What Does The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Do?

📘 Introduction

If you’ve ever struggled with acne, oily skin, large pores, or dullness, chances are you’ve heard of The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% serum. It’s one of the most affordable and most-reviewed serums worldwide, and for a good reason.

But what exactly does it do? How does it work? And is it suitable for all skin types?

In this guide, we’ll explore scientific data, ingredients, benefits, usage instructions, and more to fully explain what The Ordinary Niacinamide serum does for your skin.

🧬 What is Niacinamide?

Niacinamide, also known as Vitamin B3, is a water-soluble vitamin that offers a wide range of skincare benefits. It’s scientifically proven to help strengthen the skin barrier, regulate oil production, and reduce inflammation.

🧪 Key Properties:

Property	Benefit
Anti-inflammatory	Calms redness and soothes acne
Sebum regulation	Controls oil production
Antioxidant	Protects from environmental stressors
Skin brightening	Reduces hyperpigmentation
Barrier repair	Strengthens skin and improves moisture retention

🧴 Product Overview

Feature	Details
Product Name	The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
Texture	Lightweight serum
Star Ingredients	10% Niacinamide + 1% Zinc PCA
Best for	Oily, acne-prone, dull skin
Routine Position	Use after cleansing, before moisturizers

⚙️ How The Ordinary Niacinamide Works

The serum combines high-strength niacinamide (10%) with zinc (1%), creating a formula that targets blemishes, clogged pores, and excess oil.

💡 Niacinamide:

Reduces inflammation in the skin
Balances melanin to fade dark spots
Tightens stretched pores

💡 Zinc:

Regulates sebum production
Has antimicrobial effects to reduce acne-causing bacteria
Calms redness and irritation

“Niacinamide is a multi-tasking molecule that improves almost every skin concern.” – Journal of Dermatological Science

✅ Main Benefits

Skin Concern	How Niacinamide Helps
Acne & blemishes	Reduces inflammation and speeds healing
Large pores	Minimizes appearance by reducing oil output
Hyperpigmentation	Fades dark spots and acne scars
Uneven skin tone	Brightens dull or blotchy skin
Oily skin	Regulates sebum, reducing shine
Skin sensitivity	Strengthens barrier to prevent irritation

🔬 Ingredients Breakdown

🧪 Active Ingredients

Ingredient	Function
Niacinamide	Anti-acne, brightening, barrier-strengthening
Zinc PCA	Oil regulation, soothing, anti-inflammatory
Propanediol	Humectant that helps with absorption
Tamarind Seed Gum	Natural moisturizer & smoothing agent

❌ Free From:

No alcohol
No oils
No silicone
No fragrance
Vegan & cruelty-free

👤 What Skin Types Should Use It?

Skin Type	Recommended?	Why
Oily	✅ Yes	Reduces oil and breakouts
Acne-prone	✅ Yes	Calms blemishes and reduces scarring
Sensitive	⚠️ Caution	Start slow to avoid irritation
Dry	⚠️ Use with a moisturizer	Can be drying alone
Combination	✅ Yes	Balances oil and clears congested pores

📅 How to Use The Ordinary Niacinamide

🔄 Daily Routine Placement:

Cleanser
Niacinamide Serum
Moisturizer
Sunscreen (AM)

💡 Pro Tips:

Use on clean, dry skin.
Don’t mix directly with Vitamin C (ascorbic acid).
If using multiple serums, apply from thinnest to thickest.

📷 Before and After Results

Time Period	Visible Change
1 Week	Less oiliness, some reduction in redness
2–3 Weeks	Fewer breakouts, smaller pores
4–6 Weeks	Brighter tone, faded acne marks, smoother texture

📊 User Poll (Data from Deciem Community):

Improvement Reported	Percentage (%)
Less oily skin	83%
Reduced blemishes	77%
Smaller-looking pores	69%
Brightened complexion	60%

📖 Scientific Studies

🔬 Study: “Topical Niacinamide in Acne Treatment”

Journal: International Journal of Dermatology
Results: 4% Niacinamide gel was as effective as 1% Clindamycin
Conclusion: Reduced sebum production & lesions significantly

🔬 Study: “Niacinamide Improves Skin Barrier”

Published in: Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology
Found that daily use of niacinamide reduced transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and improved skin hydration.

⚠️ Common Myths & Misconceptions

Myth	Truth
“Niacinamide purges the skin.”	False. Niacinamide is not a chemical exfoliant
“It causes irritation at 10%.”	Possible for sensitive skin, but rare. Start with less if needed
“It can’t be used with actives.”	It’s safe with retinol, peptides, and acids (if layered correctly)

🧪 Side Effects & Warnings

Tingling or stinging can occur, especially if used with strong actives
Overuse can lead to temporary redness
Avoid applying on wet skin to minimize irritation

❓ FAQ

Q: Can I use this with retinol?

✅ Yes. Apply niacinamide before retinol to reduce irritation.

Q: Should I use it once or twice a day?

🕒 Most users apply it twice daily for best results.

Q: Can I layer it with hyaluronic acid?

✅ Yes. Apply HA first, then niacinamide.

Q: Why is my skin purging?

It’s likely irritation, not purging. Reduce usage and moisturize well.

🛍️ The Ordinary vs Other Niacinamide Products

Brand	% Niacinamide	Extras	Price Range	Pros
The Ordinary	10%	Zinc 1%	💲	High strength, very affordable
Paula’s Choice	20%	Licorice, acetyl glucosamine	💲💲	Strong brightening
Inkey List	10%	Hyaluronic acid	💲	Hydrating and gentle

🧾 Summary

Feature	Value
Main function	Oil control, acne treatment, brightening
Key ingredients	Niacinamide + Zinc
Best for	Oily, acne-prone, dull skin
Usage frequency	1–2x daily
Side effects	Mild irritation (rare)
Key tip	Do not use on damp skin

🧠 Conclusion

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is a powerful, science-backed solution for people battling acne, oily skin, and hyperpigmentation. With consistent use, this budget-friendly serum helps balance oil production, shrink pores, and brighten skin tone — all without breaking the bank.

Whether you’re new to skincare or a seasoned user, this product deserves a permanent spot in your routine.

📦 Ready to Try It?

Shop authentic The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% now on:

👉 www.ordinary-maroc.com
📲 Contact us on WhatsApp: 0764469471
💯 100% Original, Imported from Europe