At a Glance: The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Highlights
Serum with 10% Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) and 1% Zinc PCA
Targets visible shine, enlarged pores, and uneven skin texture
Fragrance-free, oil-free, and vegan formula
Suitable for oily, combination, and blemish-prone skin
Lightweight, non-greasy texture absorbs quickly
Can be used morning or night routine
Easy-to-use dropper bottle for daily application
If you’re tired of shiny skin, frequent breakouts, or uneven texture, The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is a serum worth considering. With years of experience researching skincare products, I’ve reviewed thousands of customer insights and scientific formulations to help highlight what genuinely works. In this review, we’ll explain who benefits from this formula, how the ingredients support clear skin, and why it’s such a popular pick for those fighting blemishes or excess oil.
Let’s set realistic expectations about what this serum can (and can’t) do, helping you make an informed decision for your own skin needs.
Why We Chose the Ordinary Niacinamide Serum
After a deep review of dozens of niacinamide serums and analyzing user feedback, The Ordinary’s serum stands out for a few strong reasons:
Simple, Laboratory-Backed Ingredients: Focused on niacinamide and zinc, both supported by dermatologists for blemish and oil control.
Widespread User Success: Over 41,000 global ratings with a very high satisfaction average (4.7 out of 5), suggesting real results for a variety of skin types.
Neutral, No-Fuss Formula: Free from added fragrance, oils, alcohol, and unnecessary extras—suitable even for sensitive routines.
Compared to expensive competitors and crowded formulas, this serum maintains a direct approach that appeals to both beginners and those with established routines. Its awards, cult following, and lasting reputation put it head-to-head above other niacinamide options on the market.
Is This the Right Niacinamide Serum for You?
This serum is especially helpful for those struggling with blemishes, shiny or oily skin, and rough texture. If you prefer straightforward skincare and noticeable results without a lengthy list of ingredients, this formula is likely a good fit.
Teens and adults with oily or combination skin
Anyone managing breakouts, congestion, or enlarged pores
People who want to even out redness or post-acne marks
Fragrance-sensitive users needing a gentle formula
Budget-conscious shoppers wanting dermatologist-recommended actives
Not for: Very dry or irritated skin types may find this serum a bit drying unless layered with a rich moisturizer. Those allergic to niacinamide or zinc should avoid.
Specifications & Practical Impact
Characteristic |
Details & Useful Context |
|---|---|
Main Actives |
10% Niacinamide (helps reduce redness, balance oil, promote radiance) |
Texture |
Lightweight, slightly viscous serum; quickly absorbed, leaves no sticky finish |
Volume/Size |
Typically available in 30ml and 60ml bottles (ample for several months’ daily use) |
Packaging |
Opaque dropper bottle protects formula and eases mess-free application |
Skin Types |
Best for oily, combo, and blemish-prone skin; suitable for sensitive |
Free From |
No added fragrance, oil, silicone, gluten, or alcohol |
Cruelty Free |
Yes, vegan and never tested on animals |
Niacinamide Power: Reduces Redness and Brightens Skin
The highlight ingredient, niacinamide, is well-known for calming redness, reducing the look of blemishes, and supporting an even skin tone. Dermatologists frequently recommend it for those with visible pores or uneven patches.
For example, users say that applying it each morning leads to a more uniform look, with redness and post-acne marks fading away after just a few weeks.
Zinc PCA: Keeps Excess Oil and Shine in Check
Zinc isn’t just a mineral for your diet—it’s beneficial for balancing sebum and calming breakouts when used in skincare. In this serum, zinc PCA works alongside niacinamide for a less greasy, fresher skin feel.
Those with T-zone shine or midday oiliness appreciate how much more matte their skin stays throughout the day after regular use. If you’ve ever felt frustrated by makeup sliding off with excess oil, this serum helps keep things steady.
Fragrance-Free and Minimalist for Sensitive Skin
While many products overload on scents and extras, The Ordinary’s serum is made without fragrance or potential irritants. This makes it popular even for those with reactive or breakout-prone complexions.
Questions about layering? No worries—this serum sits comfortable under moisturizers and sunblocks, so it fits well in simple or advanced routines without pilling or reaction.
What We Like & What Could Be Improved
This serum delivers targeted benefits with plenty of positive experiences, but like any product, it comes with its strengths and minor drawbacks.
-
PROS:
Noticeably smooths skin and minimizes pores
Reduces shine and visible blemishes
Works for sensitive skin, no added fragrance
Easy to incorporate into both day and night routines
Highly rated and consistent results across skin types
-
CONS:
Mild tingling for some on first uses (usually subsides)
Can be slightly drying for those with already dry skin
No luxury packaging—very clinical look
What Customers Are Saying About The Ordinary Niacinamide Serum
Thousands trust this serum as a core part of their daily routine, consistently mentioning clearer skin, fewer breakouts, and smoother texture. Many reviewers say it stands out both for affordability and effectiveness, even when compared to pricier picks.
The most common praise includes quick absorption, no perfume, and the way it helps with shiny areas and pore size. While a handful experience brief tingling or dryness early on, most find their skin adapts well over time—especially when paired with a good moisturizer.
Review Feedback Highlights
Llevo varias semanas usando The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% y honestamente me ha encantado. Desde los primeros días noté la piel más limpia, con menos brillo y una textura mucho más suave. Los poros se ven más cerrados y el rostro se siente fresco, sin esa sensación grasosa que tenía antes.Lo que más me gusta es que no tiene perfume ni deja sensación pesada. Se absorbe rápido y deja la piel lista para aplicar mi hidratante o protector solar. Además, con muy poca cantidad alcanza para todo el rostro, así que rinde muchísimo.Al principio sentí un leve cosquilleo, pero desapareció rápido y luego mi piel se adaptó sin problema. Lo uso una vez al día, por la noche, y me levanto con la cara más uniforme y luminosa.Creo que es una excelente opción calidad-precio, especialmente si buscas controlar el exceso de grasa o mejorar la textura sin gastar demasiado.✅ Recomendado para piel mixta o grasa.💧 Consejo: acompáñalo de un buen hidratante para mantener el equilibrio.
I’m honestly blown away by how seamlessly The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% has integrated into my skincare routine. As someone with sensitive, combination skin and a minimalist approach to products, I’m picky about what earns a permanent spot on my shelf, and this serum has quickly become a daily essential.Each morning, I apply it after The Ordinary’s Hyaluronic Acid serum and before my La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair UV SPF moisturizer. The texture is lightweight, just slightly viscous, and it absorbs quickly without pilling or leaving any sticky residue. It has a faint, almost clinical scent (no added fragrance, which I appreciate!), and once dry, it’s practically undetectable on the skin.What stands out most is how visibly balanced and smooth my skin looks after just a couple weeks of use. Redness around my nose has diminished, and those stubborn hormonal breakouts on my chin and jawline are noticeably reduced. My pores appear more refined, especially in the T-zone, and I’ve experienced no irritation or dryness at all, which is a rarity with many actives I’ve tried in the past.Compared to other niacinamide serums I’ve tested (both drugstore and high-end), this one strikes the perfect balance between potency, gentleness, and price. No gimmicks, no fluff, just a straightforward formula that works. And at this price point? It’s honestly a steal.I haven’t had any issues with texture or reaction, and it layers beautifully under both serums and sunscreen. For anyone looking to brighten skin tone, minimize pores, or control excess oil, I can’t recommend this enough. Yes, I’ll absolutely be repurchasing.Bottom line: this is one of those products that makes you wonder why you didn’t start using it sooner.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum
Can you use this niacinamide serum with other actives like vitamin C or retinol?
Most experts recommend using niacinamide and vitamin C at different times (AM/PM), but layering with most moisturizers, SPF, and hyaluronic acid is safe and common for better skin hydration.How quickly do you see results when using this serum?
Many users see improvement in skin texture and shine within two to four weeks. Consistent use and pairing with a gentle moisturizer tend to get the best outcomes.Is The Ordinary Niacinamide suitable for sensitive or acne-prone skin?
Yes, the minimal, fragrance-free formula makes it an everyday-safe option for sensitive and blemish-prone faces. If irritation occurs, space out applications and moisturize well.Does the serum help with dark spots and blemish marks?
Niacinamide is shown to help fade dark spots and even skin color, especially when supported by diligent sun protection during the day.
Warranty Coverage & Support Details
Knowing your skincare products are backed by support gives peace of mind. The Ordinary, as part of DECIEM, offers a standard return and refund policy for unopened and unused items purchased from authorized retailers or their own site.
While there isn’t a traditional long-term warranty for skincare, DECIEM is known for customer support and satisfaction assistance. For the best support, save your order confirmation and contact their service team through their official website if any concerns about authenticity or product condition arise.
Our Final Verdict on The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% remains a go-to serum for anyone hoping to improve oily, shiny, or blemish-prone skin without a complicated routine. Its simple, trusted formula and widespread positive feedback make it a standout choice for those looking to minimize pores and get smoother, healthier skin.
Whether you’re just starting with skincare or are a seasoned routine builder, this serum’s balance of results, safety, and value is hard to ignore. My research shows it’s a smart pick for long-term use with consistent care and sun protection. Click the button above to see the latest offers and ratings from real users.
FTC Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you purchase through them. Your trust matters and commissions never influence our recommendations. All opinions are based on thorough product research and customer data.
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