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Quick verdict
ANUA’s Niacinamide 10% + TXA 4% Serum is a high-strength, fragrance-free K-Beauty serum built to brighten, refine pores and calm tone — it pairs a potent 10% niacinamide with 4% tranexamic acid (plus ceramides and hyaluronic acids) to tackle dullness, post-blemish pigmentation and texture while still being formulated to soothe the barrier. It’s a great pick if you want a science-forward brightening serum that plays nicely in a layered routine — but patch-test first if your skin is highly reactive.
Key Specs
Key actives: Niacinamide 10%, Tranexamic Acid (TXA) 4%, Arbutin ~2% (brightening trio).
Support actives: Ceramides, hyaluronic acid (sodium hyaluronate), soothing botanicals.
Texture / finish: Lightweight, fast-absorbing serum — minimal tack, easily layers under moisturizer and SPF.
Scent / formula: Fragrance-free (suitable for scent-sensitive users).
Usage: AM/PM (use sunscreen during daytime for brightening actives).
Why you might buy it
- Targeted brightening + pore refining: 10% niacinamide is known to improve texture, regulate sebum and reduce pore appearance, while tranexamic acid (4%) helps reduce stubborn pigment and melasma-type discoloration. Together they address tone and texture more comprehensively than a single-ingredient serum.
- Barrier-friendly formulation: ANUA pairs the actives with ceramides and hyaluronic acid to hydrate and protect, reducing the risk of over-drying that some high-strength brighteners bring.
- Fragrance-free & cosmetically elegant: Lightweight, no-fragrance texture that layers well under SPF and makeup — practical for daily use.
Pros
- High-strength active dosing (10% niacinamide + 4% TXA) for visible brightening and pore improvement.
- Fragrance-free and supported with hydrating/repairing ingredients (ceramides, hyaluronic acids).
- Lightweight texture absorbs quickly and layers well in routines.
- Good price relative to clinical-strength formulations (ANUA often priced competitively).
Cons
- Potent concentrations can irritate very sensitive skin — stagger introduction and patch test first.
- Niacinamide at 10% is above typical 2–5% starter levels; some users report flushing/tingle when they first try high concentrations.
- If you already use multiple strong actives (high % vitamin C, AHAs, retinoids), layering requires care to avoid irritation.
Performance & real-world use
In real-world testing and user reviews, ANUA’s formula delivers noticeable improvements in brightness and pore texture within 4–8 weeks for many users when used consistently and paired with diligent sun protection. The serum’s lightweight feel and hydrating support ingredients make it easy to add to both morning and evening routines. Dermatologists and content creators highlight the potency — they appreciate the brightening performance but consistently advise introducing the serum gradually to monitor tolerance.
Comparison
- vs The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%: The Ordinary focuses on sebum control and basic niacinamide dosing; ANUA adds tranexamic acid and barrier-supporting humectants/ceramides for stronger brightening + hydration.
- vs INKEY List Tranexamic Acid (2%): INKEY’s TXA is lower % and formulated as a gentle spot/fade serum; ANUA’s combined 10% niacinamide + 4% TXA is a broader multitasker for overall tone and texture.
- vs higher-end clinical serums: ANUA provides clinical-style actives at a more accessible price, though some prescription or in-office treatments will outperform topical serums for severe melasma.
Who is this best for?
- People with dullness, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, enlarged pores or uneven tone.
- Users who want a science-forward K-Beauty serum that layers under SPF.
- Those comfortable introducing higher-strength topical actives and willing to patch test/phase in.
Short buying checklist
- Patch test on inner forearm for 48 hours before facial use.
- Start slowly (every other night → nightly) to build tolerance.
- Use daily sunscreen — brightening actives need UV protection to prevent recurrence of pigmentation.
- Check interactions: be cautious layering with high-dose vitamin C or strong acids initially.
Key Specs
Key actives: Niacinamide 10%, Tranexamic Acid (TXA) 4%, Arbutin ~2% (brightening trio).
Support actives: Ceramides, hyaluronic acid (sodium hyaluronate), soothing botanicals.
Texture / finish: Lightweight, fast-absorbing serum — minimal tack, easily layers under moisturizer and SPF.
Scent / formula: Fragrance-free (suitable for scent-sensitive users).
Usage: AM/PM (use sunscreen during daytime for brightening actives).
Safety, Maintenance & Buying Tips
- Avoid simultaneous use with unbuffered strong acids at first; alternate nights if combining with AHAs/BHAs.
- If using tretinoin/retinoids, apply ANUA on alternate nights or use the moisturizer-buffer method to reduce irritation.
- Store in a cool, dry place; keep cap closed to maintain stability.
FAQs
Final verdict
ANUA’s Niacinamide 10% + TXA 4% Serum is a strong, thoughtfully formulated over-the-counter brightening serum that combines proven actives for tone, pore refinement and barrier support. It offers clinical-grade performance at a reasonable price and fits well into modern K-Beauty routines — just introduce it carefully if you have sensitive skin and always pair it with sunscreen. For many users chasing glass-skin brightness and smoother texture, this serum is a highly effective, daily-use solution in 2025.
