The Ordinary‘s Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is one of the brand’s most recognized products. It’s also one of the most “duped” – meaning a lot of other brands make a very similar formula. If you’re looking for dupes for The Ordinary Niacinamide, here’s what’s genuinely comparable. Additionally, here’s why you might choose one over another.
What Makes This Serum Worth Duping
Niacinamide is a well-studied, water-soluble form of vitamin B3 commonly used to help with the appearance of oil regulation, pore size, and mild inflammation. Meanwhile, zinc is often included alongside it for its role in supporting oil balance and calming skin. Because both ingredients are common and inexpensive to source, a large number of brands have released their own version at a similar concentration.
The Inkey List Niacinamide Serum
The Inkey List’s niacinamide formula is frequently compared directly against The Ordinary‘s version, since both target the same core benefits.
How it compares: Generally considered very close in formulation approach. The Inkey List is often praised for a slightly more refined texture. On the other hand, The Ordinary’s version is typically the more budget-friendly option per ounce.
Good Molecules Niacinamide Serum
How it compares: Good Molecules tends to formulate on the gentler end. This makes it a solid option if The Ordinary’s version felt too strong or caused any tingling or sensitivity.
Naturium Niacinamide Serum 12% + Zinc 2%
Naturium’s Niacinamide Serum is one of the brand’s most well-known products. It offers a slightly higher concentration than The Ordinary’s original formula.
How it compares: This is a good option if you’ve already used The Ordinary’s version without irritation. Furthermore, you may want to try a slightly higher concentration in a more cosmetically elegant formula.
Q+A Niacinamide Toner
Q+A’s Niacinamide Daily Toner has been identified as one of the closer ingredient matches to niacinamide-focused formulas from other budget brands like Naturium.
How it compares: This is a toner format rather than a serum. Therefore, it’s a lighter-weight option if you want niacinamide’s benefits without adding another full serum step to your routine.
The Inkey List Polyhydroxy Acid (PHA) Toner (with Niacinamide)
This product has also been noted as a strong ingredient match against other niacinamide-focused formulas. It combines niacinamide with a gentle PHA exfoliant.
How it compares: A good option if you want mild exfoliation and niacinamide’s oil-balancing benefits combined into a single step.
How to Choose Between These Options
- Want the closest, most direct comparison? The Inkey List’s Niacinamide Serum is generally considered the closest match to The Ordinary’s original formula.
- Want something gentler? Good Molecules is a solid choice if The Ordinary’s version felt too strong.
- Want a stronger concentration? Naturium’s version steps up the percentage while keeping a similar overall approach.
- Want a lighter, toner-based option instead of a serum? Q+A or The Inkey List’s PHA toner both work niacinamide into a lighter step.
How to Patch Test a New Niacinamide Product
- Apply a small amount to your inner forearm or behind your ear
- Wait 24-48 hours before applying to your face
- Watch for redness, itching, or unusual tingling beyond a brief, mild sensation
- If irritation occurs, discontinue and consider a lower-concentration formula
Frequently Asked Questions
Are niacinamide dupes really as effective as The Ordinary‘s version? Since niacinamide is a well-studied, standardized ingredient, formulas at similar concentrations from other brands generally perform comparably. Differences often come down to texture, additional supporting ingredients, and how your individual skin responds.
Can I switch directly from The Ordinary’s Niacinamide to a dupe without issue? In most cases, yes, since the core active ingredient and concentration are similar. However, if switching to a higher-concentration version (like Naturium’s 12%), it’s worth patch testing first. This is especially important if you have sensitive skin.
Why do some niacinamide serums cost more than others despite similar ingredients? Price differences often reflect formulation refinements (texture, added soothing ingredients, packaging), brand positioning, and manufacturing costs. Rather than differences in the core active ingredient’s effectiveness.
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