The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% - Oil Control Serum

Quick Facts

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Product Overview

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is one of the most popular and affordable serums in the skincare world, with over 70,000 units sold monthly on Amazon. This water-based serum combines a high concentration of niacinamide (vitamin B3) with zinc PCA to target multiple skin concerns including enlarged pores, uneven skin tone, excess oil production, and blemishes.

Niacinamide has become a superstar ingredient in skincare, backed by extensive scientific research showing its ability to strengthen the skin barrier, reduce inflammation, regulate sebum production, and improve the appearance of pores. At 10% concentration, The Ordinary delivers a potent dose at an unbeatable price point—most niacinamide serums cost $30-60, while this one is under $8.

The brand's no-frills approach (simple packaging, clinical formulations, transparent ingredient lists) has made it a cult favorite among skincare enthusiasts, particularly on Reddit's SkincareAddiction and TikTok. However, the high concentration can be irritating for some users, and the formula has a slightly sticky texture that not everyone loves.

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Key Features & Benefits

✓ 10% Niacinamide for Multiple Benefits
High concentration of vitamin B3 helps reduce the appearance of pores, regulate oil production, even out skin tone, and strengthen the skin's moisture barrier. Clinically proven to improve skin texture.

✓ 1% Zinc PCA for Oil Control
Zinc helps regulate sebum production and has anti-inflammatory properties that calm redness and irritation. Particularly beneficial for acne-prone and oily skin types.

✓ Reduces Blemishes & Congestion
The combination of niacinamide and zinc helps prevent breakouts, reduce existing blemishes, and minimize post-acne marks. Works well as part of an acne treatment routine.

✓ Improves Skin Texture & Tone
Regular use helps smooth rough texture, fade hyperpigmentation, and create a more even complexion. Many users report visible improvement in skin clarity within 2-4 weeks.

✓ Affordable & Accessible
At under $8 for 30ml, this serum offers clinical-grade skincare at a fraction of the cost of luxury brands. Excellent entry point for those new to active ingredients.

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Detailed Specifications

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Pros & Cons

✅ Pros

• Incredibly affordable - Under $8 for a 30ml bottle
• Multi-tasking formula - Addresses pores, oil, texture, and blemishes
• Science-backed ingredients - Niacinamide has extensive research supporting its benefits
• Cruelty-free and vegan - Ethical and accessible
• Simple, effective formulation - No unnecessary fillers or fragrances
• Works for multiple skin concerns - Versatile addition to any routine
• Large community support - Tons of reviews and tips online

❌ Cons

• Sticky texture - Can feel tacky on the skin, especially in humid weather
• Can cause purging - Some users experience initial breakouts as skin adjusts
• May irritate sensitive skin - 10% concentration is high and can be too strong for some
• Pills under other products - Can ball up when layered with certain moisturizers or sunscreens
• Not suitable for dry skin - Zinc can be drying; needs to be paired with good moisturizer
• Dropper packaging - Less hygienic than pump bottles

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How to Use

Step 1: Cleanse and Tone
Apply to clean, dry skin after cleansing and toning. Can be used morning and/or night.

Step 2: Dispense 2-3 Drops
Use the dropper to dispense 2-3 drops into your palm. A little goes a long way—you don't need much to cover your entire face.

Step 3: Apply to Face and Neck
Gently pat or press the serum into your skin, focusing on areas with enlarged pores, oiliness, or blemishes. Avoid the eye area.

Step 4: Wait Before Layering
Allow 1-2 minutes for the serum to fully absorb before applying other products. This helps prevent pilling and ensures maximum absorption.

Step 5: Follow with Moisturizer
Always follow with a good moisturizer, as niacinamide and zinc can be slightly drying. In the morning, finish with sunscreen.

Pro Tips:

• Start with once daily (evening) and gradually increase to twice daily if tolerated
• Don't use with vitamin C at the same time (can reduce effectiveness)—use vitamin C in AM, niacinamide in PM
• If you experience stickiness, try applying to slightly damp skin
• Mix a drop into your moisturizer if the texture bothers you
• Be patient—results typically appear after 4-6 weeks of consistent use

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Customer Reviews Summary

With over 98,000 reviews and an average rating of 4.3 stars, The Ordinary Niacinamide has a passionate following, though opinions are somewhat divided.

What Customers Love

"Shrunk My Pores Noticeably"
"After 3 weeks of daily use, my pores look so much smaller! My skin texture is smoother and my makeup goes on better. For $6, this is an absolute steal. I've repurchased it 5 times already."

"Controlled My Oily Skin"
"I have extremely oily skin and this serum has been a game-changer. My face doesn't get shiny by midday anymore, and I've noticed fewer breakouts. The zinc really helps regulate oil production."

"Faded My Acne Scars"
"I had dark spots from old acne and this serum has significantly faded them over 2 months. My skin tone is much more even now. Paired with sunscreen, it's been amazing for hyperpigmentation."

Common Criticisms

"Too Sticky and Pills"
"I wanted to love this because of the price, but the texture is awful. It feels sticky and tacky on my skin, and it pills when I try to apply moisturizer over it. I couldn't get past the texture."

"Broke Me Out Initially"
"This caused a purging phase where I broke out worse for the first 2 weeks. I almost gave up, but I pushed through and my skin cleared up beautifully after week 3. Just be prepared for potential purging."

"Too Strong for My Sensitive Skin"
"The 10% concentration was too much for my sensitive skin. It caused redness and irritation. I switched to a 5% niacinamide serum and had much better results."

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Alternatives to Consider

If The Ordinary Niacinamide isn't quite right for you, consider these alternatives:

Paula's Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster

Price: $44-52 | Rating: 4.5 stars
More elegant texture with better absorption and no stickiness. Same 10% niacinamide concentration but formulated to layer beautifully under other products. Worth the splurge if texture is important to you.

CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion

Price: $13-16 | Rating: 4.5 stars
Contains 4% niacinamide plus ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Lower concentration is gentler for sensitive skin, and it's a moisturizer so you get hydration and niacinamide benefits in one step.

Good Molecules Niacinamide Serum

Price: $6-8 | Rating: 4.4 stars
Similar price point to The Ordinary but with a lighter, less sticky texture. Contains niacinamide, zinc, and additional soothing ingredients. Great alternative if you like the concept but not the texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use niacinamide with retinol?
A: Yes! Niacinamide and retinol work beautifully together. In fact, niacinamide can help reduce the irritation that retinol sometimes causes. Apply niacinamide first, wait for it to absorb, then apply retinol.

Q: Can I use The Ordinary Niacinamide with vitamin C?
A: While not dangerous, it's best to separate them. Use vitamin C in the morning and niacinamide in the evening, or alternate days. Some studies suggest they can reduce each other's effectiveness when used together.

Q: Will this serum help with acne?
A: Yes, niacinamide has anti-inflammatory properties and helps regulate oil production, which can reduce breakouts. However, it's not a spot treatment—it works preventatively over time. Pair with other acne treatments for best results.

Q: Why does my skin feel sticky after applying?
A: The formula has a naturally tacky texture due to the high concentration of niacinamide. Try applying to slightly damp skin, using less product, or mixing it with your moisturizer to reduce stickiness.

Q: How long until I see results?
A: Most users notice improvements in oil control within 1-2 weeks, while changes in pore size and skin texture typically take 4-6 weeks of consistent use. Be patient and stick with it!

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Our Verdict

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is a skincare powerhouse that delivers impressive results at an unbeatable price. The high concentration of niacinamide effectively addresses multiple skin concerns—enlarged pores, excess oil, uneven texture, and blemishes—making it a versatile addition to most routines.

However, the formula isn't perfect. The sticky texture and potential for pilling under other products can be frustrating, and the 10% concentration may be too strong for sensitive skin. Some users also experience an initial purging phase. That said, for oily and combination skin types willing to work with the texture, this serum offers exceptional value.

Final Rating: 8/10

Best For: Oily and combination skin, enlarged pores, uneven skin tone, acne-prone skin, budget-conscious skincare enthusiasts, people new to niacinamide who want to try it affordably.

Skip If: You have very sensitive or dry skin (try a lower concentration), you're texture-sensitive and hate sticky products, or you're looking for immediate results (this requires patience).

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Where to Buy

Amazon: Check Current Price on Amazon
Sephora: View on Sephora
Ulta: View on Ulta
The Ordinary Website: Direct from Brand

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Affiliate Marketing Tips

Target Audience:

• Skincare beginners looking for affordable actives (ages 16-35)
• Reddit SkincareAddiction and TikTok skincare community
• People with oily, combination, or acne-prone skin
• Budget-conscious consumers seeking clinical-grade skincare
• Students and young professionals building their first skincare routine

Best Content Angles:

• "The Ordinary Niacinamide Review: Does This $6 Serum Actually Work?"
• "How to Use The Ordinary Niacinamide (And Avoid Common Mistakes)"
• "The Ordinary Niacinamide vs. Paula's Choice: Is the Upgrade Worth It?"
• "Complete Beginner's Guide to The Ordinary Skincare"
• "Best Affordable Serums: The Ordinary Niacinamide Review"

Seasonal Opportunities:

• Summer months (May-August) when oil control is most needed
• Back-to-school season for teens starting skincare
• New Year's resolutions (January) for better skincare habits
• Prime Day and Black Friday sales (though already very affordable)

Comparison Opportunities:

• The Ordinary Niacinamide vs. Paula's Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster
• The Ordinary Niacinamide vs. CeraVe PM (built-in niacinamide)
• Best niacinamide serums at every price point
• The Ordinary product guide: which serums to use together

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Last Updated: January 06, 2026
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