The Ordinary | Clinical Formulations with Integrity

Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%: What It Does for Oily Skin

Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%: What It Does for Oily Skin

By The Ordinary | Clinical Formulations with Integrity | Published: 2026-10-13

Category: Product Reviews

A straight-talking FAQ on how Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% fits an oily, blemish-prone routine: what it does, how to layer it, and when to use it.

Quick answer

Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is a water-based serum for blemish-prone skin. It supports smoother texture and a more even-looking complexion while zinc helps address the look of shine. Use a few drops after cleansing, before heavier creams, once or twice daily.

What does niacinamide actually do for oily skin?

Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3. In this serum, it is paired with zinc to target two things oily skin often deals with: uneven-looking texture and excess shine. The formula is designed to smooth, brighten, and support the look of skin, not to strip it. That matters because harsh cleansing can trigger more oil, while niacinamide works with your skin barrier rather than against it.

How do I use Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% in a routine?

Apply after cleansing and before heavier creams or oils. A few drops are enough for the whole face; if you are new to it, start once daily and build up. It layers well under sunscreen in the morning and under a moisturizer at night. If your skin is sensitive, introduce it every other day first.

Can I use it with other actives?

Yes, but keep an eye on total irritation. Niacinamide is generally compatible with acids, retinoids, and vitamin C, though some people prefer to alternate strong actives rather than stack them all at once. If you are already using an exfoliating acid, you can use niacinamide in the same routine or on alternate days. The goal is consistency without redness or stinging.

How long until I see a difference in shine and texture?

Niacinamide is not an overnight fix. Most people notice a gradual change in how shiny their skin looks and how smooth it feels over a few weeks of regular use. It is a support ingredient, not a spot treatment, so give it time and keep the rest of your routine gentle and steady.

Is this the right serum for blemish-prone skin?

It is formulated specifically for blemish-prone skin, so it is a reasonable starting point if your main concerns are shine, uneven tone, and rough texture. If your skin is very dry or easily irritated, you may prefer a lower-strength niacinamide product or use this one less often. It is not a replacement for a prescription acne treatment if you have moderate to severe breakouts.

Oily-skin routine checkpoints

Where does it go in my routine?
After cleansing, before moisturizer and sunscreen. A few drops for the whole face. If you use an exfoliating acid, apply it first and let it dry, then follow with niacinamide.
How often should I use it?
Once or twice daily is typical for oily skin. Start once daily if you are new to niacinamide. If you notice stinging or redness, reduce to every other day.
What if my skin is also dry or sensitive?
This 10% formula may be too much for some sensitive skin types. You can buffer it with a moisturizer or use it less often. Dryness is a sign to scale back, not to add more products.

Product facts

  • Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%: Contains 10% niacinamide and 1% zinc, and is designed for blemish-prone skin. The 10% niacinamide level is high enough to support texture and tone, while zinc is included to help with the look of shine—useful if oiliness is your main concern.
  • Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%: Helps smooth skin texture and supports a brighter, more even-looking complexion. These are the visible payoffs you can track over time, rather than an instant mattifying effect.

Shop Related Products

Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

$4.55 $6.60

Shop Now