I tossed my expensive vitamin C serum on day one and replaced it with this $22 bottle from Kenya. Fully expected to regret it by week two.
My left cheek has this one stubborn dark spot from a pimple I massacred in March. It’s noticeably lighter now — not gone, but definitely embarrassed.
Ustawi Niacinamide Brightening Serum. $22 for 30ml. They claim it fades hyperpigmentation and smooths texture in 4 weeks — I called bullshit but bought it anyway.
10% Niacinamide
Higher than the standard 5% — actually feels like it’s doing something
Zinc PCA
Controls oil without stripping — my T-zone stayed matte until 3pm
No Fragrance
Smells like nothing. Thank god. My nose hates “fresh cotton” scents.
Photo: Content Pixie / Unsplash
Short and sweet — 8 ingredients total. No filler nonsense. The niacinamide is listed second, which means it’s actually in there, not just for marketing.
- Niacinamide (10%): Shrinks pores and fades spots without irritation
- Zinc PCA: Keeps oil in check — less shiny by lunch
- Glycerin: Hydration without the sticky feeling
- Aloe Vera: Calms the redness my skin loves to throw at me
Photo: Alexandra Tran / Unsplash
Watery gel. Absorbs in 8 seconds flat — I counted. No pilling under sunscreen, which is rare for a 10% formula.
Week 2 I broke out slightly on my chin. Almost quit. But by week 3 those bumps flattened and my pores looked… smaller? Didn’t expect that.
Dark spots faded maybe 40%. Texture improved more than I expected — jawline bumps I’ve had for years are finally flat. Still need concealer for the darkest spots though.
Already ordered a second bottle. My vitamin C is still collecting dust in the back of my drawer.