Can I use The Ordinary Niacinamide twice a day?

Should I start with twice a day?

If you are new to niacinamide, start slowly rather than immediately adding two daily applications. General niacinamide guidance allows once or twice daily after gentle cleansing. If twice daily use causes excessive dryness, reduce to once daily or every other day. That frequency adjustment is general guidance for topical niacinamide, not a separate direction printed for this serum. Check your other products too: niacinamide can already be present in cleansers, moisturizers and sunscreens, so avoid adding several products containing it at once.23

Where does the serum go in my routine?

1. 1Cleanse your skin.
2. 2Apply any toner or essence you use. If you use The Ordinary Multi Active Delivery Essence, apply it after cleansing and toning, before the niacinamide serum.
3. 3Apply Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% before oils and heavier moisturizers. Follow your bottle's directions for the amount rather than applying extra.
4. 4Follow with your moisturizer. Niacinamide itself does not work as sunscreen or prevent sunburn.

The optional essence is an extra prep step, not an admission ticket for the serum. The pairing is intended to improve niacinamide delivery and support smoother, more hydrated, brighter looking skin.4

What if my skin is sensitive?

Start with a lower concentration if your skin is sensitive. Niacinamide is generally gentle, but itching, mild burning, redness and allergic reactions can occur. The Ordinary positions the 10% serum for oily and blemish prone skin; its Niacinamide 5% Face and Body Emulsion is a different product formulated for sensitive skin. A lower strength is a more cautious starting choice than assuming a higher percentage will suit sensitive skin.12

What should I expect, and how long does it take?

The serum targets excess shine and the appearance of pores, rather than giving pores an eviction notice. Niacinamide can help pores look less noticeable, but nothing has been proven to reduce their actual size. Allow four to eight weeks of consistent daily use to assess visible results. Hydration and texture can improve within a few weeks; dark spots and fine lines can take longer. The Ordinary reports improvements within seven days for the serum paired with Multi Active Delivery Essence, which is a result for that combination rather than a deadline for the serum alone.124

Can I use it with my other actives?

The Ordinary allows niacinamide alongside hyaluronic acid, retinol and exfoliating acids. The brand advises against using it with direct vitamin C, also called L ascorbic acid, in the same routine. If you use direct vitamin C at night, keep this serum in the morning rather than forcing twice daily use.1

How do I test it before using it on my face?

Apply your usual amount to a small spot on the underside of your arm or the bend of your elbow twice daily for seven to 10 days. Choose somewhere the serum will not be rubbed or washed away, and leave it on as you normally would. If there is no redness, itching or swelling during that period, you can begin using it on your face.6

When should I stop using it?

Stop using the serum if it stings, burns or tingles. If you develop a reaction, gently wash it off and do not use it again. A cool compress or petroleum jelly can help relieve irritated skin. See a dermatologist if the reaction is severe and those measures do not relieve it. If a prescribed product causes these sensations, ask your dermatologist whether they are expected before stopping that prescription.56