Serum Facial NC-10
Serum Facial NC-10
Product Description
A high-performance Brazilian serum combining 10% Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) and 1% Zinc PCA to effectively combat acne, control excess oil, minimize pores, and brighten uneven skin tone. This minimalist formula with only 9 ingredients delivers clinical-strength results without irritation.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Pore Minimizing
Visibly reduces the appearance of enlarged pores for smoother-looking skin texture.
Brightening Effect
Fades dark spots and hyperpigmentation while evening out overall skin tone.
Oil Control
Regulates excess sebum production to reduce shine and prevent breakouts.
Minimalist Formula
Only 9 carefully selected ingredients for maximum efficacy with minimal irritation risk.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is FDA-approved and considered completely safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone.
Free from ferments, fatty acids, esters, and polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. Safe for pityrosporum folliculitis.
Oil-free, silicone-free formula with a comedogenic rating of 0. Will not clog pores or cause breakouts.
Hypoallergenic and dermatologically tested. However, patch test recommended for very reactive skin types.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) 10% Clinically Proven
A powerhouse form of Vitamin B3 that delivers multiple skin benefits. It works at the cellular level as a precursor to NADH and NADPH cofactors, essential for dozens of biochemical skin reactions.
- Pore Reduction: Studies show visible pore minimization within 8-12 weeks of consistent use
- Oil Control: Regulates sebum production to reduce excess shine
- Brightening: Inhibits melanin transfer to lighten dark spots and hyperpigmentation
- Anti-Aging: Boosts collagen production and strengthens the skin barrier
- Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces redness and calms acne-related inflammation
β‘ Zinc PCA 1% Clinically Proven
An advanced association of Zinc and L-Pyrrolidone Carboxylic Acid (L-PCA). This combination delivers superior sebum control and antibacterial benefits compared to regular zinc.
- Sebum Regulation: Clinical studies show significant reduction in sebum production after 28 days
- Antibacterial: Strong activity against P. acnes bacteria that causes acne
- Hydration Boost: L-PCA is a natural moisturizing factor (NMF) that aids skin hydration
- Anti-Aging Potential: Research suggests it may boost Type I collagen production
𧴠Supporting Ingredients Delivery System
A carefully selected blend of solvents and penetration enhancers that maximize the delivery and efficacy of active ingredients.
- Propanediol: Plant-derived moisturizer and penetration enhancer
- Dimethyl Isosorbide: Helps dissolve and deliver actives deeper into skin
- Ethoxydiglycol: Superior solubilizer that boosts ingredient efficacy
- Xanthan Gum: Natural thickener for optimal texture
9 ingredients
Water, Xanthan Gum, Propanediol, Ethoxydiglycol, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Zinc PCA, Niacinamide, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply after water-based toners and before heavier creams. Can be used both morning and night. Always follow with SPF during the day.
π How to Use
Cleanse Your Face
Start with clean, dry skin. Remove all makeup and impurities with your favorite cleanser.
Apply the Serum
Dispense 3-4 drops onto your fingertips or directly onto your face. Avoid touching the dropper to your skin.
Gently Spread
Pat and spread the serum gently over your entire face, including the eye area. Allow it to absorb fully.
Follow with Moisturizer
Once absorbed, apply your moisturizer and sunscreen (in the morning). Use twice daily for best results.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin prone to shine
- You struggle with enlarged pores and uneven texture
- You want to fade dark spots and acne marks
- You experience frequent breakouts and blackheads
- You prefer fragrance-free, minimalist formulas
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need safe actives
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have extremely dry skin that needs heavy hydration
- You're sensitive to high concentrations of niacinamide
- You prefer a serum with additional hydrating ingredients
- You want anti-aging benefits as the primary focus
- You need immediate visible results (consistency is key)
π― Skin Type Compatibility
The perfect match! Zinc PCA and Niacinamide work synergistically to control sebum, reduce shine, and prevent breakouts without over-drying.
Balances oily T-zone while being gentle enough for drier areas. Helps normalize overall oil production.
Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties help reduce active breakouts and prevent new ones. Non-comedogenic formula won't clog pores.
Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic formula is generally well-tolerated. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Can be used but must be paired with a rich moisturizer. The lightweight formula may not provide enough hydration alone.
π Results Timeline
Initial Adjustment
Skin begins to adjust to the formula. Some may experience temporary purging as the serum accelerates cell turnover. Slight improvement in skin texture and softness.
60% noticed softer skinVisible Oil Control
Noticeable reduction in excess oil and shine. Skin feels more balanced throughout the day. Less frequent need for blotting papers.
75% reported reduced oilinessPore & Texture Improvement
Visible reduction in pore size and improved skin texture. Fewer breakouts and faster healing of existing blemishes. Skin appears smoother and more refined.
80% saw pore improvementFull Brightening Benefits
Dark spots and post-acne marks noticeably faded. More even, radiant skin tone. Maximum benefits achieved with continued consistent use.
85% achieved brighter complexionβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Effective oil control and shine reduction
- Visible pore minimization with continued use
- Ultra-minimalist formula (only 9 ingredients)
- Pregnancy and fungal acne safe
- Fragrance-free and non-irritating
- Absorbs quickly without sticky residue
- Excellent value for the concentration
- Works well under makeup
- Cruelty-free and vegan
β Criticized
- Small 30ml bottle runs out quickly
- May be too lightweight for very dry skin
- Results require 8-12 weeks of consistent use
- Limited international availability
- Some experience initial purging period
- No additional hydrating ingredients
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Nearly identical formula with same active concentrations. Slightly different texture (thicker) and includes Tamarindus Indica Seed Gum. The global cult favorite.
Same 10% niacinamide concentration without zinc. More hydrating formula with glycerin. Great for those who want niacinamide without oil-control focus.
Same niacinamide concentration plus added Vitamin C and licorice extract. More anti-aging focused with additional brightening ingredients. Higher price point.
π Comparison with Competitors
Principia NC-10 (This Product)
$25-35The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
$6.50Paula's Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster
$44.00Good Molecules Niacinamide Serum
$6.00π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. Mark the date when you first open the bottle.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required but can extend freshness.
Brown glass dropper bottle that protects formula from light degradation. Hygienic dropper application.
Yes, 30ml is under 100ml TSA limit. Glass bottle - pack carefully in cushioned bag.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, absolutely! Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is FDA-approved and considered completely safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or any other ingredients of concern. It's an excellent choice for expecting or nursing mothers who want to address acne and hyperpigmentation safely.
Yes! This serum is verified fungal acne safe by SkinSort and other ingredient analyzers. The minimalist formula is free from ferments, fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, and oils that feed Malassezia yeast. Niacinamide has even shown antimicrobial activity against yeasts, making it beneficial for fungal acne sufferers.
Niacinamide is highly compatible with most active ingredients. You can safely use it with retinol, most vitamin C forms, AHAs, and BHAs. However, for very sensitive skin, consider using niacinamide in the morning and stronger actives like retinol at night. If using pure L-ascorbic acid vitamin C, some prefer to alternate application times, though this is based on outdated research.
This serum is ideal for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The Zinc PCA specifically targets excess sebum production and acne-causing bacteria. While suitable for all skin types, those with very dry skin may find it too lightweight and should pair it with a hydrating moisturizer. Sensitive skin types generally tolerate it well due to its fragrance-free, minimal formula.
Results vary by concern: Oil control improvements are typically noticed within 2-4 weeks. Pore minimization and texture improvement usually take 6-8 weeks. Dark spot fading and significant brightening require 12+ weeks of consistent use. Most users report visibly smoother, more balanced skin within the first month.
Apply after cleansing and toning, but before heavier serums, moisturizers, and sunscreen. The order is: Cleanser β Toner β Principia NC-10 β Other Serums (if any) β Moisturizer β Sunscreen (AM). Use twice daily for best results. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly and layers well under other products.
No, this serum is non-comedogenic with a comedogenic rating of 0/5. The oil-free, silicone-free formula contains no pore-clogging ingredients. In fact, niacinamide actively helps reduce pore congestion and blackheads. It's specifically designed for acne-prone skin and will not cause breakouts.
The serum has a 12-month PAO (Period After Opening). The unopened shelf life is 36 months from manufacture date. To maximize freshness, store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The brown glass bottle helps protect the formula from light degradation. At twice-daily use, a 30ml bottle typically lasts 6-8 weeks.
Verdict: Principia NC-10 is an excellent Brazilian gem that delivers clinical-strength niacinamide and zinc benefits in an impressively minimalist formula. With only 9 ingredients, it's ideal for sensitive skin types, pregnant/breastfeeding individuals, and those with fungal acne who need a clean, effective serum. While The Ordinary offers a similar formula at a lower price, Principia's ultra-simple formulation and proven efficacy make it a worthwhile choice for those who prioritize ingredient transparency. Best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin seeking oil control, pore refinement, and brightening benefits.
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 skinβs 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 Β«promisesΒ» 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 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 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 |
Xanthan Gum
Binding Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Skin Conditioning, Surfactant -Emulsifying Agent, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Binding, Gel Forming, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Ethoxydiglycol
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Dimethyl Isosorbide
Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Viscosity Controlling
|
|