Score computed from verified review sentiment, ingredient efficacy, and cross-platform consistency.
Reviewed by Flash AI Editorial Team · Last updated March 2026.
Effectively reduces acne marks, blemishes, pigmentation, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, with visible results reported within days to two weeks. It also helps to clear blackheads, whiteheads, and unclog pores, leading to smoother and clearer skin texture.
Controls excess oil and sebum, preventing the face from becoming oily and reducing the appearance of pores. This contributes to a matte finish and clearer-looking skin, making it suitable for oily and combination skin types.
Brightens the skin, complexion, and tone, resulting in a glowing and dewy appearance. It also provides a soothing effect, calming inflammation and redness, and helps to lock in moisture for a hydrated feel.
The serum has a lightweight, non-sticky, and fast-absorbing texture that works well under makeup, moisturizer, and sunscreen without feeling tacky or leaving residue. It is also fragrance-free, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
The serum can be sticky and leave a noticeable white powdery residue after drying, which may be undesirable for some users. It is also recommended to use it at night only, potentially due to its texture or ingredients.
The high concentration of 12% Niacinamide can be harsh for sensitive skin or new users, potentially causing irritation, dehydration, or a damaged skin barrier. Some users reported no noticeable difference or fading of acne marks after 14-17 days.
The serum is not effective for fungal or bacterial infections causing acne, and one user reported their skin looked even darker after 10 days of use. Some users consider Foxtale serums a 'no go'.
Flash AI analyzes thousands of reviews across Amazon, Nykaa, YouTube & Reddit, etc. to give you one honest score — and finds you the best price in India.
The Foxtale 12% Niacinamide Clarifying Serum is a gel-form treatment that addresses seven common acne concerns: excess oil, clogged pores, blackheads, bumpy texture, redness, pigmentation, and acne marks. It earns an AI Score of 92/100 on Flash AI, backed by 859 verified reviews across 5 platforms, placing it among the more thoroughly validated serums at this price point. Reviewers consistently report visible improvement in acne marks, blemishes, and skin tone within 14 days of consistent use, with many noting a measurable reduction in oiliness and pore appearance.
At the core of this serum sit two actives: 12% Niacinamide and Azelaic Acid. Niacinamide at this concentration targets excess sebum, pigmentation, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation while supporting the skin barrier. Azelaic Acid complements it by addressing blemishes, redness, and uneven skin tone. Foxtale uses Double Encapsulation Technology, which encloses Niacinamide in two protective layers to aid its delivery across the skin barrier into targeted areas. The gel formula is lightweight, fragrance-free, fast-absorbing, and non-comedogenic, with no parabens, sulphates, or gluten.
This serum suits oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types best. Apply 1-2 pumps to a cleansed face and neck daily, morning and night. People with sensitive skin or a compromised barrier should approach with caution: the 12% Niacinamide concentration is high, and some reviewers reported irritation, dehydration, or increased sensitivity during early use. New users may want to start with once-daily application and increase frequency based on how their skin responds. The serum does not address acne caused by fungal or bacterial infections, and a small number of reviewers reported no visible difference after 14 to 17 days of use.
You will find this serum across 13 sellers, with prices ranging from ₹199 to ₹797 for the 30ml bottle. At ₹199, this delivers strong value for a dual-active serum with a targeted delivery system. At higher price points, compare sellers before you buy. Flash AI rates this 92/100, with near-perfect scores for effectiveness and formula quality. If you deal with oiliness, post-acne marks, or uneven tone, and your skin can tolerate a higher Niacinamide concentration, this serum earns a clear recommendation.
"With a Flash AI Score of 92/100, Foxtale 12% Niacinamide Serum with Azelaic Acid for Oil Control & Brightening (30ml) earns its ranking through demonstrated, cross-platform results."
— Flash AI Editorial TeamFoxtale is an Indian skincare brand that focuses on science-backed formulations with effective active ingredients like niacinamide, delivering visible results at accessible price points. Their range includes targeted serums and daily-wear sunscreens designed for everyday Indian skin concerns. Foxtale products are widely available across major Indian marketplaces including Nykaa, Amazon, Flipkart, Myntra, Meesho, and Purplle.
| Features | 12% Niacinamide Serum with Azelaic Acid | COSRX The 6 Peptide Skin Booster Serum | Minimalist 2 Percent Alpha Arbutin Face | Deconstruct Vitamin C Serum |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Key Actives | 12% Niacinamide, Azelaic Acid | Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide… | Alpha Arbutin, Hyaluronic Acid… | 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Ferulic Acid… |
| Best For | Adults | Adults | Men & Women | All Skin Types |
| Fragrance | — | — | Fragrance Free | Fragrance-Free |
| Price From | ₹199 | ₹1230 | ₹470 | ₹615 |
"If you are struggling with stubborn acne marks or an oily T-zone, this serum is a heavy hitter. It combines two of the best ingredients for skin texture and clarity into one bottle. Dual-Action Formula: The 12% Niacinamide controls excess sebum (oil) and minimizes pores, while the Azelaic Acid specifically targets redness and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (acne scars). Texture: It has a lightweight, milky consistency that absorbs quickly without feeling tacky—a big plus for those with oily or combination skin. Results: With consistent use, it noticeably brightens the complexion and calms active breakouts. It’s particularly effective at "blurring" the look of enlarged pores. What to Watch Out For Potency: 12% Niacinamide is a high concentration. If you have sensitive skin or have never used Niacinamide before, I recommend patch-testing first or using it every other day to avoid irritation. Hydration: While it contains soothing ingredients, it is a treatment serum. Always follow up with a good moisturizer to lock in hydration. Final Verdict An affordable, high-performance serum for anyone looking to achieve "glass skin" clarity. It’s a fantastic choice if your main goals are oil control and fading dark spots."
"I?ve been using the Foxtale Niacinamide Serum for a few weeks and it really helped reduce my acne marks. It has a very mild fragrance and the texture is ..."
"I've been using this for some days now. it controls oils really w..."
Apply 1-2 pumps to a cleansed face and neck, morning and night. The serum suits daily use at both times. Allow it to absorb fully before layering moisturiser and sunscreen on top. If your skin is new to Niacinamide, start with once-daily use and build up gradually.
Yes. The serum directly targets the main concerns of oily and acne-prone skin: excess sebum, clogged pores, blackheads, and enlarged pores. Reviewers with oily skin report a matte finish and noticeably reduced oiliness with regular use. The lightweight, non-comedogenic gel formula also sits well under moisturiser, sunscreen, and makeup.
Double Encapsulation Technology encloses Niacinamide in two protective layers. Foxtale designed this delivery system to transport the active ingredient across the skin barrier into targeted areas, improving how much of it reaches the skin where it is needed. It is a core formulation feature of this serum.
Reviewers report visible improvement in acne marks, blemishes, and skin tone within 14 days of consistent daily use. Oil control and reduced pore appearance often appear earlier. Deeper pigmentation and stubborn acne marks may take longer. Some users reported no noticeable change after 14 to 17 days, so individual results vary.
Use caution. The 12% Niacinamide concentration is high compared to most entry-level serums. Some reviewers with sensitive or reactive skin reported irritation, dehydration, or a weakened skin barrier during initial use. If you have sensitive skin, start with once-daily application and increase frequency only if your skin responds without irritation.
Most standard Niacinamide products use concentrations between 2% and 5%. At 12%, paired with Azelaic Acid, this serum targets a broader range of concerns including deeper pigmentation, stubborn blemishes, and oil control more aggressively. The higher concentration delivers faster results for many users but carries a greater risk of irritation for sensitive or first-time users.
This serum is available from ₹199 across 13 sellers. Prices vary and can go up to ₹797 for the same 30ml bottle depending on the seller and platform. Comparing prices across multiple platforms before purchasing gives you the best chance of securing the lowest rate.
The serum has a lightweight gel texture that absorbs quickly without feeling sticky or tacky for most users. It layers well under moisturiser, sunscreen, and makeup without pilling. A smaller group of reviewers noted a white powdery residue after the serum dried, which can be more noticeable when layering quickly with other products.
The specs do not include specific compatibility data for pairing with retinol, vitamin C, or AHAs. The serum suits both AM and PM use. If you use multiple actives in your routine, introduce this serum on its own first and observe how your skin responds before combining it with other treatments.
The listed active ingredients are 12% Niacinamide and Azelaic Acid. The formula is also free from parabens, sulphates, gluten, and fragrance, and it is non-comedogenic. For the complete ingredient list, refer to the product packaging or the brand's official product page.
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