Expert Score8.4
COSRX•product
COSRX The Niacinamide 15 Serum
Fragrance-free 15% niacinamide and zinc PCA serum that minimizes pores and cuts sebum by 50% in four weeks, in a 20ml dropper bottle
Expert Rating
8.4/10
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The Analysis
Quick Specs
Price$25
Ease Of UseApply two to three drops from the precision dropper to cleansed skin before moisturizer; no tools or waiting time required
Bottle Size20
Skin TextureUltra-lightweight gel serum; absorbs within 10 seconds leaving a matte-smooth surface with no tackiness
Expert Review Summary
COSRX launched The Niacinamide 15 Serum in August 2022 as part of its RX DermSerum collection, targeting oily and acne-prone skin with clinical directness. At 15% niacinamide paired with zinc PCA and N-acetylglucosamine, the formula addresses sebum overproduction, enlarged pores, and post-acne discoloration through three complementary pathways. Allantoin adds mild soothing support. The serum is free from artificial fragrance, parabens, and silicones, and COSRX reported a 50% sebum reduction after four weeks in internal testing.
The gel texture absorbs in under ten seconds and stacks cleanly under hyaluronic acid layers and SPF. At 25 USD for 20ml, it delivers roughly 60 days of daily use at two to three drops per application, making it one of the strongest value-per-active options in the K-beauty pore-control segment. Best suited for oily, combination, and blemish-prone skin seeking measurable results without overspending.
Technical Specifications
Price$25
Ease Of UseApply two to three drops from the precision dropper to cleansed skin before moisturizer; no tools or waiting time required
Bottle Size20
Skin TextureUltra-lightweight gel serum; absorbs within 10 seconds leaving a matte-smooth surface with no tackiness
Sebum Control9
Fragrance Free Yes
Gentle Formula No
Pigment Fading7
Value For Money9
Hydration Level5
Non Comedogenic Yes
Pore Refinement9
Brand ReputationCOSRX is one of the most globally trusted K-beauty brands, recognized for clinical-grade active percentages, transparent formulation, and consistent bestsellers at accessible prices
Calming Efficacy4
Retinol EfficacyNone; retinoid-free formula focused on niacinamide-driven sebum reduction and pore refinement
Clinical Evidence Yes
Peptide ComplexityNone; single-active formula focused exclusively on niacinamide and zinc PCA for sebum and pore control
Firming Performance3
Niacinamide Percent15
Centella Cica Content No
Pdrn Or Exosome Content No
Ceramide Barrier Repair No
Hypoallergenic Testing No
Layering CompatibilityStep-two serum after cleansing; pairs cleanly under hyaluronic acid treatments and SPF without pilling
Azelaic Or Transexamic Acid No
Niacinamide Concentration15% niacinamide targets sebum overproduction, enlarged pores, and uneven skin tone through direct inhibition of melanin transfer and sebaceous gland activity; among the highest OTC concentrations in K-beauty