Niacinamide Zinc Serum
Niacinamide Zinc Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, fast-absorbing gel serum with 10% Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) and 1% Zinc PCA to control excess sebum, minimize enlarged pores, brighten dull complexion, and smooth skin texture. Enriched with Centella Asiatica and Arnica Montana extracts for calming, anti-inflammatory benefits. Suitable for sensitive skin.
Sebum Control
Zinc PCA at 1% concentration is clinically shown to reduce sebum production after 28 days. Keeps oily skin balanced and shine-free throughout the day.
Texture & feel
SENSORYSebum Control
Zinc PCA at 1% concentration is clinically shown to reduce sebum production after 28 days. Keeps oily skin balanced and shine-free throughout the day.
Brightening & Even Tone
10% Niacinamide inhibits melanin transfer to skin cells, gradually fading dark spots, post-acne marks, and hyperpigmentation for a more even complexion.
Pore Minimizing
High-concentration niacinamide helps restore skin elasticity around pores, visibly tightening and reducing the appearance of enlarged pores over time.
Barrier Strengthening
Niacinamide boosts ceramide synthesis, reinforcing the skin's natural moisture barrier. Centella Asiatica extract provides additional soothing and repair benefits.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Free from fermented ingredients, fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, and oils that feed Malassezia yeast. Safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
Comedogenic rating of 1/5. Contains no pore-clogging oils or heavy emollients. Water-based gel formula is unlikely to clog pores.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and silicone-free formula. Centella Asiatica and Arnica extracts provide anti-inflammatory soothing. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
High-concentration niacinamide (10%) may reduce the efficacy of pure Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid) when used together. Apply them at different times (AM/PM) for best results.
Niacinamide pairs well with retinol (may reduce retinol irritation) and can be layered with AHA/BHA exfoliants. Wait 5-10 minutes between applications.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSNiacinamide (Vitamin B3) 10%Proven
A powerhouse vitamin with extensive clinical evidence for multiple skin benefits. At 10% concentration, it targets oil control, brightening, pore reduction, anti-aging, and barrier repair simultaneously.
- Sebum Control: Reduces sebum production and visibly controls oiliness at concentrations of 4% and above.
- Brightening: Inhibits melanosome transfer to keratinocytes, fading dark spots and evening skin tone.
- Barrier Repair: Increases ceramide and fatty acid synthesis, strengthening the skin's moisture barrier.
- Anti-Aging: Stimulates collagen production, smooths fine lines and wrinkles at 4-5% concentration.
Zinc PCA 1%Proven
A synergistic combination of zinc and L-pyrrolidone carboxylic acid (L-PCA). The zinc helps normalize sebum production and limit acne-causing bacteria, while L-PCA (a natural moisturizing factor) enhances hydration and boosts zinc bioavailability.
- In-vivo Study: 1% Zinc PCA statistically significantly reduced sebum production after 28 days of application.
- Antimicrobial: Strong in-vitro activity against P. acnes bacteria at 0.1-0.25% concentration.
- Collagen Support: 2011 research suggests Zinc PCA may promote type I collagen production (in-vitro).
Centella Asiatica ExtractProven
A legendary soothing botanical widely used in K-beauty. Known for its wound-healing, anti-inflammatory, and barrier-supporting properties. Helps calm redness and irritation while supporting skin repair.
- Active Compounds: Contains asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid, and madecassic acid.
- Clinical Evidence: Promotes collagen synthesis and reduces inflammation in multiple peer-reviewed studies.
Arnica Montana Flower ExtractPromising
A traditional botanical extract known for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. Helps reduce redness and supports skin recovery from irritation and environmental stress.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Contains helenalin and flavonoids that help calm skin inflammation.
- Soothing: Traditionally used to reduce bruising and swelling; provides calming effects in topical skincare.
GlycerinProven
A skin-identical humectant that draws moisture into the upper layers of the skin. It also helps maintain the skin's lipid barrier in a healthy state and protects against irritation. Comedogenicity: 0.
- Hydration: Effective at concentrations as low as 3%, with increased benefits at higher levels for dry skin.
- Barrier Support: Helps keep intercellular lipids in a liquid crystal state for optimal barrier function.
14 ingredients
Water, Niacinamide (10%), Pentylene Glycol, Glycerin, Zinc PCA (1%), Xanthan Gum, Ethoxydiglycol, C12-14 Pareth-12, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin, Centella Asiatica Extract, Arnica Montana Flower Extract, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse morning and evening. Apply after toner and before moisturizer. If using Vitamin C, apply at alternate times (e.g., Vitamin C at night, this serum in the morning).
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Tone
Start with a gentle cleanser and follow with your toner. Pat your skin dry or leave it slightly damp for better absorption.
Apply 2-3 Drops
Using the dropper, dispense 2-3 drops of serum onto your fingertips or directly onto the face. A small amount goes a long way due to the high concentration.
Gently Pat & Massage
Gently tap and press the serum into your skin using your fingertips. Focus on areas of concern like the T-zone, pores, and dark spots. Avoid rubbing.
Follow With Moisturizer
Wait 30-60 seconds for the serum to absorb, then layer your moisturizer to seal in the active ingredients. In the morning, always finish with sunscreen.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You struggle with oily, shiny skin and enlarged pores
- You want to fade dark spots, acne marks, or hyperpigmentation
- You need a lightweight, non-greasy serum for acne-prone skin
- You prefer a minimal, clean ingredient list with proven actives
- You want a pregnancy-safe and fungal acne-safe brightening serum
- You are looking for an affordable K-beauty niacinamide alternative
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry skin and need rich, heavy hydration
- You need deep wrinkle treatment (consider retinol instead)
- You are sensitive to niacinamide at higher concentrations (try 5% first)
- You want a larger bottle size (this is 30ml only)
- You need additional actives like hyaluronic acid or peptides in one product
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThis serum was designed for you. Zinc PCA controls sebum, niacinamide minimizes pores, and the oil-free gel formula absorbs instantly without adding any shine.
Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe, and antibacterial. Zinc PCA fights P. acnes bacteria while niacinamide fades post-acne marks and reduces inflammation.
Balances oil production in the T-zone without stripping dry areas. Lightweight formula layers easily and does not feel heavy on any zone of the face.
Fragrance-free and gentle with soothing Centella and Arnica extracts. However, 10% niacinamide may be too strong for very reactive skin — start slowly and patch test first.
Provides basic hydration via glycerin and humectants, but lacks rich emollients. Dry skin types should follow with a heavier moisturizer or facial oil to seal in hydration.
Results timeline
WEEK 8-12Improved Skin Texture & Reduced Shine
Skin starts feeling smoother to the touch. Noticeable reduction in oiliness and shine, especially in the T-zone. Pores may appear slightly less visible. Some users report a brighter look within days.
65% noticed improvementsVisible Pore Minimizing & Sebum Balance
Zinc PCA reaches peak sebum-control efficacy at 28 days. Pores appear visibly tighter and less congested. Skin tone starts to look more even with early fading of dark spots.
75% noticed improvementsBrightening & Dark Spot Fading
Cumulative niacinamide benefits become clearly visible. Post-acne marks and hyperpigmentation begin to fade significantly. Overall complexion appears brighter and more radiant.
82% noticed improvementsFull Results — Strengthened Barrier & Clear Skin
Maximum benefits achieved with consistent use. Skin barrier is noticeably stronger, breakouts are reduced, pores are minimized, and skin tone is significantly more even and luminous.
90% noticed improvementsRatings by platform
689+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effective oil control and visible pore reduction within 2-4 weeks
- Clean, minimal 14-ingredient formula with no filler ingredients
- Pregnancy safe, fungal acne safe, and non-comedogenic
- Affordable K-beauty alternative to Western niacinamide serums
- Fragrance-free and gentle enough for sensitive skin
- Noticeable brightening and fading of acne marks over time
- Lightweight gel absorbs quickly without greasy residue
Criticized
- Small 30ml size runs out quickly with twice-daily use
- Gel texture may feel slightly tacky before fully absorbing
- 10% niacinamide may be too strong for very sensitive skin
- No hyaluronic acid or peptides for extra anti-aging benefits
- Dark spot fading requires patience (4-8 weeks for visible results)
- Less widely available than competitor brands like The Ordinary
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Nearly identical active concentrations (10% Niacinamide, 1% Zinc PCA). Uses Tamarindus Indica Seed Gum instead of Centella/Arnica botanicals. Slightly more viscous texture. More widely available worldwide.
Same 10% niacinamide but adds Matmarine (marine biotechnological extract) for enhanced sebum control. Contains Hyaluronic Acid and Allantoin. More complex formula with 20+ ingredients. Made in India.
Same active concentrations in a larger 60ml bottle. Simpler formula without Centella or Arnica botanicals. Slightly more watery consistency. Good value for money at double the size.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of the reach of children.
Glass bottle with dropper pipette for precise, hygienic application
Yes, 30ml is well under the 100ml carry-on liquid limit
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This serum contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, benzoyl peroxide, or chemical sunscreen filters. All 14 ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) and Zinc PCA are both well-tolerated and widely approved for use by expectant and nursing mothers. As always, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
Yes. This formula is free from fermented ingredients, fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, and oils that are known to feed Malassezia yeast. The ingredient list has been cross-referenced with fungal acne-safe databases and contains no triggers. It is one of the few niacinamide serums that is both effective and completely fungal acne safe.
Niacinamide pairs well with retinol — it can actually help reduce retinol-related irritation and dryness. It also works alongside AHA and BHA exfoliants; just wait 5-10 minutes between products. For pure Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid), use at separate times (e.g., Vitamin C in the evening, niacinamide in the morning) as they may reduce each other's effectiveness when applied simultaneously. Vitamin C derivatives like Ascorbyl Glucoside are fine to layer with niacinamide.
This serum is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The Zinc PCA targets excess sebum production while niacinamide minimizes pores and brightens skin tone. It is also suitable for sensitive skin (fragrance-free, alcohol-free), though those with very reactive skin should start with every-other-day use. Dry skin types can use it but should follow with a rich moisturizer.
Most users notice reduced oiliness and improved texture within the first 1-2 weeks. Visible pore minimizing and sebum control peaks at around 4 weeks (clinically supported by Zinc PCA studies at 28 days). Brightening and dark spot fading typically become noticeable at 4-8 weeks, with full results at 8-12 weeks of consistent twice-daily use.
Apply after cleansing and toning, before your moisturizer. The general rule is thinnest to thickest: cleanser, toner, this serum, then moisturizer, and sunscreen in the morning. Use 2-3 drops morning and evening. If you use multiple serums, apply this one first as it has a lightweight water-based gel texture.
No. This serum has a comedogenic rating of 1/5 (very low). It is completely oil-free and contains no known pore-clogging ingredients. In fact, niacinamide and zinc PCA actively help unclog pores by reducing sebum production and normalizing skin cell turnover. It is safe for acne-prone and congested skin.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The glass bottle with dropper helps protect the formula from light degradation. With typical twice-daily use (2-3 drops per application), a 30ml bottle lasts approximately 2-3 months.
Verdict: CARE:NEL Niacinamide Zinc Serum is a well-formulated, no-nonsense K-beauty serum that delivers clinically proven actives (10% Niacinamide + 1% Zinc PCA) in an impressively clean 14-ingredient formula. It excels at oil control, pore minimizing, and gradual brightening — especially for oily and acne-prone skin. The addition of Centella Asiatica and Arnica extracts gives it an edge over comparable Western formulas. While the 30ml size is small and it lacks extra actives like hyaluronic acid, the affordable price point and pregnancy/fungal acne-safe profile make it a strong contender in the niacinamide serum category. Best for anyone who wants proven results from a minimal, transparent ingredient list.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 2 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Pentylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Zinc
Antioxidant
|
Ache-fighting
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
|