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Paula's Choice Clinical 20% Niacinamide Serum
Paula's Choice · Skincare

Paula's Choice Clinical 20% Niacinamide Serum

A high-concentration niacinamide serum from Paula's Choice that targets visible pores, uneven texture, and dullness. Built for anyone who wants a direct approach to refining skin tone without a complicated routine.

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Editor's Notes

This is a 20% niacinamide treatment serum in a lightweight, fast-absorbing formula. It delivers a notably higher concentration than most drugstore options, which typically hover around 5-10%. The texture is thin and slightly slippery, layering easily under moisturizer or sunscreen without pilling.

It's designed for people dealing with enlarged pores, post-breakout marks, or general unevenness who want a single active to address multiple concerns. Niacinamide works across skin types, and this strength makes it a good fit for someone who's already comfortable with actives and wants to see faster visible results. It plays well in a rotation with retinoids or acids, though you might space them out if your skin runs sensitive.

The main tradeoff is the concentration itself. While niacinamide is generally well-tolerated, jumping straight to 20% can cause temporary flushing or irritation for some users, especially if your skin isn't accustomed to it. Starting with every other day helps. For those who respond well, it becomes a reliable workhorse in a streamlined regimen.