TIAM

Vita B3 Source

For dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone.

The cult dark-spot serum TIAM is best known for — and one of the most-recommended K-beauty brightening products of the last decade. The formula does something rare in the brightening category: it combines two of the most clinically-validated brightening actives at their proper working concentrations, in a single bottle. The hero is 10% niacinamide (a clinical-grade concentration — most niacinamide serums on the market sit at 4–5%) paired with 2% alpha-arbutin (a gentler, plant-derived brightener that targets the enzyme responsible for melanin production). That combination is the gold-standard pairing dermatologists recommend for pigmentation, in one fragrance-free formula.

Around the brightening duo, the formula leans on Korean botanicals — lindera root, cornus officinalis fruit, and geranium thunbergii — for antioxidant support, plus dipotassium glycyrrhizate (a licorice root derivative) for calming and sodium hyaluronate for hydration. Just 15 ingredients in total, TIAM's signature minimalist approach. The texture is lightweight and watery, absorbs in seconds without any stickiness, and layers cleanly under SPF and makeup. Free from fragrance, alcohol, oils, and common allergens.

Best For: Dark spots, post-acne marks, hyperpigmentation, melasma, and dull, uneven skin tone — also a great pick for anyone wanting clinical-grade brightening actives in a properly minimalist, no-frills formula. Suitable for most skin types including sensitive.

Key Ingredients
Niacinamide (10%): A clinical-grade concentration of vitamin B3 that brightens, evens out tone, fades dark spots, refines pores, and strengthens the skin barrier. Alpha-Arbutin (2%): A plant-derived brightener that gently inhibits the enzyme responsible for melanin production — particularly effective on stubborn pigmentation and post-acne marks. Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate (Licorice Root Derivative): A targeted anti-inflammatory active that calms reactive skin and adds another brightening pathway alongside the niacinamide and arbutin. Lindera Root, Cornus Officinalis & Geranium Thunbergii Extracts: A trio of Korean botanical extracts that deliver antioxidant support and protect against environmental stress. Sodium Hyaluronate & Allantoin: A hydrating-and-soothing pair that offsets any potential dryness from the high niacinamide concentration and keeps the formula gentle on sensitive skin.
How to Use
After cleansing and toning, dispense 2–3 drops onto your fingertips and pat gently across your face — focus on areas with dark spots, pigmentation, or uneven tone. Follow with moisturiser, and SPF in the morning (essential — brightening actives plus UV exposure cancels out the work). Use morning and evening. Patch test before first use, and consider starting every other day for the first week if you're new to high-concentration niacinamide. Tip: SPF isn't optional with this serum — it's the second half of the product. Brightening actives constantly work to fade pigment, but UV exposure constantly makes more, and skipping sunscreen undoes the work in real time. This is the most common reason people see no results from brightening serums after months of use. Apply SPF religiously, and you'll start to see visible fading within 4–6 weeks.
Full Ingredients

Water, Niacinamide (10%), Butylene Glycol, Arbutin (2%), Allantoin, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Lindera Erythrocarpa Extract, Cornus Officinalis Fruit Extract, Geranium Thunbergii Extract, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Sodium Hyaluronate, Methylpropanediol, Laurylpyridinium Chloride, Chlorphenesin, 1,2-Hexanediol

Volume — 40 ml
Vita B3 Source
$20.00
Taxes & duties included.
Free worldwide shipping over $60. Ships from Seoul in 3–4 business days.