Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
The most popular serum in the world for good reason. High-concentration niacinamide (10%) paired with zinc PCA targets pores, oil control, and blemishes simultaneously. Clean formula, no fillers, transparent concentrations.
Score breakdown
Efficacy
Safety
Comedogenicity
Transparency
Skin-type fit
Strengths
- High-dose niacinamide (10%) with proven efficacy
- Zinc PCA for oil control
- Incredibly affordable
- Transparent concentrations disclosed
Weaknesses
- Can cause flushing at 10% for some (lower % works too)
- Minimal hydration (pair with moisturizer)
- Pilling when layered with some products
Full ingredient list
Best for
Our full review
This is the product that made The Ordinary a global phenomenon. At 6 EUR for 30ml, it delivers 10% niacinamide (vitamin B3) and 1% zinc PCA - a combination that targets pores, oil control, and blemishes simultaneously. It's the most-purchased serum on the planet for a reason: it works, it's cheap, and it's compatible with almost everything else in your routine. The formula is deliberately minimal (11 ingredients) with no fragrance, no unnecessary fillers. What you see is what you get. The only catch: 10% niacinamide is higher than what most studies use (2-5%), and some people experience temporary flushing at this concentration. If that happens, try using it every other day or buffering with moisturizer.
How to use
Apply 2-3 drops to clean, slightly damp skin before moisturizer. Can be used AM and PM. In the AM, follow with SPF. Compatible with most actives including vitamin C (the old myth that they cancel each other out is debunked). If you experience flushing, try: 1) reducing to every other day, 2) mixing with moisturizer, 3) switching to a 5% niacinamide product. Avoid layering with too many water-based serums at once (pilling risk).
Who is it for?
Best for: oily/combination skin, acne-prone skin, enlarged pores, post-acne marks, uneven skin tone. Works for all skin types but shines brightest on oily skin. Less ideal for: very dry skin (not hydrating enough alone), extremely sensitive skin that reacts to 10% concentration.
What to expect
Week 1-2: reduced oiliness, skin feels mattified. Week 3-4: pores start appearing smaller, fewer new blemishes. Month 2-3: visible reduction in post-acne marks, more even skin tone. Month 3+: consistent oil control, clearer complexion. Full results on hyperpigmentation take 8-12 weeks.
Common mistakes
1. Using too much - 2-3 drops is enough, more won't work better and increases pilling risk. 2. Expecting instant pore shrinkage - niacinamide works over weeks, not days. 3. Layering over 3+ serums - causes pilling and reduces absorption. 4. Panicking about flushing - temporary redness at 10% is normal, not an allergy. 5. Skipping moisturizer - niacinamide doesn't replace your moisturizer.
FAQ
Can I use The Ordinary Niacinamide with vitamin C?
Is 10% niacinamide too much?
How it compares
SVR combines niacinamide (4%) with 14% gluconolactone (PHA) and salicylic acid - a more complete anti-acne formula. But it costs 3x more. The Ordinary is pure niacinamide at maximum strength. For oil control only, TO wins on value. For full anti-acne treatment, SVR is more complete.
Very similar products at similar price points. The INKEY List uses 10% niacinamide + 1% hyaluronic acid (vs The Ordinary's zinc PCA). Choose TO if your main concern is oil/pores. Choose INKEY List if you want more hydration alongside the niacinamide.