My chin erupted after three days. Tiny, angry whiteheads—the exact opposite of what I wanted.
Here’s the truth: Niacinamide doesn’t cause purging. Purging only happens with actives that increase cell turnover, like retinoids. This was likely irritation.
It’s The Ordinary’s Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%. $6.80. The claim? Clearer, balanced skin. I was skeptical.
Texture
Water-based serum—feels like slightly sticky water.
Concentration
10% niacinamide is high. Most brands use 2-5%.
Pairing
They say don’t mix it with pure Vitamin C. I listened.
Photo: Chandra Oh / Unsplash
Two main players. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) tackles oil and redness. Zinc PCA helps with sebum regulation. That’s it.
- Niacinamide 10%: Reduces appearance of blemishes & congestion
- Zinc PCA 1%: Helps regulate oil production
- Tamarinus Indica Seed Gum: The texture agent—that’s the stickiness
- Pentylene Glycol: A humectant and preservative booster
Photo: Laura Chouette / Unsplash
Pills like crazy if you layer it wrong. Absorbs in 15 seconds, leaves a faint, tight film.
By week two, the initial breakout calmed. My t-zone was less of an oil slick by noon—a genuine shock.
Oil production? Slashed. Major blemishes? Still got a few. Pore appearance? Slightly smoother. It’s a support act, not a miracle.
Not a purger, but a potential irritant. Start slow. It’s a brilliant budget buy for shine control, but temper your clearing-a-complexion expectations.