10%

Niacinamide

Spot Correcting Serum

Not quite — Niacinamide does work, but with some limitations when used alone.

It’s a clinically backed ingredient that:

- Reduces excess oil and redness
- Improves skin barrier function
- Minimizes the appearance of pores
- Gently fades mild pigmentation

However, when used as a standalone, it may not be enough to target stubborn dark spots, post-acne marks, or deeper pigmentation — especially for Indian skin tones prone to PIH (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation).

That’s why the /PHD/ 10% Niacinamide Spot Correcting Serum is designed with complementary actives:

2% NAG – Speeds up cell turnover and boosts niacinamide’s performance
Arbutin – Inhibits melanin production for more targeted brightening
Tripeptide-1 – Helps rebuild damaged skin from past breakout

Yes, a slight change in colour over time can be completely normal, especially for serums that contain active ingredients. Exposure to light, air, or temperature fluctuations can cause natural shifts — but this doesn’t impact the safety or efficacy of the product. At /PHD/, we rigorously stability-test every formulation to ensure it performs as intended, even with these minor changes.

Yes, it's completely normal — and it’s not a sign of a faulty product or irritation.

The foaming you may notice while rubbing in the serum happens because of a combination of humectants and light-textured ingredients in the formula. This serum contains hydrating agents like Butylene Glycol, Propanediol, Pentylene Glycol, and Sodium PCA — these are designed to attract water and help the product spread easily across your skin.

When you apply the serum to damp skin or rub it in quickly, these ingredients can trap tiny air bubbles, creating a light foam or lather effect. It’s especially common in water-based serums with high niacinamide concentrations (like 10%).

/PHD/ Council Tip: To reduce foaming, apply 2–3 drops and gently pat the serum into your skin rather than rubbing it in vigorously. You’ll still get all the benefits — without the bubbles.

It’s possible you're experiencing purging, which is common when starting actives like Niacinamide, Retinol, Salicylic Acid or Vitamin C. This happens as the product speeds up cell turnover, bringing clogged pores to the surface usually in areas where you already get breakouts.

Purging typically lasts 2–4 weeks and then improves.
If breakouts appear in new areas or persist beyond 4–6 weeks, it may be irritation instead.

To support your skin:
– Keep the rest of your routine gentle
– Don’t introduce other new actives
– Use hydrating moisturizer and sunscreen

We’re here if you’d like help adjusting your routine!