It’s been a minute since Sunday Riley launched a serum, hasn’t it? Having perfected iconic formulas such as Luna and Good Genes, the mindfully expanding collection just welcomed a brand new brightening treatment– the B3 Nice 10% Niacinamide Serum. As a fan of Niacinamide, I was very excited to try the newness before its launch, and after a few weeks of daily use I am back with a scoop!
What is Sunday Riley B3 Nice?
B3 Nice is a lightweight, water-based serum formulated to brighten the skin tone, reduce the appearance of enlarged pores, and prevent free radical damage and inflammation. All without triggering any unpleasantries for those with sensitive skin or skin prone to redness. And speaking of– while technically suitable for all skin types, in my non-professional opinion, it will work best for those with normal/combination or skin leaning toward oily. There is a beautiful purple hue to the formula and absolutely no scent that I can detect.
What’s in Sunday Riley B3?
The latest from Sunday Riley is powered by 10% Niacinamide, a water-soluble form of Vitamin B3 that has grown in popularity over the past decade. It has actually become the new essential. Proven to minimize redness, protect the moisture barrier, and help with hyperpigmentation, this gentle yet effective compound is safe to use twice daily. It also plays well with other key ingredients in your skincare routine.
Another intriguing addition to the ingredient list is Brightenly, which appears on the INCI as Diglucosyl Gallic Acid. This biotechnologically created molecule is activated by the skin’s microbiome. After partially converting into a melanin producing enzyme, it has the ability to even out and brighten dull, ruddy complexions.
Sunday Riley also includes Trans-Resveratrol, the purest and most active form of fruit-derived polyphenol to ensure B3’s brightening powers with every application. An antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties, it soothes, improves elasticity, and protects skin barrier function. Completing the deck are EGCG (a superb green tea derived antioxidant), Red Algae, Pomegranate Fruit, Calendula, Holy Basil, and Turmeric Extracts. Nicely done!
How and when to use Sunday Riley Niacinamide?
The versatility of B3 Nice is also quite impressive. If you’re a faithful Good Genes or A+ Retinoid Serum user, apply this new Niacinamide treatment before either of them. You will notice that the lightweight texture absorbs pretty quickly and allows for layering your richer, creamier formulas without risking any product pilling. Personally, I have been using it over my Vitamin C serum in the morning and in the evening on non-prescription-retinoid nights.
Final thoughts of Sunday Riley B3 Nice.
In short, I like the new Sunday Riley Niacinamide serum a lot. It’s beautifully formulated, slotted into my routine like a dream, and I do think my skin is looking noticeably brighter. It may have resulted from the cumulative effect of my post-summer self-care efforts but the serum is definitely contributing to the visible results. Those who have been feeling left out of the skin-brightening game because of their sensitivity to Vitamin C (it can be a lot to handle for some), I highly recommend your giving this Sunday Riley launch a try. Keep in mind that a single application won’t perform miracles so be consistent and commit to daily use for a few weeks to enjoy the sought after radiance.
But also…
There is one small thing that bothers me– the packaging. The wide neck bottle makes the rather runny serum drip a little when you remove the dropper. I am also worried that one clumsy arm gesture may result in the product spilling. That’s probably me being detail-obsessed.
$65 (30ml) at sephora.com (exclusively on the Sephora at the time of posting, December 19th)
