Ingredient sourcing note: Some ingredients mentioned in this article are available from The Skin Science Company (theskinsciencecompany.com.au), an Australian cosmetic raw materials supplier. We recommend them based on the quality and availability of their products. We have no commercial, affiliate, or sponsorship relationship with them and receive no payment or commission for these mentions.
I’ve always been a DIY enthusiast, especially when it comes to skincare. But every now and then, I wonder if the products you buy on the shelf actually outperform what you can whip up at home.
So, I decided to put a popular store-bought niacinamide serum head-to-head against my own DIY version. Here’s what I found — the pros, the cons, and which one might be best for your skin and lifestyle.
The Contenders: What’s in the Ring?
Store-Bought Serum: The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
Affordable, widely loved, and backed by solid reviews. Comes pre-mixed with zinc to help balance oil production.
DIY Serum: My homemade 5% niacinamide serum with distilled water and preservative
Full control over ingredients and concentration. Freshly mixed with minimal additives.
Texture and Absorption: Which Feels Better?
The Ordinary’s serum is ultra-light and watery, absorbing almost instantly without stickiness. My DIY serum feels slightly thicker but still smooth and non-greasy — more like a gel than water.
Both absorb well, but if you prefer a super light feel, the store-bought might edge out here.
Skin Reaction: How Did My Skin Respond?
I used each serum for one week on opposite sides of my face. After a few days, both sides felt calmer, less red, and more balanced.
The store-bought side showed slightly quicker pore refinement, likely thanks to the zinc. However, my DIY side maintained moisture better, probably because I could add a touch of glycerin for extra hydration.
No irritation or breakouts on either side, which is always a win.
Cost and Convenience: DIY vs. Store-Bought
Making your own serum costs less per batch and lets you tweak your formula. However, it takes time to mix, measure, and preserve properly.
Store-bought serums save time and are travel-friendly but can add up if you buy regularly.
Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Choose?
Choose DIY if: You love experimenting, want full ingredient control, and enjoy the satisfaction of making your own products. Choose store-bought if: You want convenience, consistent texture, and a product ready to go out of the box.
Both options are excellent, and many DIYers keep a store-bought serum as a reliable backup.
Want to Try Making Your Own?
Check out our step-by-step DIY Niacinamide Serum recipe to get started. It’s easier than you think!
What About You?
Have you tried making your own skincare or stuck to trusted brands? Share your experiences in the comments or tag us on social!
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