Naturium

Naturium Niacinamide Serum 12% Plus Zinc 2%

Name: Niacinamide Serum 12% Plus Zinc 2%
Brand: Naturium
Price: 17 USD
Availability: InStock

Serum·Budget-Friendly·$17 / 30ml — $0.57/ml

Naturium Ulta Target Amazon

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Naturium Niacinamide Serum 12% Plus Zinc 2%$17 / 30ml — $0.57/ml

Naturium Ulta Target Amazon

Formulation Summary

A high-concentration niacinamide serum with 12% niacinamide and 2% zinc PCA. The formula is clinically tested to reduce the appearance of dark spots, pores, and fine lines. Suitable for most skin types including sensitive skin with patch testing.

This formula prioritizes active concentration in a simple 16-ingredient base. The 12% niacinamide is paired with 2% zinc PCA, a compound that combines zinc with a natural moisturizing factor (L-PCA) for oil control without stripping. Glycerin and sodium hyaluronate provide humectant hydration. Dimethicone creates a smooth finish and helps with even application. Tocopheryl acetate (vitamin E) adds antioxidant support. The short ingredient list reduces potential for sensitivities.

Quick Facts

TextureLightweight serum; absorbs quickly with minimal tackiness

ColorClear to slightly cloudy

Fragrance-free✓ Yes

Cruelty-free✓ Leaping Bunny

Vegan✓ Yes

ScentFragrance-free; may have faint product scent that dissipates

Designed For

•Oily and combination skin seeking sebum control
•Uneven skin tone and dark spots
•Fine lines and early signs of aging
•Enlarged pores and textured skin
•Those who want higher niacinamide concentration than standard 10%

May Not Suit

•Very sensitive skin that reacts to high niacinamide concentrations; start with patch test
•Those with known sensitivity to zinc-based ingredients
•Users who prefer silicone-free formulas (contains dimethicone)
•Extremely dry skin types may need additional hydration layered

Key Ingredients

Ingredient	Concentration	Function
Niacinamide	12%brand-confirmed	Regulates oil, reduces pore appearance, fades dark spots, strengthens skin barrier, and provides anti-aging benefits
Zinc PCA	2%brand-confirmed	Oil-control compound that combines zinc with L-PCA (a natural moisturizing factor). Reduces sebum production and has antimicrobial properties against acne bacteria. Also supports collagen synthesis.
Sodium Hyaluronate	—	Sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid; hydrates skin and helps other ingredients penetrate
Tocopheryl Acetate	—	Vitamin E derivative; provides antioxidant protection and supports skin healing

The Formulation Explained

High-concentration niacinamide

At 12%, this is higher than most niacinamide serums, which typically range from 5-10%. Niacinamide appears second on the INCI list after water, consistent with the stated concentration. Research supports niacinamide at 10%+ for oil control, pore appearance, and hyperpigmentation.

Zinc PCA for oil control

The 2% zinc PCA combines zinc with L-PCA, a natural moisturizing factor. This targets sebum production without the dryness associated with some zinc compounds. The pairing with high-concentration niacinamide creates a dual approach to oil control.

Sensitive skin considerations

The short 16-ingredient formula and fragrance-free formulation reduce irritation potential. However, 12% niacinamide is higher than the 2-5% typically recommended for sensitive skin. The brand advises patch testing. Many sensitive-skin users report good tolerance, but individual results vary.

Clinical testing

The brand cites an 8-week study on 30 subjects across skin types including self-perceived sensitive skin. The study was brand-conducted; independent methodology verification is not publicly available. Results align with published niacinamide research.

Ingredients to Know

PhenoxyethanolComedogenicity: 0/5Irritancy: 1/5

Common preservative considered safe at cosmetic concentrations. Generally well-tolerated.

DimethiconeComedogenicity: 1/5Irritancy: 0/5

Silicone that creates smooth texture and helps with product spread. Some users prefer to avoid silicones for personal preference.

Hexylene GlycolComedogenicity: 0/5Irritancy: 1/5

Solvent and penetration enhancer. Can cause irritation in very sensitive individuals at high concentrations.

User Feedback Patterns

Higher quality than The Ordinary:Users who have tried both brands frequently note Naturium feels 'better quality' with faster absorption and less pilling, though acknowledging The Ordinary costs less.

Effective but requires patience:Most users report visible improvement in skin texture and oil control within 2-4 weeks, with more significant changes at the 6-8 week mark.

Minimal scent issue:Some users note a subtle odd scent, though it dissipates quickly after application. Generally not a dealbreaker.

Layers well:Consistent praise for how this serum absorbs and layers under other products without pilling or feeling heavy.

Full INCI List

16 ingredients · Click "Show full list" to view

About Naturium

Founded2019

FounderSusan Yara and Ben Bennett (The Center)

LocationLos Angeles, California

CertificationsLeaping Bunny, Dermatologist Tested

All products list pH levels on packaging. Key active concentrations are prominently disclosed. The brand maintains an ingredient library on its website explaining each component. Yara remains with the brand under e.l.f. ownership.