The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Review: A Complete Guide to This Niacinamide Serum for Oily Skin
If you’re exploring effective solutions for oily and acne-prone skin, chances are you’ve come across The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% review at some point. This blog post offers a detailed look at this popular serum, breaking down its ingredients, benefits, user experiences, and frequently asked questions. Whether you’re struggling with excess shine, acne breakouts, or uneven skin tone, this comprehensive review covers everything you need to know about The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, including how to use it effectively and what kind of results to expect.
What Is Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%?
At its core, The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% serum combines two star ingredients formulated specifically for oily and acne-prone skin types.
Niacinamide: The Multi-Benefit Vitamin B3
Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, is renowned in skincare for its versatility. At a 10% concentration, it serves several important functions:
- Strengthens the Skin’s Acid Mantle: This protective barrier made of water, oils, and dead skin cells helps shield your skin from environmental damage, pollution, and bacteria. For enhanced hydration and barrier support, consider pairing niacinamide with a good moisturizer like The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA, which complements niacinamide’s effects by keeping skin hydrated without clogging pores.
- Reduces Inflammation: Particularly helpful for acne and sensitive skin, niacinamide calms redness and irritation.
- Regulates Sebum Production: This helps control shine and reduce oily buildup that can clog pores.
- Brightens Skin Tone: By fading dark spots and hyperpigmentation, it helps even out complexion.
- Improves Hydration: By minimizing transepidermal water loss, it locks moisture in, keeping skin supple.
Zinc PCA: Oil Control and Soothing Power
Zinc PCA is a water-soluble salt that brings targeted benefits for oily and acne-prone skin:
- Reduces Sebum Output: Excess oil production is curbed, decreasing the risk of pore clogging and breakouts.
- Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Zinc helps calm acne flare-ups and soothe irritated skin.
- Works in Tandem with Niacinamide: Together, they address pore congestion, sebum control, and skin texture.
Who Should Use This Serum?
The serum suits different skin profiles but shines especially for:
- Oily and acne-prone skin
- Combination skin
- Sensitive skin types prone to inflammation
- Enlarged pores and skin texture irregularities
If your skin struggles with oiliness, breakouts, or uneven tone, this niacinamide serum for oily skin offers targeted benefits without overwhelming your skin.
User Experience & The Ordinary Niacinamide Results
What can you realistically expect from regular use of The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%? Here, we share genuine user feedback and highlight common outcomes based on real-world usage.
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Before and After: Visible Improvements
Multiple users report significant improvements in:
- Reduced oiliness and shine, leading to fewer midday touch-ups.
- Clearer skin with diminished acne breakouts and post-acne marks.
- Smaller, less noticeable pores, contributing to smoother skin texture.
- More even skin tone due to the brightening effects of niacinamide.
Texture and Application Experience
The serum is water-based, lightweight, and clear. Some users find it slightly sticky initially, but it absorbs quickly without leaving residue or greasiness. The formulation’s fast absorption makes it ideal for layering under moisturizers and sunscreens. For optimal layering, see our guide on using The Ordinary Multi-Antioxidant Radiance Serum together with other products, which includes tips on layering lightweight serums effectively.
How Long Before You See The Ordinary Niacinamide Results?
Patience is key. Visible improvements generally occur within 4 to 6 weeks of consistent morning and evening use. As with many skincare actives, gradual results build up over time — staying consistent will maximize benefits.
Usage Tips for Best Results
To harness the full potential of this niacinamide serum for oily skin, a proper application routine is crucial.
How to Use The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
- Cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser.
- Apply a few drops of the serum over your face and neck.
- Gently pat to encourage absorption.
- Allow the serum to absorb fully before applying moisturizer.
- Use morning and evening, unless skin is sensitive—then start with once daily.
If you are using complementary hydrators for skin barrier support, The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 with Ceramides is an excellent next step after applying niacinamide. This combination boosts hydration while maintaining skin barrier health.
Ideal for Oily Skin Types
Because it is lightweight and water-based, this serum controls shine and sebum without clogging pores or feeling heavy. It is particularly good for oily skin needing blemish-reducing and pore-minimizing care.
Can I Use Niacinamide With Retinol?
Yes, niacinamide is often recommended alongside retinol because it can help reduce retinol-related irritation. However, it’s best to:
- Introduce retinol gradually.
- Avoid layering multiple strong actives all at once.
- Use niacinamide serum separately in morning or evening routines if discomfort arises.
For more on combining actives in your routine, including retinol and antioxidants, check our comprehensive guide on multi-antioxidant serums and layering techniques.
Important Precautions
- Patch test before full face use to check for sensitivity.
- Avoid applying on broken or irritated skin.
- Discontinue use if you experience redness or persistent irritation.
Pros and Cons of The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
To help you make an informed choice, here’s a clear summary of the serum’s strengths and potential drawbacks based on user reviews and product analysis.
Pros
- Very affordable at around $6 for 30ml, making it accessible.
- Effective in reducing oil and controlling acne.
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing water-based formula.
- Reduces pore size and brightens dull skin.
- Suitable for oily, combination, sensitive skin.
- Cruelty-free, vegan, and free from alcohol, fragrance, oils, gluten, silicones.
Cons
- May cause mild irritation or redness in some sensitive individuals—patch testing advised.
- Some users find the slightly sticky feel unpleasant initially.
- Not ideal for very dry skin types due to its oil-controlling nature.
Compared to pricier niacinamide serums, The Ordinary’s combination with zinc at this price point offers a compelling value.
If you are looking for a gentle moisturizer to pair with this serum, especially for oily skin, consider The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA which is designed to hydrate without added oils or heaviness.
Product Information Table: The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum |
| Manufacturer | Deciem (The Ordinary) |
| Size | 30 ml (1 fl oz) |
| Price Range | $6 – $7 USD |
| Key Ingredients | 10% Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), 1% Zinc PCA (Water-Soluble Zinc Salt) |
| pH | Approximately 5.5 – 6.0 (close to skin’s natural pH) |
| Skin Types | Oily, acne-prone, combination, sensitive, normal, mature |
| Texture | Clear, lightweight, water-based serum |
| Benefits | Controls sebum and oil production, reduces acne, calms inflammation, minimizes pores, brightens skin tone |
| Free From | Alcohol, fragrance, oils, gluten, silicones; cruelty-free and vegan |
| Packaging | Clear glass bottle with dropper |
Comparison Table: The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% vs. Other Niacinamide Serums
| Brand / Product | Niacinamide % | Zinc % | Price (30ml) | Suitable Skin Types | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% | 10% | 1% | $6 | Oily, acne-prone, sensitive | Affordable, includes zinc, oil control, brightens | Slightly sticky, mild irritation risk |
| Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide Serum | 10% | 0% | $36 | All skin types | Lightweight, fragrance-free | No zinc, higher price |
| La Roche-Posay Mela-D Pigment Control | 10% | 0% | $40+ | Sensitive, hyperpigmentation-prone | Good for pigmentation, dermatologist tested | Expensive, no zinc |
| The Inkey List Niacinamide Serum | 10% | 0% | $10 | Oily, combination | Budget-friendly, non-sticky formula | No zinc, may cause dryness |
The Ordinary stands out due to its inclusion of zinc PCA at 1%, which specifically targets oil control and acne, alongside its unmatched price point.
Where to Buy The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
For authenticity and best prices, always purchase from trusted retailers. Here are popular options:
- Amazon: Wide availability, fast shipping, reliable customer reviews.
- Sephora: Convenient for multi-brand shopping and frequent promotions.
- Ulta Beauty: Purchase in-store or online with loyalty rewards.
- Official The Ordinary Website: Guarantees authentic products directly from the brand.
Avoid purchasing from unauthorized sellers to prevent counterfeit or expired products.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use niacinamide with retinol?
Yes, niacinamide is safe to use alongside retinol. It may even help reduce retinol-induced irritation. However, it’s best to introduce retinol gradually and avoid layering multiple strong actives in one routine to minimize sensitivity. More tips on combining actives can be found in our Multi-Antioxidant Serum review.
How long until I see results?
Most users notice visible improvements in skin texture, oil reduction, and breakouts after about 4 to 6 weeks of consistent use.
Is this serum good for oily skin?
Absolutely. The serum is formulated specifically to regulate oil production, reduce shine, minimize acne, and smooth skin texture, making it ideal for oily skin types.
What are the side effects or things to watch out for?
Some users, especially those with sensitive skin, may experience mild irritation or redness. It’s advised to perform a patch test before applying to the whole face. Discontinue use if severe reactions occur.
Can I use this with vitamin C or AHAs?
Yes, but it’s recommended to patch test and space out usage to avoid excessive sensitivity, especially if you are combining multiple active ingredients. For example, when using glycolic acid products, allow time between applications to reduce irritation risk. Learn more in our The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner review.
Conclusion
In this The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% review, we found a highly effective, affordable serum designed to tackle oily, acne-prone skin with targeted ingredients. Niacinamide strengthens the skin barrier, reduces inflammation, controls oil, and brightens complexion, while zinc PCA complements these effects by decreasing excess sebum and calming irritation.
The Ordinary Niacinamide results from real users commonly include reduced shine, clearer skin, minimized pores, and an overall smoother texture. Its lightweight, water-based formula fits well within morning and evening skincare routines, and compatibility with retinol adds versatility.
However, users with very sensitive or dry skin should patch test first to avoid possible irritation.
This serum delivers excellent value, outperforming more expensive competitors by blending efficacy with budget consciousness. With consistent use and proper application, it can become a valuable part of your skincare arsenal.
Empower yourself to make a confident choice supported by this review—discover contemporary skincare benefits on a budget with The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% serum.
We hope this detailed review helps you make an informed decision about incorporating niacinamide serum for oily skin into your daily routine.
