You have that bottle. The one that fixed your shine by noon. But it’s sitting there, waiting for its one job.
It’s time to hack it. This serum is the multitasker you’re underusing — and for $6, that’s a crime.
It’s The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%. $6.90. I bought it because the internet screamed about pores. I stayed for the hacks.
Pre-Makeup Primer
Smooths texture so foundation doesn’t catch on dry patches.
Chest & Back Spot Treatment
Dots onto breakouts overnight — the zinc dries them out fast.
Scalp Tamer
Massage a drop into your scalp pre-shampoo to calm oiliness.
Photo: Clarissa Watson / Unsplash
It’s not magic, it’s chemistry. A high dose of niacinamide paired with zinc. No fragrance, no fluff.
- Niacinamide 10%: regulates oil, strengthens barrier
- Zinc PCA 1%: anti-inflammatory, controls sebum
- Tamarinus Indica Seed Gum: the slip you feel
- Pentylene Glycol: humectant that pulls in water
Sticky for 8 seconds. Then it’s gone — absorbs like a ghost. Leaves a velvety, almost matte finish.
Week 2: My t-zone was noticeably calmer. Surprise? It pills like crazy if you rub it. You have to pat.
My pores? Visibly tighter. Redness? Down. It did nothing for my deep hormonal cysts — that’s not its job.
It’s a brilliant, boring workhorse. Not a miracle, but a solid 80% solution for five different problems.