Review · Minimalist
Minimalist 10% Niacinamide Serum Review: Oil Control on a Budget
We used Minimalist's 10% niacinamide serum daily for six weeks on oily, acne-marked skin. Here is how it scores on results, texture, value and formula.
By The RealSkinCare Lab · Updated 8 October 2026 · ₹599* at time of testing
What works
- Visible reduction in afternoon shine within three weeks
- Lightweight, absorbs in under a minute, no stickiness
- Fragrance-free with a short, transparent ingredient list
- Excellent value per ml
What doesn't
- 10% may cause brief flushing on very sensitive skin
- Can pill if layered under heavy silicone sunscreens
- Marks fade slowly, as with any niacinamide
Niacinamide is the best first active for most people, and Minimalist’s serum is one of the most affordable ways to try it. We used it every morning for six weeks on oily, combination skin with brown post-acne marks.
Results
By week three, forehead and nose shine at 3 pm was visibly lower. By week six, older post-acne marks had lightened modestly. That is a realistic timeline: niacinamide is steady, not dramatic.
Texture
A watery serum that spreads easily and sinks in quickly. Under a gel moisturiser and matte sunscreen it did not pill, though a heavy silicone sunscreen caused slight balling once.
Who should buy it
Oily, combination and acne-prone skin, and anyone starting their first active. Read the full niacinamide guide.
Reviewed product
Minimalist
10% Niacinamide Face Serum
oilycombinationacne-pronenormal