Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
A high-strength niacinamide serum designed to target visible shine, textural irregularities, and dullness.
A strong affordable pick for oily, combination, and congestion-prone skin that wants a simple sebum-balancing serum. May be too strong for very sensitive or dry skin.
It's cheap, direct, and effective for oil and shine control. It became the gateway product for skincare beginners who wanted to try an active without spending much — and the results are real enough to justify its permanent place in many routines.
After cleansing, before moisturizer. Morning and/or evening. Many people use it morning-only for daytime glow management.
Oily, combination, and congestion-prone skin types who want visible results from a straightforward, affordable serum.
If your skin is already dry, sensitized, or you're in a heavy retinoid phase. 10% niacinamide may push reactive skin into flushing territory. If that happens, try a lower-concentration niacinamide formula first.
Hold off until your barrier is stable. Applying a 10% active serum over a disrupted barrier can cause more irritation than benefit. Wait for calm, stable skin, then introduce slowly.
- A lightweight hydrating toner before application
- A barrier-supportive moisturizer after
- SPF in the morning
Best For
- Oily skin
- Combination skin
- Visible shine
- Enlarged-looking pores
- Uneven texture
- Congestion-prone skin
How to Use
Apply a few drops after cleansing and before moisturizer, morning and/or night. Patch test if reactive.
Key Ingredients
Niacinamide strengthens the skin barrier, regulates sebum production, fades hyperpigmentation, and minimizes the appearance of enlarged pores.
Regulates sebum production, reduces shine, helps minimize the appearance of pores, and provides mild antimicrobial benefits for congestion-prone skin.
Full Ingredient List
About This Product
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is one of the best-selling skincare products globally. The 10% niacinamide concentration is on the higher end for over-the-counter formulas — effective for oily and congestion-prone skin but potentially too strong for very sensitive or dry skin. Zinc PCA (not zinc oxide) is included specifically for its sebum-regulating properties, which complement niacinamide's pore and oil work. The formula is simple, water-based, and designed to layer easily in any routine.