The Ordinary Niacinamide Review

The Ordinary Niacinamide Review: Miracle Serum for Oily Skin

Oily skin can be frustrating. From constant shine to enlarged pores and frequent breakouts, managing oil production is often a daily battle. For years, skincare enthusiasts and dermatologists alike have recommended niacinamide to combat these issues. One product that consistently rises to the top is The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, often considered the best serum for oily skin with niacinamide. In this comprehensive The Ordinary Niacinamide Review, we’ll explore whether this cult favorite serum is truly the miracle solution it's made out to be. Using real-life experiences, expert tips, and science-backed insights, we answer the big question: Does it really work for oily, acne-prone skin, large pores, and acne scars?

What Is The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%?

At first glance, this product seems almost too good to be true — a highly potent niacinamide serum with zinc that costs under ₹600 (or $10) and promises to control oil, minimize pores, fade blemishes, and strengthen the skin barrier. The Ordinary Niacinamide Serum is a water-based formula containing 10% Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) and 1% Zinc PCA, designed to target skin congestion, reduce sebum production, minimize pores, and improve overall clarity.

Key Ingredients:

• Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) 10%: One of the most well-researched ingredients in skincare. It reduces sebum, supports skin elasticity, brightens dull skin, and minimizes hyperpigmentation.

• Zinc PCA 1%: A sebum-balancing compound that has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties — perfect for acne-prone skin.

Free from alcohol, essential oils, fragrance, gluten, and parabens, The Ordinary offers a clean, simple formulation that is effective and suitable for most skin types.

The Ordinary niacinamide before and after

To evaluate the true effectiveness of The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, we committed to using it twice daily—morning and evening—for a full 90 days. The journey revealed noticeable improvements in oil control, pore size, acne marks, and overall skin texture which helped us to provide a better The Ordinary Niacinamide Review. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what we observed at each stage of the skincare trial.

Week 1–2: Initial Reaction

In the first two weeks, we closely monitored how our skin responded to this high-potency niacinamide serum. Upon initial application, a mild tingling sensation was felt, particularly on sensitive areas like around the nose and cheeks. However, this tingling subsided after a few uses and did not cause any irritation or redness.

By the end of the second week, there was a visible reduction in greasiness, especially in oil-prone areas such as the forehead and chin. The skin felt more balanced and fresh throughout the day. Importantly, there were no signs of purging, breakouts, or clogged pores, making this a promising start—especially for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin.

Week 3–6: Visible Results Begin

During weeks 3 to 6, more significant changes began to emerge. One of the most noticeable improvements was the reduction in shine on the T-zone, which previously required frequent blotting. The skin began to look more matte, yet not dehydrated.

We also observed that pores appeared tighter and less visible, particularly around the nose and cheeks. This helped give the skin a smoother appearance under makeup. Additionally, acne marks and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) started to fade slightly, indicating the serum’s potential for improving uneven skin tone over time.

Week 7–12: Transformation Phase

By the seventh week, the skin had undergone a marked transformation. Sebum production was noticeably reduced, leading to fewer midday touch-ups and a consistent matte finish throughout the day. Large pores, once prominent on the cheeks and nose, now looked visibly minimized and refined.

Most impressively, post-acne scars and blemishes had lightened considerably, making the complexion look more even and healthy. The texture of the skin also became much smoother, with a soft and balanced finish that felt supple to the touch. Makeup application became easier and more flawless due to this improved texture.

The difference before and after 90 days was visibly clear. The skin looked healthier, more balanced, and significantly less oily. While results may vary from person to person, consistent use of The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% proved effective in reducing oiliness, refining pores, lightening acne scars, and smoothing skin texture—all without irritation or harsh side effects.

Why It’s Best Serum for Oily Skin With Niacinamide?

Among the countless skincare products available today, The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% consistently ranks at the top for those with oily and acne-prone skin—and for good reason. Its minimalist formulation focuses purely on results, without unnecessary irritants.
Free from fragrance, alcohol, and parabens, this serum is especially suited for sensitive, oily, or blemish-prone complexions. It delivers powerful results without clogging pores or overwhelming the skin.

Key Benefits of The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1

• Regulates Sebum Production: Noticeably reduces excess oil within just 2–3 weeks of regular use, helping you achieve a more balanced, matte complexion.
• Reduces Pore Size: With consistent application, the appearance of enlarged pores is visibly minimized, particularly around the T-zone.
• Brightens Skin Tone: Helps fade dark spots, post-acne marks, and uneven pigmentation, leaving the skin clearer and more even-toned.
• Lightweight & Non-Greasy Texture: Absorbs quickly into the skin, making it ideal for layering under sunscreen or makeup without pilling.

This combination of effectiveness, clean formulation, and affordability is what makes The Ordinary Niacinamide the best serum for oily skin with niacinamide on the market today.

Niacinamide Serum for Large Pores: How It Helps

One of the most impressive benefits of using The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is its noticeable impact on enlarged pores. Oily skin tends to stretch pores over time, making them appear larger and more visible. Niacinamide directly addresses this concern by:

• Regulating sebum production, which prevents pore-clogging buildup
• Improving skin elasticity, allowing pores to appear tighter and more refined
• Supporting the skin barrier, reducing inflammation that can contribute to pore enlargement

With consistent use, skin appears smoother, and pore visibility is significantly reduced—especially around the nose, forehead, and cheeks.

Pro Tip:

For even better results, apply an exfoliating toner containing 2% BHA (like salicylic acid) before using niacinamide. This helps to clear out debris from pores, allowing the serum to penetrate deeper and work more effectively on minimizing pore size.

The Ordinary for Acne Scars: Does It Work?

Yes—The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is an effective choice for fading acne scars and improving post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Niacinamide plays a vital role in skin cell regeneration, which helps repair damaged skin, fade dark spots, and even out skin tone over time.
When combined with Zinc PCA, the serum not only targets discoloration but also reduces active inflammation, helping to prevent new acne lesions from leaving marks. The result is clearer, smoother skin with fewer visible reminders of past breakouts.

Recommended Routine for Acne Scars

To maximize results, follow this gentle yet effective skincare routine:

1. Cleanser: CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser - Removes excess oil and impurities without disrupting the skin barrier.
2. Toner (optional): Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid -  Gently exfoliates and unclogs pores, preparing the skin for serum absorption.
3. Niacinamide Serum: The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% -  Apply 2–3 drops evenly across the face. Focus on scarred areas for targeted treatment.
4. Moisturizer: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel -  Hydrates and strengthens the skin without feeling heavy or greasy.
5. SPF (Morning only): La Roche-Posay Anthelios SPF 50 - Essential to protect healing skin and prevent acne scars from darkening due to sun exposure.

With consistent use, this routine can visibly reduce acne marks and promote a brighter, more even complexion.

The Ordinary Niacinamide vs Hyaluronic Acid: Which One Is Better?

When it comes to choosing between The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% and The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, the good news is—you don’t have to. These two powerful serums are complementary, not competitive, and when used together, they create a balanced routine especially ideal for oily, acne-prone, or dehydrated skin types.

Different Skin Needs, Different Strengths

Niacinamide excels at controlling oil, shrinking pores, and fading acne scars. If your skin struggles with excess sebum, congestion, or blemish marks, this serum should be your first choice. It also helps to strengthen the skin barrier and reduce inflammation, making it a multitasking must-have.
On the other hand, Hyaluronic Acid is a hydration hero. It pulls water into the skin and helps lock it in, preventing dry patches, flaking, and tightness. While oily skin may seem hydrated on the surface, it can still be dehydrated beneath—which is where hyaluronic acid steps in.

Texture and Layering

Both serums have lightweight textures, but niacinamide is thinner and gel-like, while hyaluronic acid feels slightly thicker and more cushiony. Because of this, it's best to apply niacinamide first, followed by hyaluronic acid. This order ensures that the niacinamide penetrates deeply to target oiliness and pigmentation, while the hyaluronic acid layers on top to seal in moisture.

How to Use Them Together

Both serums can be used morning and night. 

1. After cleansing:Apply a few drops of niacinamide to damp skin.
2. Follow up with hyaluronic acid while the skin is still slightly moist.
3. Lock everything in with a moisturizer and sunscreen in the morning.

This combination results in balanced, smooth, and radiant skin—free from excessive oil yet deeply hydrated.

Final Verdict

If you’re choosing between the two, let your skin guide you. But ideally, use niacinamide first to target acne and excess oil, then hyaluronic acid to add hydration. Together, they work in harmony to give you clear, calm, and plump skin—a perfect pairing in any skincare routine.

Recommended Products to Pair With The Ordinary Niacinamide

To maximize the benefits of niacinamide, consider pairing it with the following:

1. The Ordinary Zinc 1% (Already included)

• Balances sebum and soothes inflammation.

2. The Ordinary Retinol 0.2%/0.5% in Squalane (PM only)

• Stimulates skin turnover and enhances scar fading.

3. Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%

• Another excellent product for acne-prone skin that works synergistically with niacinamide.

4. The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution (1x/week)

• Deep exfoliation to help unclog pores and accelerate results.

How to Use The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Correctly

1. Cleanse your face.

2. Apply a hydrating toner or facial mist (optional).

3. While your face is slightly damp, apply 2-3 drops of niacinamide serum.

4. Pat gently until fully absorbed.

5. Follow with a moisturizer and broad-spectrum sunscreen (AM only).

Avoid combining with Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) in the same routine. This may reduce product efficacy.

Who Should Avoid The Ordinary Niacinamide?

Those with extremely dry or compromised skin barriers may experience irritation.

If using multiple actives like retinoids, AHAs, or Vitamin C, introduce niacinamide gradually.

Final Verdict: The Ordinary Niacinamide Review

After 90 days of use, we can confidently say that The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is one of the best serums for oily skin, especially if you're battling acne scars, large pores, and excess sebum. It delivers visible results without breaking the bank or overwhelming your skin.