If there is one bottle that has defined the democratization of skincare over the last decade, it is undoubtedly The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%.
It is the product that launched a thousand "shelfies" and introduced millions to the concept of single-ingredient clinical skincare.
But amidst the viral TikTok trends and overwhelming praise, a critical conversation is often missing: is 10% niacinamide actually too much for your skin? While this serum is hailed as a holy grail for regulating sebum and refining texture, dermatology statistics suggest that concentrations above 5% can trigger irritation, redness, and even breakouts in sensitive skin types. This isn't just a review; it's a guide to navigating the hype without compromising your skin barrier.
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% promises to tackle the trifecta of oily skin woes: enlarged pores, uneven texture, and excess shine.
With consistent use, the brand claims it can transform congested skin into a smooth, matte canvas. However, real-world application is nuanced.
Based on extensive testing and community feedback, while the results for oily and blemish-prone skin are undeniably impressive, the journey requires patience—often taking 4-6 months of consistent use to see the full benefits.
Before you add this potent active to your cart, let's break down the science, the risks, and the reality of this cult-classic serum.
✨ Glaze Theory Verdict: TL;DR
- Best For: Oily, Combo, and Acne-Prone Skin Types looking for sebum control.
- Price: ~$6.00 USD (30ml) / ~$10.80 USD (60ml)
- Key Ingredient: Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) 10% + Zinc PCA 1%
- Main Limitation: High concentration can cause stinging, irritation, or "pilling" under makeup.
- Our Take: An unbeatable budget staple for oil control, but proceed with caution if you have sensitive skin.
What Is The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%?
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is a high-strength vitamin and mineral blemish formula. Unlike traditional serums that hide active ingredients behind fillers and fragrance, this product puts its stars front and center.
It is a water-based serum with a slightly viscous, gel-like texture that is clear and cloudy. The formulation is vegan, cruelty-free, alcohol-free, and oil-free, maintaining a pH balance between 5.50 and 6.50, which is optimal for skin compatibility.
Tested & Verified by Glaze Theory Team
Real testing, not paid reviews
🎯 Our Testing Methodology:
We tested The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% through daily routine testing, patch tests, and before/after tracking. Our team has 5+ years in skincare research and has reviewed 300+ products since 2021.
The primary function of this serum is not to treat active acne directly (like Benzoyl Peroxide or Salicylic Acid would), but rather to support skin health to prevent future congestion.
It works by reinforcing the skin barrier while simultaneously telling your oil glands to "calm down." This dual action makes it unique.
However, because it is a high-strength formula, it bridges the gap between cosmetic skincare and clinical treatments.
It addresses enlarged pores not by shrinking them (physically impossible), but by clearing out the debris that stretches them open and tightening the pore lining, resulting in a smoother visual appearance.
🧪 Key Ingredients Analysis
💡 Looking for More Glow?
Discover our exclusive guides on K-Beauty and Dermocosmetics used by experts.
Explore Blog| Ingredient | Concentration | Benefit | Scientific Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) | 10% | Brightening, Barrier Support, Oil Control | High (Gold Standard) |
| Zinc PCA | 1% | Sebum Regulation, Anti-inflammatory | Moderate-High |
| Pentylene Glycol | Variable | Humectant, Texture Enhancer | High |
| Tamarindus Indica Seed Gum | Trace | Hydration, Smoothing | Moderate |
How to Use The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
Step 1: Cleanse
Start with a gentle cleanser suitable for your skin type. Since Niacinamide is water-soluble, it needs a clean, oil-free canvas to penetrate effectively.
Pat your face dry—avoid applying this specific serum on soaking wet skin as it can cause the product to foam or lather, a common quirk of this formulation. If you suffer from fungal acne, ensure your cleanser is also safe; you might find our review on Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo as a fungal acne hack useful for the cleansing step.
Step 2: Apply
Dispense 2-3 drops into the palm of your hand. Do not let the dropper touch your skin to maintain hygiene. Gently pat—do not rub—the serum into your face.
Rubbing vigorously can cause the product to "pill" (ball up) due to the thickening agents used in the formula. Focus on the T-zone or areas where you have visible pores or excess oil production.
Step 3: Follow Up
Once the serum has dried down (give it about 60 seconds so it feels tacky but not wet), lock it in with a moisturizer. This step is crucial because while Niacinamide helps the barrier, the zinc can be slightly drying.
During the day, always finish with SPF. We highly recommend using a primer-like sunscreen to prevent further pilling; see our tested review of Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 for a compatible option.
Pro Tips from Glaze Theory
- Tip 1: Mix a single drop into your moisturizer if the 10% concentration causes stinging. This dilutes the strength while still providing benefits.
- Tip 2: Use it on your back or chest if you suffer from body blemishes; the Zinc PCA works wonders on body acne.
- Tip 3: Avoid using this in the same routine as Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid) suspensions if you have sensitive skin, as it can lead to temporary flushing.
📸 ⚠️ The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%: Why It Irritates Skin
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🎥 Video Tutorial
How To Use The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
Video by SkinZone
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Who Should Use The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%?
✅ Ideal For:
- Oily Skin Types: The 1% Zinc PCA is a powerhouse for regulating sebum production, making you look less greasy by midday.
- Acne-Prone Skin: It helps reduce the inflammation associated with breakouts and prevents pores from getting clogged with sticky sebum.
- Texture Issues: Those struggling with rough skin texture will notice a smoothing effect after consistent use over 4-6 months.
❌ Not Ideal For:
- Dry Skin: The high concentration of Zinc can be drying. If you use it, ensure you pair it with a heavy moisturizer.
- Highly Sensitive Skin: 10% Niacinamide is double the clinical standard (which is usually 2-5%). This can cause burning, redness, or a histamine response in sensitive individuals.
Pros and Cons (After 30-Day Testing)
✅ Pros
- Significantly reduces oil production within 2 weeks.
- Visibly brightens post-acne marks (PIH) over time.
- Strengthens the skin barrier against environmental stress.
- Extremely affordable price point (~$6.00).
- Fragrance-free and widely accessible.
❌ Cons
- Can pill (ball up) under makeup or silicone-based moisturizers.
- High 10% concentration causes stinging for some users.
- Texture can feel sticky or tacky before drying down.
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% vs Alternatives
How does it compare to similar products in the saturated Niacinamide market?
vs Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum (K-Beauty)
The Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum pairs Niacinamide (2%) with Propolis (60%). This is the "gentle giant" alternative. Unlike The Ordinary's aggressive 10% concentration, the Beauty of Joseon formula focuses on hydration and soothing (the "Hanbang" approach).
The texture is much more elegant, slightly thicker but absorbs without pilling. If The Ordinary stings your face or feels too drying, the Beauty of Joseon serum is the superior choice, though it is slightly more expensive per ml.
vs The Inkey List Niacinamide
The Inkey List offers the closest direct competitor. Their Niacinamide serum also boasts a 10% concentration but includes 1% Hyaluronic Acid instead of Zinc.
This makes it better suited for dry or dehydrated skin types who want the brightening benefits of Niacinamide without the drying effects of Zinc. However, for true oil control, The Ordinary still wins because of the Zinc PCA inclusion.
Results Timeline
Day 1-7: Don't expect miracles yet. You might feel immediate oil control (matte finish) upon application. Some users experience a "purge" (small whiteheads), though true Niacinamide purging is rare—it's often irritation.
Week 2-3: Reduction in redness and inflammation. Active breakouts may heal faster due to the anti-inflammatory properties of Zinc.
Month 1: Skin feels smoother. Daily oil production is noticeably regulated (you might need fewer blotting papers).
Month 2-3: Long-term transformation begins. Pores appear smaller (because they are cleaner), and dark spots begin to fade.
Potential Side Effects & Precautions
⚠️ Common Reactions:
Mild stinging upon application is common due to the high percentage. A temporary "soapy" white foam may appear if you rub it into damp skin—this is harmless but annoying.
🚨 When to Stop:
If you experience small, itchy bumps (contact dermatitis) or persistent redness that doesn't subside after 10 minutes, discontinue use immediately. This is a sign the 10% concentration is compromising your barrier.
☀️ Sun Sensitivity:
Niacinamide does not increase sun sensitivity; in fact, it boosts sun protection efficacy. However, always wear SPF 30+ to prevent the dark spots you are treating from darkening again.
FAQs
Q: Is The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% fungal acne safe?
Yes, The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is generally considered fungal acne (Malassezia) safe. Its formulation avoids fatty acids, esters, and oils that typically feed the yeast associated with fungal acne. However, it does contain Pentylene Glycol, which some highly sensitive individuals may react to, though it is usually safe.
Q: Can I use this with retinol/vitamin C/AHA/BHA?
You can use Niacinamide with Retinol and AHAs/BHAs (acids). In fact, Niacinamide can help soothe the irritation caused by these actives. Regarding Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid), while modern chemistry shows they don't neutralize each other, The Ordinary officially recommends using them at alternate times (Niacinamide in the AM, Vitamin C in the PM) to avoid potential flushing or conflict in their specific formulation.
Q: Is it worth the price?
Absolutely. At approximately $6.00 USD for 30ml, it is one of the most cost-effective active serums on the market. When compared to luxury serums costing $50+, the price-per-ml value of The Ordinary is unbeatable, provided your skin tolerates the high 10% concentration.
Q: How long does one bottle last?
With consistent daily use (3 drops, once or twice daily), a standard 30ml bottle typically lasts between 2 to 3 months. The larger 60ml supersize option can last 4 to 6 months.
Q: Where can I buy this product?
You can purchase authentic bottles from The Ordinary's official website, Sephora, Ulta Beauty, and authorized K-Beauty or international retailers like Cult Beauty. Be cautious when buying from unauthorized third-party sellers on Amazon to avoid counterfeits.
Final Verdict: Is The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Worth It?
After a comprehensive analysis of the ingredients, market comparisons, and results timeline, The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% remains a skincare staple for a reason.
It offers an incredibly potent dose of two of the most effective ingredients for fighting congestion and oil, all for the price of a latte.
For teenagers dealing with puberty-related oiliness, or adults managing persistent shine and texture, it is a holy grail product.
However, the "Warning" in our review title stands. More is not always better. 10% Niacinamide is a high dose that can trigger irritation in skin that isn't resilient.
It lacks the cosmetic elegance of more expensive, lower-percentage formulas found in K-Beauty. If you prioritize texture, layering capability, and a gentle approach, this might be too harsh for you.
But if you want raw, effective power to control oil on a budget, this little frosted bottle is unbeatable.
🏆 Glaze Theory Rating: 8.5/10
Bottom Line: The undisputed champion of budget-friendly oil control. It loses points only for its potential to irritate sensitive skin and its tendency to pill under makeup, but the results for blemish-prone skin are undeniable.