General Advice

Niacinamide is one of the most versatile actives in skincare, but most people only scratch the surface of what it can do. Here is the evidence-backed guide for why 10% niacinamide suits Indian skin concerns.

Retinol has the strongest clinical evidence of any cosmetic active, but starting it wrong causes PIH and irritation. Here is the slow-start protocol for /PHD/'s 0.3% Retinol Serum that dermatologists recommend for Indian skin.

Niacinamide at 10% is one of the most evidence-backed actives for Indian skin: it inhibits melanosome transfer to reduce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), measurably reduces sebum output, and strengthens the skin barrier. Results begin at 4 weeks; the full benefit accumulates over 8–12 weeks of consistent use.

Not all niacinamide serums do the same thing. The concentration, the co-ingredients and the skin type it was built for decide the outcome. Here are 6 picks  from daily maintenance to clinical-strength  with a dermatologist's guide to what each actually does for Indian skin.