Really helps in reducing oily skin and acne issues I was struggling with oily skin and acne and this one is my best partner in defeating these - especially after I stopped taking the contraception pills and my skin got the worse it has ever been! My skin is not oily anymore after using this products and before it got super oily in the end of the day. The acne thing still goes on but it's not that dramatic as it used to be definitely. I mean the serum helps A LOT, but it takes time and the hormones always affect the skin. But I've been looking for sooo long for a long-term working options in fighting against acne and not destroying my skin and this is the best product I found so far! So I really recommend this serum (I already am on my second jar). It also evens my skin tone - the acne scars (I don't have deep scars so I don't know how it works for these) are less colored and seem to be more like my skin tone! Which is also a big benefit and nothing worked like this on my dark spots. I have to say that it took a month to see a visible improvement - like after first week I saw a big improvement (the skin is not oily since then, the acne production was reduced) but then it stoped in the phase it was in and it took three weeks or a month till it started doing something again, but now I can see an improvement everyday. I'll post some pics for you guys to see the results and make your own opinion:
Please Expanded & Share Knowledge I heard amazing things about this product and did some digging into all the great benefits niacinamide and zinc have for the skin, and it seemed like it would help target my main skin concerns!
I was aware of the possibility that I may experience purging and that some people can have allergic reactions but it's incredibly rare to the point where many dermatologists will assume its not an allergy to niacinamide, rather another ingredient present in the product that the person reacted to. I knew niacinamide was meant to help with the skin barrier as well as brightening and texture improvement, all things I struggle with. I did a bit more digging and noticed that the tested amounts shown to be effective and safe for the skin range between 2-5%. To be clear, I'm not saying 10% is bad or dangerous, it's just not as tried and true as that 2-5% range that's been studied many times.
Like all new products, I did a 48 hour patch test on my arm as directed by The Ordinary's guidelines, and had no issues. Before starting my routine I used their (very helpful!) resource for when and how often to use specific products and to only introduce one new product at a time to prevent irritation/negative effects.
What I'm a little upset about, is the lack of easily accessible information about how this product can cause irritation (among other negative effects) for people with non-oily skin. After about a week of use (3 drops for face and neck), my cheeks became hard like rough leather... I also felt a burning sensation after each use, but really wanted to give it a chance and went back to the basics (cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen) and I still had issues and my skin continued to harden and dry up. I was frustrated and confused because I couldn't find answers as to why I was having such a strange reaction anytime I used this product. Eventually, after much digging, I discovered that this should not be used by those with dry skin, especially at such a high concentration of 10%.
I still stand by niacinamide and zinc as skincare ingredients, they are excellent for your skins health and have really helped many people in their skincare journey. This can be a great option for those struggling with acne prone skin and textural irregularities (if you have an oilier skin type).
I'm here because I don't want other people with similar skin types to mine to buy this and feel lost or confused if they have a bad reaction. It's not that your skin is being ridiculous or difficult, it just may be that the concentration is too high, or that niacinamide may not be something you use as an active/solo-ingredient in your daily/weekly skincare routine.
I challenge The Ordinary to include a section under this product outlining that if you have dry skin, that this product may cause issues, or better yet, offer a niacinamide product formulated for people with dry and/or sensitive skin to increase inclusivity.
All in all, I hope whoever chooses to read this lengthy review, that you feel more informed and empowered to make a confident decision for yourself. By no means do I dislike The Ordinary, I LOVE all the other products I have from them! I just wish I had been advised about the potential issues if you don't have more of an oily/combo skin type.
cleared my skin ! 5
2022-07-02
I stopped using the product for a while, but I now use it every night and it has cleared up my skin so much! I use it before a heavy moisturizer. I've seen such a difference in the past few weeks, have even got some compliments on glowy skin!
Improved my skin texture in weeks 5
2022-07-01
This has become my holy grail product. I have struggled to find the right combination of skin care to control my combination skin and persistent black heads/texture. This has been the answer!! I used it once or twice a day, and I saw visible results in 4-5 weeks. GAME. CHANGER.
The only "bad" thing is that it's a bit sticky after application, but I actually like it, and it goes away after moisturizer.
Niacinamide serum 5
2022-06-30
I really like this light weight serium. I use it on my face and decollitage area.
Love! 5
2022-06-30
I'm not sure if it's just this product or this combined with the rest of my skin care routine (which Includes hyaluronic acid and an exfoliant mast both from The Ordinary) but I've noticed my products blending well, my breakout cleared up quickly, and my skin just looks better. Even without make up. Hoping it fades some of the discoloration in my skin. I will say I don't feel like it's done anything for the oiliness but I will update if that changes. For reference I am 43, combo to oily skin, and prone to breakouts.
I love this product i will buy it again 5
2022-06-29
I love how it controls my sebum! And love the price, too! Definitely will buy this again and again.
