The Ordinary
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
QuickRatey Score
Composite of certifications, ingredient analysis, and sustainability practices.
Certifications
Buy From
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Customer Rating
Best for
Best for those with oily or combination skin seeking an affordable, effective treatment to minimize the appearance of pores and congestion.
AI Score Review
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is a high-strength vitamin and mineral formula that is a great value for those looking to visible reduce skin congestion.
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Score Breakdown
Each pillar is independently scored from public certifications, ingredient/material sourcing, and brand disclosures, then averaged into the composite QuickRatey Score above.
In-Depth Review
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is a water-based serum in the Beauty & Personal Care category that is the gold standard for achieving a balanced, matte complexion on a budget.
Who it's for
This serum is designed for individuals dealing with excess oil production and visible pores.
- Oily skin types prone to midday shine.
- Congested skin looking to improve texture.
- Budget-conscious shoppers seeking high concentrations of active ingredients.
- Teenagers or adults dealing with occasional blemish-induced Redness.
Key features & specs
| Feature | Detail |
| Main Ingredients | 10% Niacinamide, 1% Zinc PCA |
| Skin Type | Oily, Combination, Normal |
| pH Level | 5.50 - 6.50 |
| Formula | Oil-free, Silicone-free, Vegan |
| Size | 30ml or 60ml |
| Packaging | Recyclable glass bottle with dropper |
How it compares
Unlike expensive luxury serums that combine niacinamide with heavy botanical oils, The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% keeps the formulation focused and lightweight. It provides a higher concentration of active niacinamide than most drugstore-tier brightening serums, allowing for targeted results without unnecessary fragrances or fillers.
Compared to typical oil-control primers, this treatment works to regulate sebum production over time rather than just masking shine for a few hours. This makes it a more sustainable solution for long-term skin health.
How to use it
- Thoroughly cleanse your face and pat dry before application.
- Apply a few drops of the serum to the entire face in the morning and evening.
- Gently massage the product into the skin until fully absorbed.
- Follow with a water-based moisturizer to lock in the treatment.
- Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen as the final step in your morning routine.
"The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% has completely transformed my T-zone; it's the only product that keeps my oil in check all day without drying me out." — Verified buyer
Sustainability & ethics
The Ordinary, under DECIEM, prioritizes transparency in sourcing and has maintained a strict cruelty-free status. The packaging uses glass bottles and recyclable cardboard containers, and the brand has made significant strides in 2026 to ensure all supply chains are audited for fair labor practices.
Pro tip
Avoid using this serum in the same routine as pure Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid) treatments, as niacinamide can affect the integrity of the Vitamin C.
Frequently asked questions
Is The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% worth it?
Yes, this serum is exceptionally worth it because it offers clinical-grade concentrations of active ingredients at a fraction of the cost of luxury brands.
Does this product help with acne scars?
While primarily for oil control, the niacinamide in this formula helps fade the appearance of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation over time.
How does this compare to a standard clay mask?
This serum provides daily regulation of sebum, whereas a clay mask offers a more temporary, intensive extraction of oil once or twice a week.
Can I use this with retinol?
Yes, using niacinamide alongside retinol is highly recommended as it can help soothe the skin and reduce potential irritation caused by retinoids.
Pros
- ✓Significantly reduces oil production throughout the day.
- ✓Very affordable price point for high-quality active ingredients.
- ✓Simple, fragrance-free formula is suitable for sensitive skin.
Cons
- ✗Can cause pilling if integrated incorrectly into a multi-step routine.
- ✗Some users may experience a temporary purging period when first starting.
- ✗Dropper bottle can lead to product contamination if it touches the skin.
Key Facts
- Brand
- The Ordinary
- Category
- Beauty & Personal Care
- QuickRatey Score
- 82/100
- Price Range
- $ (≈ $6)
- Avg Rating
- 4.6/5 (12500 reviews)
- origin
- Canada
- material
- Liquid serum
- ph level
- 5.5-6.5
- packaging
- Glass bottle with glass dropper
- size or capacity
- 30ml
- Certifications
- Vegan, Cruelty-Free, Leaping Bunny
🌱 Sustainability
Glass packaging is 100% recyclable. DECIEM (parent company) has a dedicated recycling program for all components including droppers and pumps.
🧪 Ingredients & Materials
Contains no animal products, alcohol, oil, silicone, or nuts. High purity Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) paired with Zinc salt of pyrrolidone carboxylic acid.
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What Reviewers Say
"This is one of the most effective and affordable ways to treat congestion and oily skin on the market today."
"A great entry-point for niacinamide, providing visible results for pore size and skin tone evenness."
"We love the transparency in their ingredient list and the commitment to vegan, accessible skincare."
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% by The Ordinary ethically made?+
Yes. Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% earns an QuickRatey QuickRatey score of 82/100, backed by third-party certifications including Vegan, Cruelty-Free, Leaping Bunny. The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is a high-strength vitamin and mineral formula that is a great value for those looking to visible reduce skin congestion.
What certifications does Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% hold?+
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% holds the following certifications: Vegan, Cruelty-Free, Leaping Bunny. These independent verifications cover sourcing, animal welfare, environmental impact, and ingredient safety.
How sustainable is Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%?+
Glass packaging is 100% recyclable. DECIEM (parent company) has a dedicated recycling program for all components including droppers and pumps.
What are the key ingredients or materials in Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%?+
Contains no animal products, alcohol, oil, silicone, or nuts. High purity Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) paired with Zinc salt of pyrrolidone carboxylic acid.
How much does Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% cost?+
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is priced in the $ range for beauty & personal care. Visit the retailer links above for current pricing.
Where can I buy Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%?+
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is available from the brand's official website and major retailers. The product page above lists every verified retailer we track.
Customer Reviews
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