# TLDR Review: The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum

*Published: 2026-01-21 | Updated: 2026-01-21 | Source: https://shopsavvy.com/reviews-tldr/the-ordinary-niacinamide-10percent-+-zinc-1percent-serum*

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## Product: The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum
**Brand:** The Ordinary

## Pros
- Absorbs quickly without leaving a sticky residue, making it comfortable for daily use.
- Noticeably smooths skin texture and helps even out complexion.
- Effectively controls oil and reduces sebum production, which helps prevent breakouts.
- Contains niacinamide and zinc that help heal skin faster and reduce pimples.
- Improves overall skin health, tightness, and hydration without causing dryness.
- Fragrance-free and gentle, suitable for sensitive, oily, and mature skin.
- Comes with a convenient dropper for easy and precise application.
- Works well when layered with moisturizers, especially in dry or cold conditions.
- Trusted brand known for consistent quality and reliable visible results.
- Can reduce pore appearance and sebaceous hyperplasia with regular use.

## Cons
- May cause initial redness, burning, or a heat sensation on first application.
- Thicker, slightly sticky texture means it’s best applied 3–4 times a week or at night.
- Users with eczema or sensitive skin are advised to dilute or consult a dermatologist before use.
- Not ideal if you want a light serum to apply multiple times daily without any texture.

## Bottom Line

If you're battling oily, blemish-prone skin and want a serum that smooths texture, controls oil, and visibly improves skin clarity, *The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%* is one of the best budget-friendly options out there. Its gentle, fragrance-free formula suits sensitive skin types—just be prepared for a possible mild initial irritation and a slightly thicker feel, especially if you have very dry or sensitive skin. For a straightforward, effective step to add to your nightly routine, this serum reliably delivers on its promises.

If you have very sensitive or eczema-prone skin, consider starting with a diluted application or consulting a dermatologist before jumping in full force.

## Pros vs Cons at a Glance

| Pros | Cons |
|------|------|
| Absorbs quickly without leaving a sticky residue, making it comfortable for daily use. | May cause initial redness, burning, or a heat sensation on first application. |
| Noticeably smooths skin texture and helps even out complexion. | Thicker, slightly sticky texture means it’s best applied 3–4 times a week or at night. |
| Effectively controls oil and reduces sebum production, which helps prevent breakouts. | Users with eczema or sensitive skin are advised to dilute or consult a dermatologist before use. |
| Contains niacinamide and zinc that help heal skin faster and reduce pimples. | Not ideal if you want a light serum to apply multiple times daily without any texture. |
| Improves overall skin health, tightness, and hydration without causing dryness. |  |
| Fragrance-free and gentle, suitable for sensitive, oily, and mature skin. |  |
| Comes with a convenient dropper for easy and precise application. |  |
| Works well when layered with moisturizers, especially in dry or cold conditions. |  |
| Trusted brand known for consistent quality and reliable visible results. |  |
| Can reduce pore appearance and sebaceous hyperplasia with regular use. |  |

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*About this review: We pulled together findings from professional and user reviews, and cross-referenced them with ShopSavvy's pricing data from thousands of retailers to give you the short version.*