Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

The Ordinary

Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

LumiRise Editorial Pick

Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is one of The Ordinary’s best-known water-based serums. LumiRise features it as a straightforward option for readers who want to understand niacinamide before expanding a routine — not as a cure-all, and not as a first step for every skin type.

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At a glance

Format
Water-based serum
Key ingredients
Niacinamide 10%, zinc PCA 1%
Typical use
Often applied after cleansing, before heavier creams
Texture notes
Lightweight fluid; some formulas can feel slightly dry as they set
Brand
The Ordinary

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Why It's Worth Exploring

  • Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 widely discussed for supporting barrier comfort and the look of uneven tone over time.
  • The addition of zinc is commonly associated with formulas aimed at oilier-feeling skin.
  • The plain packaging and clear percentage labeling make it easier to compare with other niacinamide products.

Ingredient Breakdown

Verified key ingredients and the role each is generally understood to play. Percentages are taken from the product label; this is not an independent laboratory analysis.

Niacinamide (vitamin B3) 10%
Supports the skin barrier and is discussed for moderating the appearance of excess oil and uneven tone over time. Note: published research commonly uses 2–5%; 10% is on the higher end and may flush sensitive skin.
Zinc PCA 1%
A mineral compound often included in formulas aimed at oilier-feeling skin.

Who May Consider It

Readers whose main questions are shine, the look of enlarged pores, or uneven tone — and whose barrier is already stable. Not a first product for reactive or compromised skin.

Our Editorial Perspective

We feature this first because it is one of the most forgiving actives to introduce. It earns its place through tolerance and consistency, not drama. This is an editorial product overview, not a firsthand review — we have not independently lab-tested it.

Until a product has been personally tested by our editors, we describe these pages as editorial product overviews, not firsthand reviews.

How It May Fit Into a Routine

A general educational sequence only. Skincare needs vary. Follow the manufacturer's directions and consider professional advice for persistent or concerning issues.

  1. 01Cleanse
  2. 02Optional water-based treatments (such as this serum), if tolerated
  3. 03Moisturizer
  4. 04Sunscreen in the morning

Things to Consider

  • Higher percentages of niacinamide can feel warming or reactive on some skins; patch testing is sensible.
  • It is not a substitute for prescription care when breakouts are painful, cystic, or persistent.
  • Layering many actives at once makes it harder to tell what is helping or irritating.
  • Always follow the manufacturer’s directions on the product label and packaging.

LumiRise Living is an independent lifestyle publication. Product names and packaging belong to their respective owners. For official manufacturer information, visit theordinary.com.

Last reviewed: April 2026

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