My bathroom sink looked like I’d exfoliated with a cheap sweater. Flakes everywhere.
The real issue? It’s not the serum—it’s what you put on before it. Layer wrong and this stuff turns to eraser shavings.
The Ordinary’s 10% Niacinamide + 1% Zinc Serum. $6.80. The internet claims it pills like crazy. I had to see if the formula was guilty.
Price
Shockingly cheap for the concentration.
Packaging
Glass dropper — feels clinical, not luxurious.
Claim
Oil control and clarity. No mention of potential flakiness.
Photo: Lora Seis / Unsplash
It’s a no-frills, high-dose formula. 10% Niacinamide is a serious dose for pores and pigmentation. The 1% Zinc is for oil.
That’s it. No soothing agents to cushion the blow.
- Niacinamide (10%): Tackles excess oil & uneven tone
- Zinc PCA (1%): Mattifies & regulates sebum
- Tamarinind Seed Extract: A natural polymer (the pilling suspect)
- Water: Simple base
Photo: Poko Skincare / Unsplash
Watery, slightly sticky. Absorbs in 15 seconds leaving a taut, matte finish. Not hydrating at all.
Surprise: Used alone on damp skin? Zero pilling. The moment I layered a rich moisturizer over it — disaster. It’s a texture snob.
Photo: Fleur Kaan / Unsplash
My midday shine vanished by day 4. One stubborn chin breakout calmed faster. Zero brightening for my old sun spots, though.
Photo: Laura Chouette / Unsplash
The pilling is a user error, but the formula is unforgiving. It’s a brilliant, bratty product that works if you follow its rules.