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The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Brightening & Smoothing Serum for Blemish-Prone Skin, 30ml

12 reviews analysed · 1 sources · Last verified: 01 Mar 2026 · Price data: 23 Feb 2026 · Confidence: 20% · Reviewed by Bart, Health & Tech Enthusiast
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Brightening & Smoothing Serum for Blemish-Prone Skin, 30ml
84
Overall Score
Very Good

Compare Prices

Amazon UK
£5.00 View →
Verdict: Very Good 🥈 #2 in Hyaluronic Acid Serums View Hyaluronic Acid Serums Rankings →

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is a minimal, evidence-backed water-based serum combining two well-researched actives at clinically relevant concentrations. Best for oily and combination skin and blemish-prone and acne-prone skin.

According to the AIScored 0–100 scoring system, The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Brightening & Smoothing Serum for Blemish-Prone Skin, 30ml scores 84.0/100, ranking #2 out of 29 products in Hyaluronic Acid Serums (2026). Strongest category: Value For Money (96.0/100). Weakest: Skin Compatibility (74.0/100).

Data quality note: this page currently has limited evidence coverage (low review/source volume or lower confidence). Treat this as directional and cross-check with primary sources.

Is The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Z... worth buying?

“The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% scores 84/100 because its 10% niacinamide concentration genuinely controls excess oil and minimises pores. It's fragrance and alcohol-free, non-irritating for most skin, and absorbs quickly under moisturiser and SPF without any sticky feeling.”

— AIScored Editorial Team, Mar 2026

What Do Reviewers Say About The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Brightening & Smoothing Serum for Blemish-Prone Skin, 30ml?

Sample excerpts from currently available source material used in this product analysis.

"Llevo 2 meses usando el producto y mi rostro se ve y siente mucho mejor. Tengo piel de mixta a grasa, por lo que se me resecaba mucho en la frente, costados de la nariz y barbilla. También tenía muchas marcas de acné. Usando esta niacinamid..."

Amazon • Emma Georgina Valles Santillán • 20 Feb 2026

"Even though this product had so many amazing reviews, I honestly didn’t think it would work for my skin. I’ve never really struggled with acne before, but over the past three months my skin has randomly been the worst it’s ever been. I trie..."

Amazon • BellaFearn • 12 Feb 2026

"I can see why this serum is so popular. After a few weeks of using it, my skin looks clearer, smoother and more balanced. Redness has reduced, my pores look less noticeable, and I’ve had fewer breakouts. The texture is lightweight and sinks..."

Amazon • Alex in bloom • 09 Feb 2026

"Helped me a lot with my pores, they look much smaller. I using it twice per day, I have combined -oily skin, so it work really good for me. Got one more for my boyfriend, he has more dry combined skin, also works great for him but he uses m..."

Amazon • llllloooppp • 08 Feb 2026

"I've been using The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% for a while now, and it has honestly become a must-have for my daily routine. What I love most is how it keeps my skin's oil in check-I've noticed my forehead is less shiny, giving me m..."

Amazon • MT/CT • 08 Feb 2026

How does The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1... score?

Detailed score breakdown and key findings from our analysis of 12 reviews across 1 source.

Effectiveness Delivers claimed results based on reviews and ingredient evidence
83.0/100
Good
Ingredient Quality INCI formulation, active concentration, no unnecessary irritants
85.0/100
Good
Skin Compatibility Gentleness, non-comedogenic, minimal irritation reports
74.0/100
Good
Texture & UX Absorption, finish, layering compatibility, packaging
88.0/100
Good
Value for Money Price per ml relative to quality and concentration
96.0/100
Excellent
Overall Score Weighted overall recommendation
84.0/100
Good

Pros

  • +Clinically effective 10% niacinamide concentration with strong review-backed results for oil control, pore minimizing, and blemish reduction
  • +Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, non-comedogenic formulation — low irritant risk for most skin types
  • +Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture layers seamlessly under moisturizer and SPF
  • +Exceptional value for money — high-performance actives at a very low price point
  • +Suitable for diverse skin tones including melanin-rich and sensitive skin when introduced gradually

Cons

  • -Less beneficial for dry skin types — primary actives target sebum regulation rather than hydration
  • -10% niacinamide may cause transient flushing or tingling in very sensitive skin during initial use
  • -Contains Isoceteth-20 (PEG-derived emulsifier) which may be a concern for those avoiding ethoxylated ingredients
  • -Minimal moisturising support — requires a hydrating layer on top for complete routine balance

Best For

oily and combination skin blemish-prone and acne-prone skin enlarged pores and uneven texture post-acne hyperpigmentation and dark spots budget-conscious skincare routines

Watch Out

  • !Dry skin types may see limited benefit and should layer with a richer moisturiser
  • !Sensitive skin: introduce gradually (once daily) to avoid initial flushing or irritation
  • !Not a standalone treatment for severe or cystic acne — best as a supportive step
  • !Avoid layering with vitamin C (ascorbic acid) at the same time — may reduce efficacy of both actives

What is The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Brightening & Smoothing Serum for Blemish-Prone Skin, 30ml?

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Brightening & Smoothing Serum for Blemish-Prone Skin, 30ml is a hyaluronic acid serums product, scoring 84.0/100 on AIScored.

  • The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Brightening & Smoothing Serum for Blemish-Prone Skin, 30ml.

How We Score Supplements

Our methodology analyses review data, ingredient science, and product information, then scores each product on a 0-100 scale across evidence-based categories:

1

Effectiveness

How well the product delivers its claimed benefits, based on reviews and ingredient evidence.

2

Ingredient Quality

Bioavailable forms, clinically effective dosages, clean label, minimal fillers.

3

Value for Money

Price relative to ingredient quality, dosage count, and effectiveness.

4

Side Effects Profile

Higher score = fewer side effects. 100 means virtually no adverse reactions reported.

5

Certifications & Testing

Third-party lab testing, GMP certification, and independent quality verification.

6

Overall Score

Weighted combination of all factors. Our bottom-line recommendation.

Price History (90 days)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Brightening & Smoothing Serum for Blemish-Prone Skin, 30ml worth buying in 2026?
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Brightening & Smoothing Serum for Blemish-Prone Skin, 30ml scores 84.0/100 in our analysis, based on 12 reviews. The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is a minimal, evidence-backed water-based serum combining two well-researched actives at clinically relevant concentrations. The 10% niacinamide addresses sebum regulation, pore appearance, uneven tone, and blem...
What is the best price for The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Brightening & Smoothing Serum for Blemish-Prone Skin, 30ml in the UK?
The best price we found is £5.00 at Amazon UK. We compare prices from 1 UK retailer and update them regularly.
What are the pros and cons of The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Brightening & Smoothing Serum for Blemish-Prone Skin, 30ml?
Pros: Clinically effective 10% niacinamide concentration with strong review-backed results for oil control, pore minimizing, and blemish reduction. Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, non-comedogenic formulation — low irritant risk for most skin types. Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture layers seamlessly under moisturizer and SPF. Cons: Less beneficial for dry skin types — primary actives target sebum regulation rather than hydration. 10% niacinamide may cause transient flushing or tingling in very sensitive skin during initial use. Contains Isoceteth-20 (PEG-derived emulsifier) which may be a concern for those avoiding ethoxylated ingredients.

Disclaimer: AIScored provides research-backed summaries based on publicly available reviews and product information. This is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Affiliate links may earn us a commission at no extra cost to you.

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