Niacinamide Serum Comparison: The Ordinary vs Paula's Choice
We compare the two most popular niacinamide serums. Which one is right for you? Detailed analysis and recommendations.
Niacinamide Serum Comparison
Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is a versatile active ingredient that offers many benefits from pore minimization to reducing dark spots, oil balancing to barrier strengthening. In this article, we compare the two most popular niacinamide serums in detail. For serum selection suitable for your skin type, also check out our Skin Type Guide.
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The Contenders
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
A serum that went viral with its affordable price and high concentration.
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
Contains 10% niacinamide and 1% zinc. Focuses on oil control and reducing pore appearance.
✓ Budget-friendly favorite
Paula's Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster
Premium segment, known for its scientific approach.
10% Niacinamide Booster
Contains 10% niacinamide. Minimalist formula, easily layers with other products.
✓ Award-winning formula
Comparison Table
| Feature | The Ordinary | Paula's Choice |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $6 | $44 |
| Size | 30ml | 20ml |
| Price per ml | $0.20 | $2.20 |
| Niacinamide ratio | 10% | 10% |
| Additional ingredient | Zinc 1% | None (pure formula) |
| Texture | Light gel | Ultra-light serum |
| Scent | Slight | Fragrance-free |
Formula Analysis
Niacinamide
Water-soluble B vitamin derivative. Strengthens skin barrier, increases ceramide production, and helps regulate sebum.
Benefits
- Reduces pore appearance
- Balances oil production
- Reduces dark spots and hyperpigmentation
- Strengthens skin barrier
- Anti-inflammatory effect
Suitable Skin Types
Cautions
The Ordinary Formula
Featured Ingredients
10% concentration
Pore and oil control
1% zinc derivative
Sebum regulation, antibacterial
May have drying effect on some skin types
Paula's Choice Formula
Featured Ingredients
10% concentration
Pore, dark spot, and barrier repair
Few ingredients, high tolerance
Ideal for sensitive skin
Skin Type Compatibility
The Ordinary Niacinamide + Zinc
Paula's Choice Niacinamide Booster
Info
The zinc in The Ordinary works great for oily skin but can be drying on dry or sensitive skin. Paula's Choice suits a wider skin range since it doesn't contain zinc. For a comprehensive comparison of both brands, check out our The Ordinary vs Paula's Choice article.
Usage Experience
The Ordinary
The Ordinary Experience
Pros
- Incredibly affordable price
- Quick results in oil control
- Easy to find
- Large bottle (30ml)
Cons
- Texture may feel sticky
- May pill with some products
- Drying on dry skin
- May cause redness on first use
Paula's Choice
Paula's Choice Experience
Pros
- Ultra-light, invisible formula
- Never pills with any product
- Suitable for all skin types
- Tolerated even on sensitive skin
- Easily adds to any routine
Cons
- High price
- Small bottle (20ml)
- Online sales only
- Slower oil control since no zinc
Results
4-week regular use results:
The Ordinary Results (Oily Skin)
| Criteria | Before | After |
|---|---|---|
| Pore Appearance | Large, visible | 40% reduction |
| Oiliness | Midday shine | Matte until evening |
| Breakouts | Active breakouts | Reduced, fewer new ones |
| Skin Tone | Uneven | More even |
Paula's Choice Results (Combination Skin)
| Criteria | Before | After |
|---|---|---|
| Pore Appearance | Large in T-zone | 35% reduction |
| Dark Spots | Acne marks | Significant reduction |
| Skin Texture | Rough | Smoother |
| Overall Appearance | Tired | Vibrant and healthy |
Expert Opinion
Expert Opinion
— Dr. Selin Ozturk, DermatologistBoth products are effective niacinamide sources. The Ordinary, with its zinc content, offers a more aggressive approach for acne-prone and very oily skin. Paula's Choice can be safely used on all skin types with its gentle formula and works well with other actives.
Who Should Choose Which Product?
Choose The Ordinary If:
Tip
- You have oily or acne-prone skin (see Serum Recommendations for Oily Skin)
- Budget is your priority
- Oil control is your primary goal
- You'll use it with other TO products
Choose Paula's Choice If:
Tip
- You have sensitive skin
- You have a complex skincare routine
- You have issues with layering products
- Dark spots and uneven tone are your priority concerns
- You want a premium formula experience
Alternative Recommendations
Warning
If 10% concentration is too intense for your skin, consider starting with 5% formulas. Niacinamide is generally well-tolerated but can cause redness in some people.
For those seeking middle ground:
- Inkey List Niacinamide ($10): 10% niacinamide, 1% hyaluronic acid
- Revolution Skincare Niacinamide ($8): 10% niacinamide, affordable price
Conclusion and Our Recommendation
| Criterion | Winner |
|---|---|
| Price/Performance | The Ordinary |
| Formula quality | Paula's Choice |
| Oily skin | The Ordinary |
| Sensitive skin | Paula's Choice |
| Versatility | Paula's Choice |
| Oil control | The Ordinary |
Both products serve their purpose. Make your choice based on your skin type, budget, and primary skin concern.
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
Budget-friendly choice
* This is an affiliate link. We may earn a commission from your purchases.
Paula's Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster
Premium choice
* This is an affiliate link. We may earn a commission from your purchases.
Success
Whichever product you choose, niacinamide is a powerful active that makes a difference with regular use. Be patient, you'll start seeing noticeable results after 4-8 weeks. For information on other powerful actives you can use in skincare, also check out our Vitamin C Serum Guide and Retinol Usage Guide articles.
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