Pore Minimizing 21 Serum
Pore Minimizing 21 Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A high-potency pore-refining serum with 20% Niacinamide and 1% Zinc PCA that controls excess sebum, tightens enlarged pores, and brightens darkened pores for a smoother, glass-skin complexion in as little as 21 days.
Excessive Sebum Control
20% Niacinamide and 1% Zinc PCA work together to regulate oil production, transforming oily skin into a clear, soft complexion.
Texture & feel
SENSORYExcessive Sebum Control
20% Niacinamide and 1% Zinc PCA work together to regulate oil production, transforming oily skin into a clear, soft complexion.
Enlarged Pore Tightening
Promotes tension of sagging pores and visibly reduces the appearance of stretched, enlarged pores over 21 days of consistent use.
Dark Pore Brightening
Brightens darkened pores caused by pigmentation and oxidized sebum, restoring a crystal-clear complexion.
Natural BHA Exfoliation
Willow Bark Water provides gentle, natural salicin-based exfoliation that removes dead skin cells and impurities for a glassy skin texture.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Water, a natural source of salicin related to salicylic acid. While topical willow bark is generally considered low-risk, consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Contains Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate and Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, which are esters that may feed malassezia yeast. Not recommended for fungal acne-prone skin.
Oil-free formula with a comedogenic rating of 1/5. Unlikely to clog pores. All key ingredients score 0–1 on the comedogenic scale.
At 20%, this is a very high concentration. Patch test before first use and gradually introduce it into your routine (start 2–3 times per week) to avoid irritation, redness, or dryness.
Free from alcohol, fragrance, parabens, sulfates, silicones, and common allergens. Only 12 ingredients for a minimal, transparent formula.
Always apply SPF when using this serum in the morning. Niacinamide enhances radiance but does not provide UV protection.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSNiacinamide (Vitamin B3) 20%Proven
A multi-functional skincare superstar and the hero ingredient of this serum. At 20%, this is one of the highest concentrations available in any commercial product, delivering powerful pore-refining, brightening, and oil-regulating benefits.
- Pore Reduction: Studies show 4–5% niacinamide visibly reduces pore appearance; 20% intensifies this effect.
- Sebum Control: Clinically proven to normalize sebum production, reducing oiliness and shine.
- Brightening: Inhibits melanosome transfer to fade dark spots and even out skin tone.
- Barrier Strength: Increases ceramide synthesis, strengthening the skin barrier and improving hydration.
Zinc PCA 1%Proven
A synergistic combination of zinc and L-pyrrolidone carboxylic acid (L-PCA). Zinc regulates sebum while L-PCA hydrates and enhances zinc's bioavailability in the skin.
- Sebum Reduction: In-vivo testing at 1% concentration showed statistically significant sebum reduction after 28 days.
- Antimicrobial: In-vitro studies demonstrate strong activity against P. acnes bacteria (effective at 0.1–0.25%).
- Anti-Aging: Research suggests Zinc PCA may promote type I collagen production for firmer skin.
Salix Alba (Willow) Bark WaterPromising
Distilled from white willow bark, this ingredient contains natural salicin — often called a natural BHA cousin. It provides gentle exfoliation and has astringent properties that help tighten skin and reduce pore appearance.
- Natural Exfoliation: Salicin provides mild exfoliating action to clear dead skin cells and impurities.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Decreases inflammatory mediators like TNF-α and NF-κB for soothing effects.
- Astringent: Helps tighten skin by drawing water, reducing the appearance of enlarged pores.
Sodium HyaluronateProven
The sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid with a smaller molecular size for better skin penetration. Acts as a powerful humectant that can bind up to 1,000 times its weight in water.
- Hydration: Provides deep moisture to counterbalance the drying potential of high-concentration niacinamide.
- Plumping: Helps skin appear more supple and reduces the look of fine lines.
AllantoinProven
A soothing and moisturizing agent that calms skin irritation, promotes healing, and brightens the complexion. Commonly included in products with strong actives to buffer potential irritation.
- Soothing: Reduces redness and irritation from the high niacinamide concentration.
- Wound Healing: Studies show allantoin promotes cell regeneration at higher concentrations.
12 ingredients
Water, Niacinamide, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Zinc PCA, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Water, Sodium Hyaluronate, Allantoin, Glycerin, Ethyl Hexanediol, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after toner on clean skin. Use AM and/or PM. Always follow with SPF in the morning. Start 2–3 times per week, then increase to daily use as your skin adjusts.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Tone
Start with a clean face. Apply your toner and let it absorb fully before moving to the next step.
Apply Serum
Using the dropper, dispense 3–4 drops directly onto your face. Drop the serum onto skin rather than your fingertips for better distribution.
Pat & Absorb
Gently pat the serum into your skin with your fingertips. Allow 30–60 seconds for full absorption before the next step. Avoid rubbing.
Moisturize & Protect
Follow with a lightweight moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with SPF 30+ sunscreen. A light moisturizer helps prevent the potential white cast from high niacinamide.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have enlarged, visible pores you want to minimize
- Your skin is oily and you struggle with excess sebum and shine
- You want to brighten darkened pores and improve overall skin tone
- You prefer a minimal, clean ingredient list without fragrances
- You have experience with niacinamide and want a more potent formula
- You want a lightweight, oil-free serum that layers well under makeup
Consider alternatives if:
- Your skin is very dry and needs rich hydration (this serum can be drying)
- You have fungal acne (malassezia) — this formula is not FA-safe
- You have never used niacinamide before (start with a lower concentration like 5–10%)
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult your doctor first due to willow bark)
- Your skin is extremely sensitive or reactive to high-concentration actives
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThis serum was designed for oily skin. The 20% Niacinamide + 1% Zinc PCA combo powerfully regulates sebum, reducing shine and blotting throughout the day.
Balances T-zone oiliness without over-drying cheeks. Apply a lightweight moisturizer on drier areas for optimal balance.
Oil-free, non-comedogenic formula with antimicrobial Zinc PCA. Helps reduce breakouts by controlling sebum and bacteria. A game-changer for acne-prone skin.
Works well for pore refinement and brightening. The 20% concentration may be more than normal skin needs — consider using every other day.
The high niacinamide concentration can be drying. If you have dry skin, use sparingly and always pair with a hydrating moisturizer. A lower-concentration niacinamide may be more suitable.
Fragrance-free and minimal formula is a plus, but 20% niacinamide can cause tingling or irritation on sensitive skin. Patch test is essential. Start slowly.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Immediate Sebum Reduction
Noticeable decrease in oiliness and shine, especially in the T-zone. Skin feels less greasy by afternoon. Some users report visible pore reduction after just 2 days.
70% noticed less oilSmoother Texture & Less Shine
Skin texture begins to improve. Fewer blotting sessions needed throughout the day. Minor breakouts may subside. Some users experience initial purging that settles with continued use.
60% noticed smoother skinVisible Pore Minimization
The brand's clinical tests show visible skin complexion improvement at the 21-day mark. Pores appear tighter, sebaceous filaments are less visible, and overall skin tone is brighter and more even.
75% noticed smaller poresLong-Term Brightening & Clarity
Continued use deepens results: dark pore discoloration fades significantly, skin barrier is strengthened, and the glass-skin effect becomes more pronounced. Blackheads and sebaceous filaments are noticeably reduced.
80% reported clearer complexionRatings by platform
930+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Visible pore reduction in as little as 2–3 weeks
- Significantly controls oil and shine, even in hot weather
- Clean, minimal 12-ingredient formula with no fragrances
- Brightens overall complexion and fades dark pore spots
- Lightweight, layers well under makeup and sunscreen
- Bottle lasts approximately 3 months with daily use
- Affordable price point for a high-potency niacinamide serum
Criticized
- 20% niacinamide can irritate sensitive skin or first-time users
- May leave a white cast or film if overapplied
- Can feel slightly sticky before fully absorbing
- Not hydrating enough for dry skin types on its own
- Small 40ml bottle size — some wish it were larger
- Niacinamide sediment can settle in the bottle neck
- Not fungal acne (malassezia) safe
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Half the niacinamide concentration (10% vs 20%) with the same 1% Zinc PCA. Much more affordable. Simpler formula that can pill under makeup. A great starting point for niacinamide beginners, but less potent for stubborn pore issues.
15% niacinamide concentration — midway between The Ordinary and TIA'M. Smaller 20ml bottle. Focuses more on discoloration and blemishes. Lacks Zinc PCA and willow bark that make TIA'M stronger for pore tightening and sebum control.
10% niacinamide in a gentle, hydrating base. Better tolerated by sensitive skin. No zinc or willow bark, so less effective for sebum control and pore tightening. A good option if 20% feels too strong.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store away from direct sunlight in a cool, dry place. Niacinamide sediment may settle at the bottle neck due to the high concentration — this is normal and safe to use.
Glass bottle with precision dropper for controlled dispensing
Yes — 40ml is under the 100ml carry-on limit. Glass bottle, so pack carefully.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. This serum contains Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Water, a natural source of salicin that is chemically related to salicylic acid. While topical willow bark at this concentration is generally considered low-risk, there is limited data on its safety during pregnancy. The formula does not contain retinoids, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. We recommend consulting your OB-GYN or dermatologist before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
No, this serum is not considered fungal acne safe. It contains Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate and Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, which are esters that can potentially feed malassezia yeast and worsen fungal acne. If you are prone to fungal acne, look for alternatives that are specifically formulated without these types of esters, such as products verified on fungal acne-safe ingredient databases.
Niacinamide is generally compatible with most actives, including retinol and BHA. However, at 20% concentration, layering it with other strong actives (like high-concentration vitamin C, AHA, or BHA) in the same routine may cause irritation. Best practice: use niacinamide in one routine (AM) and your retinol or acids in the other (PM). If using both together, apply the thinner product first and wait a few minutes between layers. Always listen to your skin.
This serum is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The high-concentration niacinamide and zinc PCA powerfully control sebum production and tighten pores. It also works well for normal skin seeking pore refinement. Those with dry or very sensitive skin should approach with caution — the 20% niacinamide can be drying and potentially irritating. A lower-concentration product (5–10%) may be a better starting point.
Many users report reduced oiliness and shine within the first 2–3 days. Visible pore tightening and smoother texture typically become noticeable around the 21-day mark — which is the basis for the product's name. Long-term brightening and dark pore fading continue to improve over 2–3 months of consistent use. Individual results vary based on skin type and application frequency.
Apply this serum after cleansing and toning, before your moisturizer. In a typical routine: Cleanser → Toner → TIA'M Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM). It can be used in both morning and evening routines. The brand recommends starting with 2–3 applications per week and gradually increasing to daily use as your skin adjusts to the 20% niacinamide concentration.
This serum has a very low comedogenic rating of 1/5 and is unlikely to clog pores. The formula is oil-free, and key ingredients like niacinamide (0), glycerin (0), and sodium hyaluronate (0) all score zero on the comedogenic scale. It is specifically designed to minimize pores, not clog them. However, overuse or applying too much product can leave residue on the skin surface.
The serum has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. The 40ml bottle typically lasts approximately 3 months with daily use (3–4 drops per application). Store it away from direct sunlight in a cool, dry place. You may notice niacinamide sediment settling at the bottle neck due to the high 20% concentration — this is completely normal and does not affect the product's efficacy or safety. Shake gently before use if needed.
Verdict: The TIA'M Pore Minimizing 21 Serum is a powerful, no-nonsense Korean serum that delivers on its pore-minimizing promise. With 20% niacinamide and 1% Zinc PCA in a clean 12-ingredient formula, it offers serious sebum control, visible pore tightening, and a brighter complexion — typically within 21 days. It's an excellent value for oily and combination skin types looking for a high-potency niacinamide treatment. The main caveats: it's not fungal acne safe, the 20% concentration can be too strong for sensitive or niacinamide-naive skin, and some users find it slightly sticky or drying. Start slow, pair with a good moisturizer, and this serum will likely earn a permanent spot in your routine.
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 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 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 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Zinc PCA
|
Ache-fighting
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
|