If you’ve spent any time exploring skincare, chances are you’ve come across the ingredient niacinamide. This ingredient has, dare I say, reached icon status in the beauty world, and for good reason. But what exactly is niacinamide, and why should you consider incorporating it into your toner?

What is Niacinamide, and Why is It Used in Skincare?

Niacinamide, also known as Vitamin B3, is a water-soluble vitamin that improves skin texture and overall health. It’s widely celebrated for its ability to regulate sebum (oil) production, which makes it highly recommended for oily and combination skin types.

Additionally, niacinamide helps fade hyperpigmentation, strengthen the skin barrier, and reduce redness. These benefits make it an excellent ingredient for those looking to achieve a brighter, more even complexion.

Because of these benefits, it’s no surprise that niacinamide is a star ingredient in toners.

Why is a Toner Essential in Your Skincare Routine?

A toner is a light, fast-absorbing liquid that preps your skin after cleansing. It helps to remove any remaining impurities from your skin after you’ve washed your face, it balances the skin’s pH, and enhances the absorption of subsequent skincare products like serums and moisturisers. A good toner can also provide hydration, brightening, or oil control.

Now that you understand the power of niacinamide and the role of a toner, let’s explore the best niacinamide toners that can help you achieve shine-free, glowing skin.

1. Good Molecules Niacinamide Brightening Toner

This toner is designed to target uneven skin tone and dullness while controlling oil production. Its 3% niacinamide effectively reduces redness and minimizes the appearance of pores. It also contains arbutin, a skin-brightening agent that helps fade dark spots; Licorice Root Extract, for its soothing and brightening properties; and Sodium Hyaluronate (hyaluronic acid), to keep the skin plump.

This Brightening Toner is perfect for anyone struggling with hyperpigmentation and excess oil production because it works to keep the skin balanced and provide a radiant complexion. Price: ₦22,800. Where To Buy: Shop Coco Rosey.

2. Rice 70 Glow Milky Toner

Koreans have unlocked the benefits of rice in skincare; this toner is solid proof of that. It combines the power of niacinamide with the nourishing benefits of rice extract which makes it a great toner for brightening and hydration. Some of its other key ingredients include 71% Rice Bran Water that is rich in amino acids and antioxidants that boost the skin’s elasticity and radiance.

It also makes use of Hydrolysed Rice Protein to strengthen the skin barrier, and ceramides to help retain moisture and protect against environmental damage. Customers also praise this toner for improving their skin texture. The creamy, milky texture of this toner is great for those who want a balance between hydration and oil control. Price: $22. Where To Buy: Shop Amazon.

Customer review: I have pretty dry and sensitive skin so I am always working to incorporate extra hydrating steps in my morning and evening routines.  This Anua Rice Glow Milky Toner is an incredible addition to my routine. It’s so silky and hydrating. My skin drinks it right up.  It works so well both in the evening or in my morning routines. I like to use it right after my cleanser once my skin is clean but still damp for best results. It’s perfectly layered with all my other skincare products and keeps my skin feeling plump and moisturized for hours. Also worked as a great addition to my prep for my makeup days. Skin is dewy and my makeup sits well! This is probably my favorite milky ceramide toner I’ve ever tried! I would definitely repurchase when my current one runs out.

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3. Madagascar Centella Tone Brightening Boosting Toner

A gentle, soothing and effective toner, this toner’s formula focuses on brightening and calming irritated skin. It contains Centella Asiatica Extract which is an ingredient I love because it is an anti-inflammatory ingredient that calms the most sensitive skin.

In addition, it contains Papaya and Apple Extracts, natural exfoliants that help remove dead skin cells, and MadeWhite™ (Patented Centella Extract), which works to clear dullness and uneven skin tone. If your skin is sensitive and prone to irritation, but you still want niacinamide's oil-controlling and brightening benefits, you might want to try this toner because it was made for sensitive skin. It comes in a glass bottle and it has a watery texture that almost feels like nothing on the skin. Price: ₦19,500. Where To Buy: Shop Rhema Beauty Shop.

4. Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner

This toner is designed for oily skin and those with enlarged pores. It contains niacinamide, which minimises pores and reduces excess sebum. Ceramide strengthens the skin barrier, and Chamomile and burdock Root Extracts provide soothing and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Its non-greasy formula refreshes your skin without over-drying it. This toner also has tons of brilliant reviews from customers who use it to treat back acne, clear cystic acne, and balance skin compromised by heavy active ingredients. Price: $26. Where to Buy: Shop Amazon.

Customer review: LOVE IT!!!!!!! I have very sensitive skin. I realized I was having a lot of acne due to my sensitive skin responding to the fragrance that was present in my previous toner. I wanted a toner that was hydrating and non-irritating. This toner does them both!! I love that it doesn't have any fragrance, which is very hard to find these days. I love how great it absorbs on the skin and hydrates it. I have been using it twice a day for two months now and it has completely changed my skin!!!!

5. Pyunkang Yul Acne Toner

6. Dr. G R.E.D Blemish Clear Soothing Toner