How to Use The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%: A Simple Routine

Quick answer: The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is a water-based serum. Apply a few drops to clean, unbroken skin in the morning or evening, then follow with moisturizer. Patch test before first use. The brand recommends keeping this formula and vitamin C products in separate routines.

What does Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% do?

Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3. In this formula, The Ordinary pairs 10% niacinamide with zinc PCA to address the appearance of excess oil, visible pores, dullness and uneven texture. The serum is water-based and suitable for all skin types according to the manufacturer. It is a cosmetic serum, not a treatment for acne or another medical condition.

People with oily or combination skin may be especially interested in its oil-control benefits. A person with dry skin can also use it, but should follow with a moisturizer suited to their skin. Results differ from person to person, so avoid expecting an overnight change in skin tone or pore appearance.

How to use it: a simple routine

1. Cleanse: Wash your face gently and let your skin dry.
2. Apply serum: Put a few drops on your face, avoiding the eyes and irritated or broken skin.
3. Moisturize: Follow with a moisturizer after the serum.
4. Protect in the morning: Finish your daytime routine with sunscreen.

The Ordinary advises application in both morning and evening routines. If you are new to a concentrated serum, start at a frequency your skin tolerates and introduce other new products one at a time. Use the product only as directed. If irritation occurs, rinse it off, stop using it and consult a physician.

Where does it go in a skincare routine?

Apply the water-based niacinamide serum after cleansing and before heavier creams. A simple morning routine is cleanser → niacinamide serum → moisturizer → sunscreen. An evening routine is cleanser → niacinamide serum → moisturizer. You do not need a long routine to use this product.

If you use other serums, see our guide to layering The Ordinary products. The order and compatibility of products depend on their specific formulas, so check the directions for every product rather than assuming all ingredients can be mixed.

Can you use niacinamide with vitamin C?

For this particular The Ordinary formula, the brand recommends using niacinamide and vitamin C in separate routines. For example, use one in the morning and the other in the evening if both products suit your skin. This is product-specific guidance; it does not mean every niacinamide and vitamin C formulation is incompatible.

Read our Niacinamide vs Vitamin C guide for a closer comparison.

Patch testing and common mistakes

Patch test before applying a new product across your face. The Ordinary recommends testing a small amount on a clean area of the upper forearm and watching for redness, burning, itching, blistering or other irritation. Do not use the product if irritation appears. Keep it away from children and avoid application to broken skin.

• Using too much: A few drops are enough; more product does not guarantee better results.
• Starting several actives together: Introducing products one at a time makes it easier to notice what your skin tolerates.
• Skipping moisturizer or sunscreen: Keep the rest of your routine simple and supportive.
• Expecting a pore treatment: The product aims to reduce the appearance of pores; it cannot permanently change their size.

Frequently asked questions

Is Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% for oily skin only?

No. The Ordinary lists it as suitable for all skin types, although its oil-control benefits may appeal particularly to people with oily or combination skin.

Should I use it in the morning or at night?

The manufacturer recommends a few drops in both morning and evening routines. Adjust your routine to your skin's tolerance and follow the product label.

Can I apply it to irritated skin?

Use only on unbroken skin. If irritation occurs, rinse the product off, stop using it and seek medical advice if needed.

How long does it take to work?

Changes in the appearance of oiliness, texture or pores vary. Use the product consistently as directed and assess your skin over time rather than relying on a fixed promised result.

Shop the serum in Pakistan

See the current price, availability, photographs and full product details for The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% 30ml on our store. Always check the packaging and directions that arrive with your product.