HI-REVIEW: TIA’M Vita B3 Source 

Have you ever heard of the brand TIA’M before? I did some searching and apparently TIA’M means “a twinkle in the eye when you meet someone for the first time” in Persian?! Other than the name, I found that this K-beauty brand has recently been on the rise in popularity for their serums! 

These past few weeks I have been testing out their Vita B3 Source serum which uses dual action brightening from Niacinamide and Arbutin to target uneven and dull skin. I was in desperate need of another Niacinamide serum so I thought it would be a good new try to test against other Niacinamide serums that I have used! 

Price: $29

Quantity: 40mL

How to Use: 

1. Apply 2-3 drops onto the face evenly after prepping with toner.
2. Reapply on areas of concern and gently tap until fully absorbed.
3. Apply a layer of sunscreen after application

The TIA’M Vita B3 Source is a clear serum that has no apparent scent or fragrance to it. The texture of the serum is not quite oily OR watery, a mixture between the two. As a result, the serum spreads really nicely and dries down after 30 seconds which is enough time to cover the skin. 

Aqua(water), Niacinamide (Vitamin B3: 10%), Butylene Glycol, Arbutin (2%), Methylpropane diol, Allantoin, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Chlorphenesin, Comus Officinalis Fruit Extract, Geranium Thunbergii Extract, Hydroxyethyl cellulose, Lindera Erythrocarpa Extract, Laurylpyridinium Chloride, 1,2-Hexanediol

The ingredients list is so short! But I would say this is almost better than a super long list especially for those with more sensitive skin :) Additionally, there are no additional fragrances, essential oils and alcohols added into the serum that can potentially irritate or dry out the skin. 

The highlight ingredient of this is the 10% Vitamin B3, which is also known as Niacinamide. This is a superstar ingredient that I loooove in my skincare regime as it has anti-inflammatory and anti-acne properties, while also helping to reduce hyperpigmentation and scars! 

A new ingredient I haven’t seen in K-beauty skincare is Arbutin (2%). It is supposedly a great ingredient for acne-prone or scarred skin as it works to fade any form of scar, freckles, age-spots and more.

Personal Opinion

After consistent use of TIA’M serum over the course of a few weeks, I felt my skin appeared fresher, especially in the mornings! On first use, I noticed a huge difference in my skin complexion- it made my skin look so plump and hydrated. After a while, I noticed an improvement in dullness, as well as reduction of my dark spots (old acne scars).

But the most impressive change was how it controlled my hormonal acne. Although this serum is highlighted as for fading scars and pigmentation, I personally found it most effective in preventing formation of pimples. While using this serum in conjunction with other products that fight acne, I noticed that I didn’t get any of the acne that I usually would, which was AMAZING. This was a surprising change because my other Niacinamide serums weren’t super great at fighting off my acne. This could be due to the Arbutin and formulation of this serum. Although I will say that I don’t know how effective it is on its own as an acne-fighting product.

Honestly, in terms of the downsides I would say none really. If I’m being super picky, I would say that I didn’t really notice any improvement in the appearance of blackheads or sebum - whereas my other Niacinamide products would clear my congestion quite well. Another factor I would consider for those wanting to buy this product, would be that a whopping 10% Niacinamide is a recipe for irritation for those with sensitive skin or have never used any serums before. But this is definitely not a downside to someone who is a skincare junkie as it makes the serum more effective! Some food for thought there. 

I would highly, highly, HIGHLY recommend this to anyone struggling with acne problems OR dullness to their skin. This product really brightens and brings a nice glow to the skin which is especially noticeable right when you apply it. While doing this, it is able to reduce acne and any type of pigmentation spots. All at a pretty decent price for a serum! 

Thanks for reading ❤️

Happy Shopping!