Item: The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
Rating: 4.3
Author: PICKVUE

Product Description

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is a water-based serum formulated to target visible shine, enlarged pores, and textural irregularities. Niacinamide, also known as Vitamin B3, is well-regarded for its ability to reduce the appearance of skin congestion and balance visible sebum activity, while Zinc PCA works to further support the skin's balance. This formulation is designed to be gentle enough for daily use and suitable for most skin types, particularly those prone to oiliness and breakouts.

Detailed Specifications

Feature	Specification
Key Ingredients	Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Zinc PCA
Concentration	10% Niacinamide, 1% Zinc PCA
Formula Type	Water-based serum
pH Range	5.50 - 6.50
Volume	30ml, 60ml
Cruelty-Free	Yes
Vegan	Yes
Alcohol-Free	Yes
Oil-Free	Yes
Silicone-Free	Yes
Nut-Free	Yes
Gluten-Free	Yes

The One Reason You Choose This Product

The most compelling reason to choose this product is its highly effective and affordable solution for visibly reducing enlarged pores, balancing oil production, and improving overall skin texture.

Key Ingredient Explanation

Ingredient	Consumer Benefit
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)	Helps to visibly reduce the appearance of enlarged pores, improve uneven skin tone, soften fine lines and wrinkles, and diminish dullness. It also supports the skin's barrier function.
Zinc PCA	Contributes to balancing visible sebum activity on the skin, which can help manage oiliness and reduce the likelihood of congestion. It also has mild astringent properties.

Brand Introduction

The Ordinary is a brand from DECIEM, a Canadian beauty company known for its functional, clinical formulations with integrity. Launched in 2016, The Ordinary quickly gained popularity for its transparency in ingredient listings, high concentrations of active ingredients, and remarkably affordable prices. Its philosophy centers on providing effective skincare solutions by focusing on individual ingredients rather than complex, proprietary blends, making advanced skincare accessible to a broader audience.

Positive User Reviews

Users frequently report a significant reduction in oiliness and visible pore size after consistent use.
Many have experienced a noticeable improvement in overall skin clarity and a decrease in breakouts.
It's widely praised for its affordability, making effective skincare accessible to many.
Reviewers appreciate its lightweight, non-sticky texture that absorbs quickly into the skin.
Some users find it helps to calm redness and improve skin tone over time.
It is often recommended for those with oily, combination, or acne-prone skin types.
The product is lauded for its straightforward ingredient list, appealing to those who prefer simple formulations.
Many report that it layers well with other skincare products without pilling.
It has become a staple in many skincare routines due to its consistent performance.
A good number of users have found it effective in managing hormonal breakouts.

Negative User Reviews

Some users have experienced initial purging or breakouts, particularly during the first few weeks of use.
A common complaint is that the product can feel sticky or foamy on the skin, especially if too much is applied.
For some, it caused dryness or irritation, especially when combined with other strong actives like Vitamin C or retinoids.
A few individuals reported no noticeable difference in their skin concerns.
Some users found the serum can pill on the skin when layered with certain moisturizers or sunscreens.
The dropper packaging can sometimes be perceived as less hygienic or precise by some.
It may not be suitable for very sensitive or dry skin types.
A small number of users noted a slight burning or tingling sensation upon application.
Results can be slow for some, requiring consistent use over several weeks to see improvement.
Some found the consistency to be too thick for their preference.

Positive vs. Negative Review Comparison

Positive Aspect	Counterbalancing Negative Aspect
Effective in reducing oiliness and pore size.	Can cause initial purging or breakouts for some users.
Affordable and accessible active ingredient serum.	May require careful layering to avoid pilling with other products.
Lightweight and quick-absorbing for many.	Can feel sticky or foamy on the skin for others, especially if over-applied.
Improves overall skin clarity and reduces breakouts for many.	May cause dryness or irritation, particularly when used with other potent actives.

Expected Experience When Purchasing

You can expect to receive a clear, slightly viscous serum in a frosted glass bottle with a dropper applicator, typical of The Ordinary's minimalist packaging.
Upon initial use, you might notice a slight tingling sensation, which usually subsides quickly. Consistent daily application is key to seeing results.
You may observe a gradual reduction in visible oiliness and pore size, with improvements in skin texture and fewer breakouts becoming apparent over several weeks of regular use.

Recommended User Types for This Product

User Type	Rating	Reasoning
Individuals with Oily/Combination Skin	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	Excellent for controlling excess sebum production and minimizing the appearance of enlarged pores, leading to a more matte complexion.
Those Prone to Breakouts/Congestion	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	The Niacinamide and Zinc work synergistically to reduce inflammation, improve skin clarity, and help prevent the formation of new blemishes.
Budget-Conscious Skincare Enthusiasts	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	Offers highly effective active ingredients at an exceptionally affordable price point, making it a great value for targeted skin concerns.

Good Products to Buy Together

Complementary Product	Why It's a Good Match
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5	This hydrating serum provides multi-depth hydration without adding oil, perfectly complementing Niacinamide's oil-balancing effects and preventing potential dryness.
The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA	A non-comedogenic moisturizer that provides surface hydration and barrier support, which is essential to lock in the benefits of Niacinamide and maintain healthy skin.
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun : Rice + Probiotics	A lightweight, non-greasy sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection. Sunscreen is crucial for any active-heavy routine and pairs well without adding oiliness.

Alternative Products

Alternative Product	Why a User Might Prefer This Alternative
Paula's Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster	Users might prefer this for its slightly more elegant texture, often praised for blending seamlessly, and its inclusion of additional skin-benefiting ingredients, though at a higher price point.
Good Molecules Niacinamide Serum 10%	This offers a similar concentration of Niacinamide at an even lower price point, making it an attractive option for those on a very strict budget who want to try Niacinamide.
Axis-Y Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum	While also containing Niacinamide (5%), this serum is designed with a broader focus on hyperpigmentation and brightening, containing ingredients like Squalane and Sea Buckthorn, which might be preferred by users primarily targeting dark spots and glow rather than just oil control.

Final Summary

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% stands out as a highly effective and incredibly accessible serum for managing common skin concerns like excess oil, enlarged pores, and textural irregularities. Its straightforward formulation, leveraging the power of Niacinamide and Zinc PCA, delivers tangible results for many, particularly those with oily or blemish-prone skin. While some users may experience initial purging or find its texture a bit sticky if over-applied, its benefits in controlling shine and improving skin clarity often outweigh these minor drawbacks. The brand's commitment to transparency and affordability makes this serum a cornerstone product for anyone looking to incorporate a potent yet gentle active into their routine without breaking the bank. Overall, it's a stellar choice for its targeted action and value, making it a highly recommended staple for its intended audience.