Compare Products: Niacinamide Oil Control Serum vs Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%
Who It's Designed For
- Oily and combination skin seeking oil control
- Acne-prone skin wanting to reduce blemishes
- Enlarged pores and uneven texture
- Those sensitive to zinc who want a niacinamide serum
- Niacinamide beginners looking for a gentle entry point
- Experienced vitamin C users who want maximum potency at minimum cost
- Those who have built tolerance to lower vitamin C concentrations
- Users willing to work with a challenging texture for strong active delivery
- Budget-conscious shoppers seeking L-ascorbic acid at 23%
- People who use vitamin C as a nighttime treatment
Key Ingredients
Niacinamide (10%), Hyaluronic Acid (1%)
23% L-Ascorbic Acid, 2% Sodium Hyaluronate (HA Spheres), Squalane
Product Composition
17% similarity (6 ingredients in common)
Only in The Inkey List (18)▾
Only in The Ordinary (12)▾
User Feedback Patterns
Multiple users note this formula does not ball up under other products or makeup, unlike some competing niacinamide serums.
Users with dry or combination skin report this feels more hydrating than pure niacinamide serums with zinc, likely due to the squalane, HA, and lack of zinc.
The squeeze bottle with press-down cap makes it difficult to control how much product dispenses. Some users report buildup around the opening.
Consistent feedback about reduced pore appearance within 2-4 weeks of daily use.
Nearly all first-time users report significant stinging and tingling. This subsides for most within 1-2 weeks of regular use as skin builds tolerance.
Layering anything over this product commonly causes pilling. Users have found that applying it as the last step at night or mixing with a drop of oil reduces this issue.
Users who tolerate the texture report visible brightening, improved tone, and reduced dark spots. The $8 price point makes it a cult favorite despite the application challenges.
Due to texture and pilling issues, most users reserve this for nighttime use. It does not layer well under sunscreen or makeup.