Review COSRX 15% Niacinamide Face Serum
- Cotton Sky Lab
- Nov 2, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Nov 13, 2025

Unboxing Review: COSRX 15% Niacinamide Face Serum 👉 Shop on Amazon
Introduction: My Experience with High-Strength Niacinamide
Niacinamide is one of those ingredients that everyone talks about, but few products truly get right. I’ve tried my fair share — from gentle 5% formulas that barely made a difference to overly strong ones that left my skin irritated. When COSRX released The Niacinamide 15 Serum, promising visible results without compromising skin comfort, I knew it was time to put it to the test.
At the time, my skin was dealing with post-acne marks, mild redness, and excess oil around my T-zone. I wanted something that could smooth texture, minimize pores, and brighten dull areas — all without the heavy feel of traditional serums.
In this review, I’ll walk through the unboxing, texture, short- and long-term results, comparisons with other niacinamide serums, and whether this potent formula deserves its place in your skincare lineup.
Product Overview: What Is the COSRX The Niacinamide 15 Serum?
This serum is designed for those ready to take their niacinamide game up a notch. COSRX The Niacinamide 15 Serum is a targeted treatment that combines a 15% concentration of niacinamide with calming and balancing ingredients to refine texture, brighten dark spots, and regulate sebum.
✨ Key Features and Ingredients
15% Niacinamide – Brightens skin, fades dark spots, and balances oil.
Zinc PCA – Controls excess sebum and helps prevent breakouts.
Acetyl Glucosamine (NAG) – Enhances niacinamide’s brightening effect.
Allantoin & Panthenol – Calm sensitivity and support skin barrier recovery.
The packaging is minimal and clinical — true to COSRX’s aesthetic. A small, sturdy bottle with a pump makes dosing easy and hygienic. The serum itself is clear, lightweight, and non-sticky, designed to absorb quickly without residue.
COSRX describes it as safe for daily use — morning or night — but recommends starting slowly if you’re new to higher-strength actives.
My Personal Experience & Results
First Impressions
The first thing I noticed was how clean the design felt — simple, practical, and focused on the formula rather than flashy packaging. The texture immediately impressed me: fluid like a lightweight essence but with a silky slip that made application feel luxurious.
Texture & Scent
The serum spreads easily, absorbs in seconds, and leaves no sticky layer behind. There’s no strong fragrance — just a faint cosmetic scent that disappears almost instantly. Sensitive-skin users will appreciate how neutral it feels.
Application & Feel
I used one pump for my entire face, morning and night, followed by a moisturizer. It layered well with sunscreen and makeup — no pilling, no heaviness. Within days, I noticed my T-zone looked less shiny by midday and my overall tone more balanced.
Short-Term Results
After the first week, small improvements became noticeable: pores appeared slightly tighter, redness around old blemishes faded, and my skin texture felt smoother. It gave that “polished” look you get when your barrier is balanced and happy.
Long-Term Results
By the third week, post-acne marks were visibly lighter and my skin tone more even. My complexion looked cleaner and brighter overall, without any dryness or irritation. The results were gradual but consistent — a steady improvement that made my skin look refined and calm.
What I Loved
✅ Potent yet gentle formulation
✅ Lightweight texture, layers easily under makeup
✅ Helps even tone and reduce shine
✅ Non-sticky and fragrance-light
Who Should Buy This Product
This serum is designed for anyone who wants visible results from a high-strength active without the harsh side effects.
Best For:
Combination or oily skin
Post-acne marks or hyperpigmentation
Uneven texture and visible pores
Those who prefer a fragrance-free, fast-absorbing formula
With regular use, it delivers clarity, balance, and smoother texture — making it a reliable choice for both everyday maintenance and targeted brightening.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
After testing the COSRX The Niacinamide 15 Serum, I can confidently say it’s one of the most balanced high-strength niacinamide serums on the market. It offers visible improvements in brightness, oil control, and texture — all without the dryness or irritation often associated with potent actives.
This serum fits seamlessly into both simple and advanced routines. Whether you’re targeting post-blemish marks or aiming for overall clarity, it delivers consistent, realistic results.
Would I repurchase it? Absolutely.It’s now my go-to niacinamide for when I want strong results in a gentle, fast-absorbing form.
Ready to level up your glow game? 👉 Explore all COSRX products on Amazon
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