Is The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Safe?
Generic: Niacinamide
Generally yes, The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is safe for most people when used as directed. It's a well-tolerated ingredient known for improving skin texture and reducing blemishes. However, its high concentration can sometimes cause mild irritation, especially for individuals with very sensitive skin.
Who Should Avoid or Consult First
- Individuals with extremely sensitive or easily irritated skin
- Those who have previously reacted poorly to high concentrations of niacinamide
Common Side Effects
- Mild redness or flushing — especially when first introduced to the skin
- Itching or tingling sensation — typically mild and temporary
- Breakouts (purging) — some users may experience initial breakouts as skin adjusts
Interactions to Watch For
People Also Ask
Is The Ordinary Niacinamide safe during pregnancy?
Yes, niacinamide is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It's a form of Vitamin B3 and is not known to cause harm when applied topically. Always discuss any new skincare products with your doctor if you have concerns.
Can I use Niacinamide with Vitamin C?
Yes, you can use niacinamide with Vitamin C. While older research suggested potential issues, modern formulations of both ingredients are stable and can be used together effectively. If you have sensitive skin, consider applying them at different times of day or waiting a few minutes between applications.
Can I use Niacinamide with retinol or AHAs?
Yes, niacinamide pairs well with retinol and AHAs/BHAs. Niacinamide can help soothe the skin and reduce potential irritation or redness often associated with these stronger actives, making them more tolerable. Apply niacinamide before or after, depending on product consistency.
Is this serum good for sensitive skin?
While niacinamide itself can be beneficial for skin, the 10% concentration in this serum might be too high for very sensitive skin types, potentially causing irritation. If you have sensitive skin, start with a patch test or consider a lower concentration niacinamide product.
Can I use Niacinamide 10% every day?
Yes, you can typically use The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% daily, both morning and night, if your skin tolerates it well. Start with once a day to assess your skin's reaction, then increase frequency as desired.
Bottom Line
For most individuals, The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is a safe and effective serum for improving skin texture and managing oiliness. If you have sensitive skin, introduce it slowly or consider a lower concentration to avoid irritation.
References
- 1.FDA Drug Label — Dove
FDA DailyMed: Dove · FDA
- 2.FDA Drug Label — Attitude Diaper Cream Zinc Unscented
FDA DailyMed: Attitude Diaper Cream Zinc Unscented · FDA
- 3.Niacinamide: a review on dermal delivery strategies and clinical evidence.
Ong RR, Goh CF, Drug delivery and translational research, 2024 · PubMed
- 4.Niacinamide - mechanisms of action and its topical use in dermatology.
Wohlrab J, Kreft D, Skin pharmacology and physiology, 2014 · PubMed
- 5.Regulation of and challenges in targeting NAD(+) metabolism.
Migaud ME, Ziegler M, Baur JA, Nature reviews. Molecular cell biology, 2024 · PubMed
- 6.Cosmeceutical Aptitudes of Niacinamide: A Review.
Madaan P, Sikka P, Malik DS, Recent advances in anti-infective drug discovery, 2021 · PubMed
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See full review of The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%Educational content based on FDA labeling, published research, and pharmacist review. Not a substitute for individualized medical advice.