Lat. Hydration · Long. BarrierIndependent skincare field guide — 204 products mapped · updated October 2026
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The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% (view 2)The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% (view 3)Serums

Serumsby The Ordinary

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

The Ordinary's Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% remains a cult-favorite serum for oily and blemish-prone skin, delivering visible improvements in texture and shine control at an unbeatable price.

4.3
Dewy Atlas score4.3 / 5
  • Results4.0
  • Gentleness4.1
  • Texture4.0
  • Value4.6
  • Controls excess oil
  • Minimizes blemishes
  • Budget-friendly serum
Skin type
Oily, combination, blemish-prone
Texture
Lightweight, water-based serum
Size
30 ml / 1 fl oz
Key ingredient
10% Niacinamide, 1% Zinc PCA
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Overview

What it is & who it suits

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is a high-strength, water-based serum formulated to target visible signs of blemishes and congestion while helping to balance oil production. This lightweight formula combines a generous ten percent concentration of niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3 known for supporting the skin's barrier and improving the appearance of uneven texture and tone, with one percent zinc PCA, which works to regulate sebum and refine the look of enlarged pores. Together these two ingredients create a fast-absorbing, non-greasy serum that fits easily into both morning and evening skincare routines, making it a staple for anyone dealing with oily, acne-prone, or congested skin.

The texture of this serum is notably fluid and almost watery, sitting comfortably under moisturizer or sunscreen without pilling or leaving a sticky residue. A few drops applied to clean, dry skin before heavier creams allow the active ingredients to penetrate effectively, targeting the appearance of blemishes, uneven skin tone, and dullness over consistent use. Many users find that incorporating this serum into their daily regimen helps the complexion look more refined and matte throughout the day, particularly in the T-zone area where oiliness tends to be most pronounced.

Its clear, lightweight consistency also makes it a versatile addition for layering with other treatments in a broader skincare routine. As part of The Ordinary's clinical formulations lineup, this niacinamide and zinc serum reflects the brand's commitment to straightforward, effective skincare without unnecessary additives or inflated pricing. It is formulated without added fragrance, keeping irritation potential low for those with sensitive or reactive skin, though a patch test is always recommended before full application.

This serum has become one of the brand's most recognized products within the Skincare & Face Care category, valued for its simplicity, affordability, and visible impact on skin clarity, making it a practical choice for those seeking to address oiliness and textural concerns as part of a consistent skincare routine.

Key features

  • 10% Niacinamide to visibly balance sebum activity
  • 1% Zinc PCA to help regulate blemish-prone skin
  • Lightweight water-based serum formula
  • Fragrance-free and oil-free
  • Suitable for use morning and evening

Specifications

The formula, by the numbers

Key Actives
10% Niacinamide, 1% Zinc PCA
Volume
30 ml / 1 fl oz
Skin Type
Oily, combination, blemish-prone
Texture
Lightweight, water-based serum
Fragrance
Fragrance-free

Pros & cons

What we liked, what we didn’t

Pros

  • Noticeably reduces oiliness and shine over time
  • Helps minimize appearance of blemishes and congestion
  • Affordable price point for the results delivered
  • Absorbs quickly without heavy residue
  • Fragrance-free, good for sensitive skin

Cons

  • Can cause initial purging for some users
  • Slightly tacky finish if layered with heavy creams
  • Not recommended for very dry or dehydrated skin alone
  • Glass dropper bottle requires careful handling
4.3Our score

The verdict

The Ordinary's Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% remains a cult-favorite serum for oily and blemish-prone skin, delivering visible improvements in texture and shine control at an unbeatable price. While not ideal for extremely dry skin types, its targeted formula makes it a smart addition to most skincare routines.

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