Reviewed by Younghun Cho
Pharmacist's Verdict
This is a highly effective and incredibly affordable serum for controlling oil, minimizing the look of pores, and reducing blemishes, making it a star product for anyone with oily or combination skin.
Ingredient Analysis
Niacinamide (10%)
Zinc PCA (1%)
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Excellent value for the price, making effective skincare accessible.
- Noticeably reduces oil production and shine.
- Helps calm redness and improve the appearance of blemishes.
- Strengthens the skin's natural protective barrier over time.
- Simple, fragrance-free formula is suitable for many skin types.
Cons
- The 10% concentration can be irritating for sensitive skin or first-time users, causing redness or flushing.
- Can sometimes pill or feel slightly sticky when layered with other skincare or makeup.
- Should not be used in the same routine as direct Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid), as it can reduce its effectiveness.
- While helpful for blemishes, it is not a primary treatment for moderate to severe acne.
References
- 1.FDA Drug Label — Dove
FDA DailyMed: Dove · FDA
- 2.Niacinamide: a review on dermal delivery strategies and clinical evidence.
Ong RR, Goh CF, Drug delivery and translational research, 2024 · PubMed
- 3.Niacinamide - mechanisms of action and its topical use in dermatology.
Wohlrab J, Kreft D, Skin pharmacology and physiology, 2014 · PubMed
- 4.Regulation of and challenges in targeting NAD(+) metabolism.
Migaud ME, Ziegler M, Baur JA, Nature reviews. Molecular cell biology, 2024 · PubMed
- 5.Cosmeceutical Aptitudes of Niacinamide: A Review.
Madaan P, Sikka P, Malik DS, Recent advances in anti-infective drug discovery, 2021 · PubMed
- 6.What is really known about the effects of nicotinamide riboside supplementation in humans.
Damgaard MV, Treebak JT, Science advances, 2023 · PubMed