Compare Products: The Niacinamide 15 Serum vs SuperSolutions 20% Niacinamide Serum
Ingredient Analysis
Both products share niacinamide and zinc PCA as core actives. COSRX The Niacinamide 15 Serum adds acetyl glucosamine for brightening and trehalose for extra hydration. The Inkey List SuperSolutions 20% Niacinamide Serum adds squalane for richer emollient feel. Choice depends on whether you want brightening extras or a more moisturizing texture.
COSRX The Niacinamide 15 Serum includes acetyl glucosamine alongside niacinamide, a recognized combination for tone-evening. The Inkey List SuperSolutions 20% Niacinamide Serum relies on niacinamide alone for that goal.
The Inkey List SuperSolutions 20% Niacinamide Serum contains squalane and glycerin, giving richer skin-softening support. COSRX The Niacinamide 15 Serum's hydration relies mainly on humectants.
The Inkey List SuperSolutions 20% Niacinamide Serum contains three preservatives including benzyl alcohol, raising its irritation potential. COSRX The Niacinamide 15 Serum's preservative load is lighter.
COSRX The Niacinamide 15 Serum includes tocopherol for antioxidant protection. The Inkey List SuperSolutions 20% Niacinamide Serum has no clear antioxidant ingredient.
The Inkey List SuperSolutions 20% Niacinamide Serum's dual polymer system creates a silky, smooth texture. COSRX The Niacinamide 15 Serum uses xanthan gum alone, giving a simpler gel feel.
- •Niacinamide concentration is undisclosed in both products; efficacy depends heavily on the amount used.
- •Acetyl glucosamine in COSRX The Niacinamide 15 Serum may brighten, but evidence is less robust than for niacinamide alone.
- •Benzyl alcohol in The Inkey List SuperSolutions 20% Niacinamide Serum is a preservative here, but it is a known sensitizer for some people.
- •Squalane position in The Inkey List SuperSolutions 20% Niacinamide Serum's list suggests a moderate concentration, but the exact amount is unknown.
- •Both products list zinc PCA, but its position differs, so relative concentrations likely differ too.
- •Pentylene glycol in COSRX The Niacinamide 15 Serum acts as both humectant and preservative booster; concentration affects tolerance.
Analysis generated from both INCI lists using Claude. Ingredient order indicates relative concentration; exact percentages are usually undisclosed.
Who It's Designed For
- Oily and acne-prone skin seeking serious oil control
- Post-acne marks and hyperpigmentation
- Enlarged pores and textured skin
- Users ready to step up from 10% to higher-strength niacinamide
- Those who prefer minimal-ingredient formulas
- Very oily skin seeking maximum oil control
- Stubborn enlarged pores unresponsive to lower niacinamide concentrations
- Users who have tolerated 10-15% niacinamide and want to increase strength
- Budget-conscious users wanting clinical-strength actives
- Those seeking exfoliating effects (20% niacinamide has mild exfoliating properties)
Key Ingredients
Niacinamide (15%), Acetyl Glucosamine (2%), Zinc PCA (1%), Allantoin (0.1%)
Niacinamide (20%), Zinc PCA (0.5%), Squalane (3%)
Product Composition
26% similarity (6 ingredients in common)
Only in COSRX (10)▾
Only in The Inkey List (7)▾
User Feedback Patterns
Users consistently report significant reduction in daytime oil and shine. Many describe it as the best niacinamide serum they have tried for sebum control.
Unlike some high-concentration serums, this absorbs quickly without tackiness or residue. Layers well under other products.
The 20ml size (vs. 30ml standard) is a common gripe, especially given the price point.
Users report visible pore improvement around the 3-4 week mark with consistent twice-daily use.
Users with very oily skin consistently report this as one of the most effective oil-control products they have tried. Many note all-day mattifying effect.
Despite the 20% concentration, most users report no irritation. However, patch testing is frequently mentioned as important for first-time users.
Users who found The Ordinary's 10% niacinamide too weak or pilling-prone often prefer this. The gel texture absorbs cleanly.
Some users report a white film if they apply too much. The brand addresses this: use less product and follow immediately with moisturizer.
Which Should You Buy?
The Inkey List SuperSolutions 20% Niacinamide Serum offers great value at a lower price point. COSRX The Niacinamide 15 Serum may be worth the premium if you want Niacinamide (15%).
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