The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% ingredients, decoded

01 · Key ingredients

• Niacinamideskin-conditioning ingredient

  well-supported

  Niacinamide is near the top of the list. It is used in skincare to support the skin barrier and improve the appearance of uneven tone. Full receipt ›

• Zinc PCAskin-conditioning ingredient

  limited evidence

  Zinc PCA is near the top of the list, after niacinamide and Pentylene Glycol. It is used in skincare formulas aimed at managing visible oiliness, though evidence for topical benefits is limited.

• Pentylene Glycolhumectant and solvent

  well-supported

  Pentylene Glycol is near the top of the list. It helps attract water and can also support the formula's texture and preservation.

• Tamarindus Indica Seed Gumtexture agent

  insufficient evidence

  This gum is in the middle of the list and helps give the serum body. Its specific skincare benefits beyond its formula role are not established here.

• Dimethyl Isosorbidesolvent

  insufficient evidence

  Dimethyl Isosorbide is in the middle of the list and helps dissolve or carry other ingredients in a formula. The list does not show what role it plays for a particular ingredient here.

• Phenoxyethanolpreservative

  well-supported

  Phenoxyethanol is near the end of the list and helps limit microbial growth in the product. It can irritate some people, especially at higher exposures.

Questions people ask

What does niacinamide do in this serum?

Niacinamide is used in skincare to support the skin barrier and improve the appearance of uneven tone. It appears near the top of this ingredient list.

Does this ingredient list contain fragrance?

No fragrance or essential oils are listed. The formula does include preservatives, including Phenoxyethanol and Chlorphenesin.

Is Zinc PCA the same as zinc?

Zinc PCA is a zinc-containing ingredient used in skincare. The ingredient list does not state its concentration, so the 1% in the product name should not be read as a stated Zinc PCA percentage.