The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum
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Formulation Summary
A minimalist, high-concentration niacinamide serum with just 11 ingredients. The formula delivers 10% niacinamide plus 1% zinc PCA in a water-based vehicle. This is The Ordinary's approach distilled: one active at a high concentration, minimal supporting ingredients, transparent pricing.
The Ordinary built this formula around the principle that effective skincare does not need to be expensive. Niacinamide at 10% targets multiple concerns simultaneously: oil control, pore appearance, texture, and brightness. Zinc PCA adds sebum-regulating support while also functioning as a humectant. The formula is alcohol-free, oil-free, silicone-free, and vegan. No fragrance or unnecessary additives.
Quick Facts
Designed For
- •Oily and combination skin seeking oil control
- •Those who want a no-frills, high-potency niacinamide serum
- •Budget-conscious skincare users
- •People targeting enlarged pores and textural irregularities
- •Users building ingredient-focused routines
May Not Suit
- •Very sensitive skin; 10% niacinamide may be too strong
- •Dry skin types; zinc PCA has a matte, oil-absorbing effect
- •Those who prefer elegant textures; this can pill under other products
- •Users who want additional actives in the same formula
Key Ingredients
| Ingredient | Concentration | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Niacinamide | 10%brand-confirmed | Multi-functional vitamin B3; regulates sebum, minimizes pores, brightens, supports barrier, calms inflammation |
| Zinc PCA | 1%brand-confirmed | Zinc salt that regulates sebum production, provides humectant properties, offers anti-aging benefits |
The Formulation Explained
High-potency niacinamide
At 10%, this is a high concentration of niacinamide. Research supports niacinamide at 4-5% for most benefits, so 10% may provide faster or stronger results. However, this increases irritation risk for sensitive skin. The brand discloses this concentration, and niacinamide appears second in the ingredient list after water.
Zinc PCA for oil control
The 1% zinc PCA works synergistically with niacinamide for sebum regulation. Zinc PCA is a zinc salt that helps control oil production while also providing humectant properties. This combination is particularly effective for oily and combination skin types.
Minimalist formula
With only 11 ingredients, this is an intentionally simple formula. No fragrance, no silicones, no oils. The trade-off is texture; users commonly report pilling under other products and a tacky feel. The brand prioritizes function over elegance.
Clinical testing
Brand testing shows texture improvement in one week and reduced pore appearance in four weeks. A non-comedogenic study on 35 subjects applying the product twice daily for 8 weeks supported the claim, though some users do report initial breakouts.
Ingredients to Know
Emulsifier; some sources flag potential comedogenic concern though clinical evidence is limited
Common preservative; generally well tolerated
Preservative booster; works synergistically with phenoxyethanol
User Feedback Patterns
Full INCI List
11 ingredients · Click "Show full list" to view
About The Ordinary
The Ordinary discloses exact active concentrations. Full ingredient lists with explanations available on website. Brand pioneered ingredient transparency in skincare.
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Sources
- • https://theordinary.com/en-us/niacinamide-10-zinc-1-serum-100436.html
- • https://incidecoder.com/products/the-ordinary-niacinamide-10-zinc-1
- • https://www.sephora.com/product/the-ordinary-deciem-niacinamide-10-zinc-1-P427417
Last updated: 2026-03
Rating Scales
Comedogenicity (0-5)
Likelihood of clogging pores. 0 = won't clog, 1-2 = low, 3 = moderate, 4-5 = high.
Irritancy (0-5)
Potential for skin irritation. 0 = non-irritating, 1-2 = low, 3 = moderate, 4-5 = high.
Ratings based on published ingredient studies. Individual reactions may vary.