A thoughtfully formulated sleeping mask that leverages 10% niacinamide's full pore-refining potential by pairing it with a soothing complex of panthenol, beta-glucan, and bisabolol for overnight wear. The clean, silicone-free formula delivers visible results within a week, though the premium price asks you to pay for the Farmacy philosophy alongside the actives.
10% Niacinamide Night Mask
A thoughtfully formulated sleeping mask that leverages 10% niacinamide's full pore-refining potential by pairing it with a soothing complex of panthenol, beta-glucan, and bisabolol for overnight wear. The clean, silicone-free formula delivers visible results within a week, though the premium price asks you to pay for the Farmacy philosophy alongside the actives.
Score Breakdown
A well-formulated sleeping mask with a high but clinically validated niacinamide concentration supported by excellent soothing and barrier-repair ingredients. The silicone-free, fragrance-free formula is clean and modern. Slightly docked on value given the $45 price point for a 50ml sleeping mask.
Data Confidence: medium
This product has been available for approximately 3-4 years with strong ratings (4.9/5 on Ulta with 600+ reviews) and clinical testing data. Our scoring reflects both real-world user feedback and ingredient analysis.
0/100
Overall Score
Ingredient Quality 0
Value for Money 0
Suitability Breadth 0
Irritation Risk (↑ = safer) 0
Assessment
Pros
- 10% niacinamide delivers maximum pore-refining and sebum-regulating efficacy
- Panthenol (3%), beta-glucan, and bisabolol create a soothing buffer for overnight wear
- Silicone-free, fragrance-free, vegan formula with clean ingredient profile
- Cushiony texture absorbs well without pillow transfer
- Clinical testing shows 94% improvement in skin tone clarity after 30 days
- Replaces both niacinamide treatment and night cream in one step
- Upcycled blueberry seed oil adds sustainability credentials with real antioxidant benefits
Cons
- 10% niacinamide may cause tingling or flushing in sensitive skin types
- Premium $45 price for a niacinamide product — the active itself is inexpensive
- Jar packaging is less hygienic than a tube for an overnight leave-on product
- Contains jojoba oil and shea butter — not fungal-acne-safe
- Botanical extracts like ginger and turmeric may irritate very reactive skin
Full Review
Most niacinamide products play it safe at 5%. That concentration has solid clinical backing, minimal irritation risk, and enough efficacy to satisfy most skin concerns. Farmacy looked at 5% and said, essentially, 'we can do more.' The result is a sleeping mask with 10% niacinamide — double the standard — designed to work while you sleep and deliver visible pore refinement by the time your alarm goes off.
The audacity of this approach is tempered by intelligence. Farmacy did not simply crank up the niacinamide and hope for the best. The formula is built with a deliberate support system: 3% panthenol to replenish the moisture barrier, beta-glucan to soothe inflammation, bisabolol for anti-irritant coverage, and allantoin to promote skin healing. These are not decorative inclusions. They exist because 10% niacinamide, worn overnight, can cause tingling, redness, and flushing in some users — and Farmacy engineered the formula to mitigate that risk without reducing the active dose.
The texture is the first thing you notice. It is thick, cushiony, and distinctly luxurious — a departure from the thin, watery serums that most niacinamide products default to. You scoop it from the glass jar with the included spatula and apply it like a rich night cream. It sinks in faster than its density suggests, leaving behind a velvety layer that does not transfer to pillowcases. By morning, your skin feels like it has been quietly optimized — smoother, more hydrated, and visibly less congested.
Results come quickly. Within the first week, pores look genuinely more refined, particularly around the nose and cheeks. The niacinamide's sebum-regulating effect is apparent — skin that was producing excess oil by midday stays balanced longer. By the end of the first month, skin tone clarity improves measurably, which Farmacy's clinical testing puts at 94% of subjects showing significant improvement. These are bold numbers, but they align with user reports and the known efficacy of niacinamide at this concentration.
The ingredient philosophy reflects Farmacy's clean beauty positioning without the fear-mongering that often accompanies it. The formula is silicone-free, fragrance-free, paraben-free, and vegan. The upcycled blueberry seed oil is a nice touch — rich in anthocyanin antioxidants and omega fatty acids, sourced from what would otherwise be agricultural waste. The Lactobacillus ferment adds a prebiotic dimension that supports the skin microbiome during overnight repair. The botanical extracts — turmeric, ginger, basil, neem — bring anti-inflammatory properties, though some of these (particularly ginger and turmeric) carry their own irritation potential for very reactive skin types.
The overnight format is what elevates this beyond a standard niacinamide serum. Extended contact time means the niacinamide has hours to work on pore structure, sebum regulation, and barrier ceramide synthesis rather than the minutes a rinse-off mask provides. The occlusive shea butter and jojoba oil lock everything in, creating an environment where transepidermal water loss drops to near zero while the actives do their work. It is a fundamentally different delivery mechanism than applying a niacinamide serum and hoping it stays active through the night.
The honest limitations are worth addressing. At $45 for 50ml, this is a premium sleeping mask. Niacinamide is an inexpensive active — you can find 10% niacinamide serums at a fraction of this price. What you are paying for is the formulation engineering: the soothing complex, the overnight vehicle, the texture, the clean ingredient profile, and the recycled glass packaging. Whether that formulation premium is worth it depends on whether you have tried cheaper niacinamide products and found them irritating at 10%, insufficient at 5%, or simply unpleasant to wear overnight.
The jar format, despite the included spatula, remains a hygiene concern for a product you are leaving on your face for eight hours. A tube would be preferable. And while the formula is designed for broad skin-type compatibility, the jojoba oil and shea butter make it less than ideal for fungal acne, and the 10% concentration can still cause flushing in genuinely sensitive skin despite the soothing support.
Farmacy has built a product that takes niacinamide seriously — not as a trendy ingredient to sprinkle into a formula for marketing purposes, but as a potent active that deserves proper formulation support when used at clinical concentrations. The result is a sleeping mask that earns its place in a pore-conscious nighttime routine.
Formula
Ingredients
The hero actives that drive this product's performance.
| Ingredient | Function | Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Niacinamide (10%) | At 10% concentration — the upper end of what clinical studies have tested — niacinamide works overnight to regulate sebum, reduce pore appearance, and improve skin tone clarity. In this leave-on mask format, the extended contact time maximizes its barrier-strengthening effect by boosting ceramide synthesis while you sleep. | well-established |
| Panthenol (3%) | At 3% concentration, panthenol functions as both a humectant and a skin-calming agent, buffering the potential irritation from the high-dose niacinamide. It replenishes the moisture barrier overnight and helps prevent the tightness that potent actives can cause during extended wear. | well-established |
| Beta-Glucan | A polysaccharide that soothes inflammation and stimulates the skin's innate immune response. In this mask, it acts as the calming counterweight to the 10% niacinamide, helping prevent the redness and irritation that some users experience with high-concentration niacinamide overnight. | promising |
| Blueberry Seed Oil (Upcycled) | An upcycled botanical oil rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and anthocyanin antioxidants. Provides overnight antioxidant protection and lipid replenishment, adding a nourishing dimension that complements the niacinamide's tone-correcting work. | limited |
| Shea Butter | Supplies occlusive fatty acids that seal in the mask's humectants and actives during overnight wear. Its presence ensures the lightweight mask format still delivers lasting moisture, preventing the dehydration that can occur with extended niacinamide contact. | well-established |
Full INCI List
Water/Aqua/Eau, Propanediol, Niacinamide, C15-19 Alkane, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Panthenol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Cetearyl Olivate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sorbitan Olivate, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Betaine, Vaccinium Corymbosum (Blueberry) Seed Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate, Beta-Glucan, Bisabolol, Allantoin, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Glycogen, Coccinia Indica Fruit Extract, Lactobacillus Ferment, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Solanum Melongena (Eggplant) Fruit Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Flower Extract, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) Flower/Leaf Extract, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Maltodextrin, Arginine, Carbomer, Pentylene Glycol, Sodium Phytate, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Caprylyl Glycol
Product Flags
✓ Fragrance Free✓ Alcohol Free✗ Oil Free✓ Silicone Free✓ Paraben Free✓ Sulfate Free✓ Cruelty Free✓ Vegan✗ Fungal Acne Safe
Comedogenic Ingredients
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed OilButyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Potential Irritants
Niacinamide at 10%Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root ExtractCurcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract
Compatibility
Skin Match
Best For
Works For
Not Ideal For
Addresses These Conditions
large pores dullness texture oiliness hyperpigmentation dehydration
Use With Caution
Routine Step
moisturizer
Time of Day
PM
Pregnancy Safe
Yes ✓
Layering Tips
Apply as the final step in your PM routine, after cleansing and any treatment serums. Use in place of your regular night cream. The mask is designed to be left on overnight and rinsed off in the morning. If using retinol, apply retinol first and let it absorb for 10-15 minutes before applying this mask on top.
Results Timeline
Skin feels hydrated and smooth immediately upon waking after first use. Pore refinement and improved texture become noticeable within 1-2 weeks. Clinical studies show significant improvement in skin tone clarity after 30 days of consistent use.
Pairs Well With
retinolhyaluronic acid serumsvitamin C serums (AM)gentle cleansers
Sample AM Routine
- Gentle cleanser (rinse off mask)
- Vitamin C serum
- Lightweight moisturizer
- SPF 30+ sunscreen
Sample PM Routine
- Double cleanse
- Treatment serum (retinol or exfoliant if using)
- THIS PRODUCT (in place of night cream)
Evidence
Science
The Science
Niacinamide at 10% concentration operates at the upper range of what has been clinically validated. A pivotal 2004 study in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science demonstrated that 2% niacinamide significantly reduced sebum excretion rate, while studies at 4-5% showed improvements in hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and skin elasticity. At 10%, the benefits extend to more pronounced pore refinement and faster results, though irritation risk increases proportionally — which this formula addresses through its soothing complex.
The mechanism behind niacinamide's pore-refining effect involves its ability to increase ceramide and fatty acid synthesis in the stratum corneum, strengthening the barrier around individual pores. Research published in the British Journal of Dermatology (2000) confirmed that niacinamide boosts ceramide production in a dose-dependent manner. At 10%, the ceramide synthesis stimulation is maximized, leading to tighter pore structure and reduced sebum flow.
Panthenol at 3% complements this by acting as both a humectant (drawing moisture into the stratum corneum) and a skin protectant. A study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2002) found that panthenol accelerated barrier repair and reduced transepidermal water loss — directly relevant in a formula where niacinamide's barrier-strengthening effect might be offset by its irritation potential at high doses.
Beta-glucan, derived from yeast cell walls, has demonstrated immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties. Research in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science has shown that beta-glucan reduces the depth of fine wrinkles while improving skin firmness, adding an anti-aging dimension to this mask that extends beyond niacinamide's primary effects. Its soothing properties are particularly valuable in an overnight format where the active sits on skin for 6-8 hours.
References
- The effect of niacinamide on reducing cutaneous pigmentation and suppression of melanosome transfer — British Journal of Dermatology (2002)
- Niacinamide: A B vitamin that improves aging facial skin appearance — Dermatologic Surgery (2005)
Dermatologist Perspective
Dermatologists recognize niacinamide as one of the most versatile and well-tolerated topical actives, effective for acne, hyperpigmentation, barrier repair, and anti-aging. Board-certified dermatologists note that 10% is at the higher end of the therapeutic range and may cause transient flushing in some patients, but the soothing support system in this formula (panthenol, beta-glucan, bisabolol) is well-designed to mitigate that risk. The overnight sleeping mask format is dermatologically sound — extended contact time with niacinamide has been shown to enhance ceramide synthesis and pore refinement. Dermatologists would particularly recommend this for patients with combination to oily skin who want pore and texture improvement without retinoid-level irritation risk.
Guidance
Usage Guide
How to Use
After cleansing and applying any treatment serums, scoop a generous amount with the included spatula and apply evenly across the face and neck. Leave on overnight — the mask absorbs into the skin and does not require rinsing, though you can wash it off in the morning if preferred. Use nightly for best results. If experiencing tingling during the first few applications, start with every other night and build up. Avoid applying directly over fresh retinol — wait 10-15 minutes for retinol to absorb first.
Value Assessment
At $45 for 50ml, this mask is positioned at the prestige end of the niacinamide market. Standalone 10% niacinamide serums exist for $7-12, making the Farmacy version a significant premium. However, this product serves as both a niacinamide treatment and a night cream, potentially replacing two products. The formulation engineering — soothing complex, overnight vehicle, silicone-free texture — justifies some of the markup for users who have struggled with niacinamide irritation at 10% in simpler formulations. Mini sizes (9-25ml) are available for trial before committing to the full size.
Who Should Buy
Oily and combination skin types who want serious pore refinement and sebum regulation without the irritation risk of retinoids. Ideal for anyone who has found 5% niacinamide products underwhelming and wants a higher concentration in a comfortable, soothing overnight vehicle.
Who Should Skip
Very sensitive skin that flushes easily — even with the soothing complex, 10% niacinamide may cause discomfort during extended overnight wear. Also skip if you are managing fungal acne, as the jojoba oil and shea butter may feed Malassezia yeast.
Ready to try Farmacy 10% Niacinamide Night Mask?
Details
Details
Texture
Thick, cushion-like cream with a silky consistency. Feels luxurious on application and absorbs into the skin without leaving a greasy or sticky layer.
Scent
Very faint, pleasant natural scent from botanical extracts — essentially unscented
Packaging
Infinitely recyclable glass jar with a branded spatula for hygienic dispensing. The glass feels premium and aligns with Farmacy's sustainability commitment.
Finish
satinnon-greasyvelvety
What to Expect on First Use
First application feels rich and cushioning — the mask sits comfortably on skin without slipping or transferring to pillowcases. By morning, skin feels noticeably hydrated and smooth. Some users with sensitive skin may notice mild tingling from the 10% niacinamide concentration during the first few uses, which typically subsides with continued use.
How Long It Lasts
2-3 months with nightly use
Period After Opening
12 months
Best Season
All Year
Certifications
VeganCruelty-FreeDermatologist TestedGluten-Free
Background
The Why
Farmacy developed this mask to address the gap between standalone niacinamide serums — which often lack the occlusive and soothing support needed for overnight wear — and traditional night creams that hydrate but do not actively treat pore and texture concerns. The 10% concentration was chosen based on clinical studies showing this level delivers measurable results in skin tone clarity and pore refinement, while the soothing complex ensures tolerance across skin types.
About Farmacy Emerging Brand (2–5 years)
Farmacy was founded in 2015 by David Chung and acquired by Procter & Gamble in 2021. The brand built its reputation on a 'farm-to-face' philosophy with sustainably sourced botanicals. Its Green Clean balm became the #1 selling cleanser at Sephora. While formulations use well-studied ingredients, the brand is still relatively young with limited independent clinical validation of its specific products.
Brand founded: 2015 · Product launched: 2022
Myth vs. Reality
Myths
Myth
Niacinamide above 5% is unnecessary and just causes irritation.
Reality
While 5% is effective for many concerns, clinical studies have demonstrated additional benefits at 10% — particularly for sebum regulation and pore refinement. This mask buffers the higher concentration with panthenol and beta-glucan to maintain tolerability.
Myth
Sleeping masks are just thick moisturizers with a marketing spin.
Reality
The extended overnight contact time of a sleeping mask allows actives like niacinamide to work longer than a wash-off mask. This format is particularly effective for ingredients that benefit from sustained penetration, and the occlusive layer prevents transepidermal water loss during sleep.
FAQ
FAQ
Can I use the Farmacy Niacinamide Night Mask every night?
Yes — it is designed for nightly use as a leave-on overnight treatment. If you experience tingling during the first few uses due to the 10% niacinamide concentration, start with every other night and build up to nightly use as your skin adjusts.
Can I use the Farmacy Night Mask with retinol?
Yes. Apply your retinol first and let it absorb for 10-15 minutes, then layer this mask on top. The 3% panthenol and beta-glucan in the mask actually help buffer retinol irritation, making them a complementary pairing for anti-aging and pore refinement.
Will 10% niacinamide irritate sensitive skin?
Some users with sensitive skin report mild tingling at 10% concentration. The formula includes panthenol, beta-glucan, bisabolol, and allantoin specifically to counteract irritation. Start with every other night to test tolerance. Clinical testing showed improvement across all skin types, including sensitive.
Does the Farmacy Night Mask help with acne?
Niacinamide at 10% helps regulate sebum production and reduces pore congestion, which can indirectly reduce breakouts. However, the formula contains jojoba seed oil and shea butter which are mildly comedogenic, so acne-prone users should patch test first.
Is the Farmacy Niacinamide Night Mask worth the price?
At $45 for 50ml, it is pricier than standalone niacinamide serums. However, it replaces both your niacinamide treatment and your night cream, and the leave-on format maximizes efficacy. The clinical data showing 94% improvement in skin clarity after 30 days supports the investment for users who prioritize pore refinement and tone.
Community
Community
Common Praise
"Skin looks visibly brighter and more refined by morning"
"Thick cushiony texture absorbs without greasy residue"
"Noticeable pore minimization within the first week"
"Non-pilling formula layers well over treatment serums"
"Silicone-free and clean ingredient list"
Common Complaints
"10% niacinamide can cause tingling or redness in sensitive skin"
"Price is high compared to standalone niacinamide products"
"Jar packaging is less hygienic than a tube despite included spatula"
"May feel too rich for very oily skin in humid climates"
Appears In
best mask for oily skin best niacinamide product best sleeping mask best mask for large pores best mask for dullness
Related Conditions
large pores oiliness dullness texture hyperpigmentation
Related Ingredients
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