If you’ve spent any time scrolling through skincare TikTok or Reddit’s r/SkincareAddiction, chances are you’ve seen this little dropper bottle pop up repeatedly. 

The Ordinary’s Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is one of those rare skincare products that manages to be both budget-friendly and genuinely effective—a combination that’s surprisingly hard to find.

When I first heard about this serum, I was skeptical. Six dollars for visible results? It sounded too good to be true. But after seeing countless before-and-after photos and reading glowing reviews, I finally gave it a shot. And honestly? It lives up to the hype—mostly.

What Makes This Serum So Popular?

Let’s pause for a second and talk about why this particular serum keeps coming up in every skincare conversation. It’s not just the low price or minimalist design—there’s more to its cult status than meets the eye.

The Ordinary has carved a unique place in the beauty industry by focusing on ingredient transparency. No flashy packaging, no confusing claims—just straight science. This serum is a perfect example of that philosophy in action.

At its core, it’s a simple yet effective blend: 10% niacinamide (vitamin B3) and 1% zinc PCA. Together, they target excess oil, congestion, and uneven skin tone. The formula feels lightweight and sinks into the skin within seconds, leaving no sticky residue—perfect for layering under moisturizer or sunscreen.

And perhaps the most impressive part? It costs less than your average latte.

Breaking Down the Ingredients

Before we jump into how to use it and who it’s best for, it helps to understand what’s inside this little bottle. The ingredients list is short but smartly chosen—no unnecessary fillers, just active components that deliver real results.

Niacinamide (10%)

Niacinamide is like the multitasker of skincare. It helps regulate oil production, minimize pores, strengthen the skin barrier, and even fade dark spots over time. At a 10% concentration, it’s potent enough to show visible improvement without being too harsh for most skin types.

It also has calming properties that reduce redness and inflammation, making it great for anyone dealing with mild acne or post-breakout marks.

Zinc PCA (1%)

Zinc PCA complements niacinamide beautifully. It has antibacterial properties that target acne-causing bacteria while helping balance oil levels. Plus, it provides a subtle hydrating effect—something you don’t always get from oil-controlling formulas.

Together, they create a powerhouse duo for oily, combination, and blemish-prone skin.

Who It’s Best For (And Who Should Be Careful)

Before you add this to your cart, let’s talk about skin compatibility—because no single product works for everyone. Understanding whether this serum fits your skin’s needs can make all the difference in how it performs.

This serum shines for people who constantly battle shine, clogged pores, or mild breakouts. If you find your T-zone turning greasy halfway through the day, this might be your new best friend.

However, those with very dry or sensitive skin should introduce it slowly. The high concentration of niacinamide can sometimes cause temporary flushing or mild irritation, especially if layered with strong actives like AHAs or retinoids.

And if you’re already using other niacinamide products (like moisturizers or toners with similar ingredients), it might be best to simplify your routine to avoid overdoing it.

How to Use It the Right Way

Here’s where many people go wrong. Even the best serum won’t work if you don’t use it properly. Thankfully, this one is pretty easy to fit into your routine once you know the basics.

A few drops after cleansing and toning, applied gently with your fingertips, is all you need. Follow with a hydrating moisturizer to balance things out.

For morning routines, it pairs well under sunscreen. At night, it layers nicely before a heavier cream or oil (if you use one). Just remember not to mix it directly with strong vitamin C serums, as the combination can cancel out some benefits and cause temporary redness.

If you’re new to actives, start with every other day and work your way up to daily use.

Real Results and What to Expect

Now that you know how it works, what can you actually expect to see? Let’s talk results—because this serum may be small, but it’s mighty consistent when used correctly.

Most people notice less surface oil and fewer mid-day shine moments within the first few uses. After two to four weeks, pores look smaller, breakouts appear less frequent, and skin texture feels smoother.

It’s not a miracle product that transforms your skin overnight, but it’s one of the most reliable “slow and steady” performers you can add to your lineup.

And unlike many acne treatments, it doesn’t dry out your skin—just leaves it more balanced over time.

The Bottom Line

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% serum proves that great skincare doesn’t have to come with a luxury price tag. For under $10, it delivers consistent, visible results and remains one of the most repurchased products in The Ordinary’s entire lineup.

If your skin struggles with oiliness, enlarged pores, or mild breakouts, it’s absolutely worth trying. And even if it doesn’t become your holy grail, you’ll likely still appreciate how simple, accessible, and honest this little bottle is.

As part of Amazon’s skincare haul, The Ordinary’s Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% sits alongside countless other budget-friendly gems waiting to be discovered. Browse through similar serums and treatments under the same category—you might just find the perfect combination for your next skincare upgrade.