The Ordinary Niacinamide Smoothing Serum Review
When it comes to skincare, few products have generated as much buzz as The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Smoothing Serum. Touted as a multitasking powerhouse for addressing blemishes, improving skin texture, and balancing oil production, it has become a staple for skincare aficionados and newbies alike. But does it live up to the hype? Spoiler alert: Yes, and here’s why.
What’s in the Bottle?
First things first, let’s break down the formula. Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is the star ingredient, and at a generous 10%, it’s formulated to tackle everything from enlarged pores to uneven skin tone. Zinc 1%, its trusty sidekick, is known for its anti-inflammatory and oil-regulating properties. Together, they’re like the Batman and Robin of skincare—a dynamic duo that’s ready to save your skin from dullness and breakouts.
But what makes this serum stand out is its simplicity. True to The Ordinary’s ethos, it’s free from unnecessary frills and fragrances, making it a great option for sensitive skin types. It’s also vegan, cruelty-free, and wallet-friendly, priced at an accessible $6-$10 depending on where you shop.
First Impressions
The serum itself is a lightweight, water-based gel that glides effortlessly onto the skin. The consistency isn’t overly sticky, but it does have a slight tackiness that dissipates as it absorbs. Pro tip: Apply it to damp skin for better absorption and to avoid that dreaded pilling effect when layering other products.
A few drops go a long way. I typically use about three drops for my entire face, patting it gently into my skin. It sinks in quickly, leaving a semi-matte finish that works well under makeup or sunscreen. And speaking of layering, it plays nicely with other actives—though you’ll want to avoid combining it with strong acids or vitamin C in the same routine to prevent potential irritation.
The Results
Now, let’s get to the good stuff—the results. I’ve been using The Ordinary’s Niacinamide + Zinc serum consistently for six months, and here’s what I’ve noticed:
1. Oil Control
As someone with an oil-prone T-zone that could rival a freshly glazed donut, this serum has been a game-changer. After about two weeks of daily use, I noticed a significant reduction in midday shine. My skin felt balanced rather than stripped, and the oil-control effects seemed to improve the longer I used it.
2. Blemish Reduction
If you struggle with hormonal breakouts or the occasional stress-induced spot (who doesn’t?), this serum is your new best friend. While it won’t magically erase cystic acne overnight, it does a stellar job of calming redness and reducing the size of active breakouts. Over time, it has also helped minimize the appearance of post-acne marks, leaving my skin looking smoother and more even.
3. Smaller-Looking Pores
Let’s be real: you can’t actually shrink your pores, but you can make them look less noticeable. Thanks to niacinamide’s ability to regulate sebum production and improve skin elasticity, my pores appear less prominent. It’s not an overnight transformation, but with consistent use, the difference is undeniable.
4. Improved Skin Texture
This is where the serum truly shines. My skin feels softer, smoother, and more refined—as if I’ve been religiously exfoliating without actually doing so. For anyone dealing with rough patches or uneven skin texture, this serum is a must-try.
Who Is It For?
The beauty of The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is its versatility. It’s suitable for most skin types, from oily to combination to dry. That said, if you have very dry or sensitive skin, you may want to start with a lower concentration of niacinamide to avoid potential irritation. And for those with severe acne, consider using it alongside treatments like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid (just not in the same routine).
Tips
Use it consistently: Like with any skincare product, patience is key. Use it once or twice daily after cleansing and before moisturizing for best results.
Pair it with hydrating products: Niacinamide works beautifully alongside hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid to boost your skin’s moisture levels.
Don’t overdo it: While tempting, slathering on extra serum won’t speed up results and could lead to pilling or irritation. Stick to a few drops per application.
Wear sunscreen: Always finish your morning routine with SPF. Niacinamide can enhance your skin’s resilience to environmental stressors, but sunscreen is non-negotiable for long-term skin health.
Final Thoughts
So, is The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% worth adding to your skincare arsenal? Absolutely. It’s effective, affordable, and straightforward—a rare trifecta in the world of beauty products. Whether you’re battling breakouts, struggling with oily skin, or simply looking to improve your skin’s overall texture, this serum delivers on its promises.
That said, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. If you have extremely sensitive or reactive skin, patch-test first and proceed with caution. And while it’s great for maintaining healthy skin, it’s not a substitute for targeted acne treatments or professional-grade products for severe skin concerns.
FAQs
1. Can I use this serum every day?
Yes! It’s gentle enough for daily use. Start with once a day and build up to twice daily if your skin tolerates it well.
2. Will it work for dry skin?
Absolutely, but pair it with a good moisturizer to ensure your skin stays hydrated. Niacinamide can help strengthen your skin barrier, which is especially beneficial for dry skin.
3. Can I use it with retinol?
Yes, niacinamide and retinol are a fantastic duo. Apply the niacinamide first to help reduce irritation and boost the efficacy of your retinol.
4. How long before I see results?
Most users notice improvements within two to four weeks, but for significant changes, give it at least eight to twelve weeks of consistent use.