A Review of The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Smoothing Serum for Blemish-Prone Skin

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The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Review: Is This Cult-Favorite Serum Worth It?

If you struggle with breakouts, enlarged pores, or dull skin, you’ve probably heard of The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%. But does this budget-friendly skincare serum live up to the hype? I tested it for 6 weeks to give you the full breakdown.

What Is The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%?

This water-based serum is designed to reduce the appearance of blemishes, regulate oil production, and brighten the skin tone. It combines 10% niacinamide (vitamin B3) with 1% zinc PCA, two powerful ingredients known for improving skin clarity and minimizing congestion.

Claims:

• Visibly reduces blemishes

• Minimizes pores

• Controls excess sebum

• Evens skin tone

Target Audience:

Ideal for oily, acne-prone, or combination skin types. Also suitable for those dealing with redness, dullness, or post-acne marks.

Key Features / Benefits

• High-strength 10% niacinamide to reduce inflammation, dullness, and discoloration

• 1% zinc PCA helps balance oil production and calm the skin

• Oil-free, alcohol-free, silicone-free formula—great for sensitive skin

• Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture perfect for layering

• Non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and cruelty-free

What sets this apart is the clinical concentration of niacinamide at such an affordable price. It’s a rare combination of performance and accessibility.

What’s Included / Product Specs

• 30ml dropper bottle (also available in 60ml)

• Clear, lightweight serum texture

• Typically lasts 4–6 weeks with daily use

• Minimalist packaging with a glass bottle and dropper—functional and sturdy

How to Use It

1. Cleanse your face

2. Apply a few drops of serum to your entire face, avoiding the eye area

3. Follow with moisturizer and sunscreen in the AM

Best time to use: Morning and/or night

Tips: Always apply to clean, dry skin and wait a few seconds before layering other products. Avoid pairing with pure Vitamin C or acids to prevent irritation.

Ease of Use: Very simple. The dropper allows for clean, precise application.

My Experience / Testing Period

Testing Period: 6 weeks, used once daily (PM routine)

Impressions:

• Week 1: Slight tingling, no irritation

• Week 2–3: Noticeable reduction in oiliness and fewer breakouts

• Week 4+: Skin tone looked more even, with visibly smaller pores

• Week 6: Post-acne redness faded, especially around the chin and cheeks

It layered well under moisturizer and never caused pilling. A few hormonal breakouts still happened, but they healed faster.

Results: Does It Work?

Yes—and quicker than I expected.

• Oil control: Immediate improvement

• Pore appearance: Minimized within 2–3 weeks

• Blemish healing: Faster recovery and reduced inflammation

• Skin tone: Brighter and more balanced

Overall, the claims held up in real-world testing.

Side Effects or Issues

• Minor tingling for the first few uses

• May cause purging if your skin is not used to active ingredients

• Can dry out very dry skin types if not followed by a good moisturizer

Tip: Start with every other day if you have sensitive skin.

Who Should Use This Product?

Best for:

• Oily and combination skin

• Acne-prone skin

• Individuals with dark spots, post-acne marks, or dullness

• Anyone seeking affordable active skincare

Not ideal for:

• Very dry or mature skin (may need extra hydration)

• Those allergic to niacinamide or zinc

Price & Value

Retail Price: Around $6–$10 (depending on size and retailer)

Compared to other niacinamide serums that cost $30+, this product offers exceptional value for money. High-quality actives at a drugstore price.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Affordable

• Effective for acne and oily skin

• Minimal irritation

• Easy to incorporate into any routine

• Clean ingredients

Cons:

• May not be hydrating enough on its own

• Some users experience initial breakouts

• Not ideal for very dry or reactive skin

Final Verdict

Rating: (4.5/5)

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is a powerhouse serum for anyone battling blemishes, oily skin, or uneven tone. It’s effective, budget-friendly, and beginner-friendly—making it one of the most recommended niacinamide serums on the market.

If you’re looking for a reliable solution to boost your skin clarity without breaking the bank, this one’s a no-brainer.

Ready to try it for yourself? Shop now on Amazon