The Ordinary
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
$6-7
Key Takeaways
- One of the most cost-effective niacinamide serums on the market at around $6 for 30ml
- 10% concentration is on the higher end and delivers faster results, but patch test if you have sensitive skin
- Pilling under makeup is the main usability drawback — apply at night to sidestep it
- Best suited for oily, combination, and normal skin types managing pores, texture, and mild hyperpigmentation
Best For
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Extremely affordable for an active serum
- Effective concentration of niacinamide and zinc PCA
- Minimal, clean ingredient list
- Reduces visible pores and controls oil over time
Cons
- 10% niacinamide is high and can cause mild flushing in some users
- Pilling under makeup is a common complaint
- Watery texture requires careful layering
Key Ingredients
Full Ingredient List
Aqua (Water), Niacinamide, Pentylene Glycol, Zinc PCA, Tamarindus Indica Seed Gum, Xanthan Gum, Isoceteth-20, Ethoxydiglycol, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin
Overview
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is one of the brand’s bestselling products and a genuine cult classic in budget skincare. At around $6 for 30ml, it delivers a clinically relevant dose of niacinamide alongside zinc PCA, making it one of the most accessible active serums available anywhere.
This is not a complicated product. The ingredient list is short by design, and the formula is built around a single active pairing rather than trying to do everything at once. That restraint is part of what makes it work.
Ingredient Analysis
Niacinamide (10%) is the star. At this concentration, it works to inhibit melanosome transfer (reducing dark spots), strengthen the lipid barrier, regulate sebum production, and reduce the appearance of enlarged pores. The 10% dose is on the higher end of what you’ll find in consumer products — most competitors sit at 5% — and this is both a strength and a caveat.
Zinc PCA (1%) adds oil control and mild antimicrobial benefits, making this formula especially useful for acne-prone and oily skin types. Zinc PCA is a form of zinc that’s more water-soluble than zinc oxide and better suited to serum textures.
The rest of the formula is largely functional. Pentylene Glycol acts as both a humectant and preservative booster. Tamarindus Indica Seed Gum and Xanthan Gum provide the light gel texture — but these gums are also responsible for the pilling issue that plagues this product.
Texture and Application
The serum has a water-thin, slightly tacky texture that applies easily but takes longer to fully absorb than the packaging suggests. Waiting 3-5 minutes before layering is essential if you’re applying this in the morning — rushing causes pilling with most primers and sunscreens.
At night, the pilling issue largely disappears. Applying it as the first active step after cleansing, under a moisturizer, is the most reliable way to use this product.
Results
Consistent use over 4-8 weeks shows measurable improvement in pore appearance and oil control for most users. Hyperpigmentation response is slower and depends on concentration and how consistently SPF is used alongside it. Don’t expect overnight brightening — this is a long-game ingredient.
Verdict
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% delivers real results at an unbeatable price point. The pilling issue is annoying but manageable with adjusted layering habits. For oily and combination skin types who want a no-frills, science-backed active serum without spending $30+, this is a clear first recommendation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does The Ordinary Niacinamide pill under my makeup?
Pilling happens because the Tamarindus Indica Seed Gum and Xanthan Gum in this formula don't play nicely with silicone-based primers or some sunscreens. Let it fully absorb for at least 5 minutes before layering, or switch to applying it only at night.
Is 10% niacinamide too high?
For most people, no. Studies show benefits across 2-10%, and 10% tends to deliver faster visible results. However, very sensitive skin types may experience mild flushing. If that happens, try a 5% formula first and work up.
Can I use this with retinol?
Yes, niacinamide and retinol pair exceptionally well. Niacinamide can actually help buffer some of the irritation retinol causes, making this combo ideal for people building retinol tolerance.