Medik8 niacinamide serum leaves skin ‘more refreshed’

January can often be the start of a ‘new year, new me’ mentality and if you’re keen to upgrade your skincare routine then it’s worth addressing what your current concerns are. If you haven’t heard of it before, niacinamide is multi-purpose item that is designed to tackle a host of issues. It can strengthen the skin’s barrier, boost hydration, regulate oil production, minimise pores, reduces redness and inflammation, fade dark spots, and smooth fine lines.

With so many products on the market, it can be hard to figure out what to try. Medik8 has built a loyal following, and the brand has started the year with a new launch aimed at tackling congestion, visible pores, and uneven skin texture.

The latest addition, Niacinamide Peptides, centres around a 10% niacinamide blend and the brand says it is ideal for those with blemish-prone or congested skin. The serum is priced at £49 for a 30ml bottle, although first-time customers can currently get 15% off, reducing the cost to £41.65. Medik8 estimates each bottle provides around 80 applications, with advice to use it once or twice daily after cleansing and before applying other formulas, reports the Mirror.

As with most active skincare, results depend on skin type and concerns. Scott McGlynn, author and host of Celebrity Skin Talk podcast spoke exclusively to the Daily Express to explain more. Scott says: “Niacinamide is one of those ingredients I always describe as a quiet overachiever. It works across multiple skin concerns at once, and one of its biggest benefits is its ability to strengthen the skin barrier, which helps reduce moisture loss that’s key for anyone dealing with dryness or sensitivity. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, so it can help calm redness, irritation, and blotchiness.”

Alongside niacinamide, the formula contains peptides, which are commonly used to support skin texture and overall resilience. There’s also N-acetyl glucosamine (NAG), a gentle exfoliating ingredient that helps clear dead skin from the surface, plus zinc to help control excess oil. Hyaluronic acid is included to keep skin hydrated and comfortable.

Medik8 says the serum was tested in a four-week independent study involving 30 participants. The results suggested visible redness was reduced after just seven days, with further improvements seen after a month of regular use. Separate consumer trials reported a reduction in the appearance of pores and fewer visible blemishes after four weeks.

The launch replaces the brand’s earlier Clarity Peptides serum, which had a dedicated fanbase. Of its replacement, one person shared: “I used the sample to the last drop. I could definitely see results on the appearance of my pores.”

Another person added: “The texture is lightweight and absorbs beautifully into the skin. After using it, my skin looked clearer and more refreshed. It’s gentle but effective, and I’ll definitely keep using it.”

Reading through the reviews on the website there do not seem to any major concerns about the new product, with the only gripe customers having is that they haven’t noticed results based on the short time they’ve been using it. One user did express concern that 10% concentrate might be too strong. 

Scott told us: “When it comes to potency, people need to be mindful. A 10% niacinamide formula is considered high-strength and can be very effective, particularly for concerns such as visible redness, enlarged pores, and uneven texture. However, higher doesn’t always mean better. For sensitive or compromised skin types 10% can cause tingling, flushing, or irritation.”

Scott recommends easing yourself in if you’re new to the nutrient. “My advice is always to introduce higher-potency niacinamide slowly, use it on well-hydrated skin, and avoid pairing it immediately with other strong actives like exfoliating acids or retinoids. It’s also worth patch testing first.”