 2 to 5%, is very often enough for lovely results on skin tone evenness and sebum regulation.
Retinol: visible results, with a real adjustment phase
Start with one or two applications a week, in the evening only, on clean, dry skin. A pea-sized amount is enough for the whole face — applying more won't speed anything up, but it will increase the risk of irritation.
Can you combine retinol and niacinamide?
Yes, and it's a particularly interesting pairing. Niacinamide helps support the skin barrier and calm the discomfort sometimes linked to retinol — it doesn't cancel out its effectiveness. Use niacinamide in the morning and retinol in the evening: it's the simplest option, especially at the start.
A routine for every skin profile
Sensitive, dehydrated or redness-prone skin: start with niacinamide. Retinol can be introduced later, once your skin is stable. Combination to oily skin: niacinamide every day, retinol 1 to 2 times a week if needed. Mature or sun-damaged skin: retinol can take centre stage in the evening, with niacinamide supporting in the morning.
- Niacinamide for clearer, less shiny, more even skin
- Retinol for skin texture, fine lines and established marks
- Both — niacinamide in the morning, retinol in the evening
- View the Niacinamide collection →
- View the Retinol collection →
- Retinol transforms over the long term — niacinamide balances day to day.
- Niacinamide is the reassuring choice to begin with, even for sensitive skin.
- Retinol needs a gradual introduction: 1 to 2 times a week, in the evening only.
- The two actives work well together — niacinamide in the morning, retinol in the evening.
- Daily SPF is non-negotiable as soon as you use retinol.
At Haru & Bom, a beautiful routine is built evening after evening, with precise choices and plenty of gentleness. Discover the full K-beauty selection →
