The Ordinary Balancing & Clarifying Serum — 1 fl oz Oil-Control, Pore-Refining Lightweight

The Ordinary Balancing & Clarifying Serum is a lightweight, multi-active water-based serum designed to reduce excess oil, refine the appearance of pores, and smooth skin texture for a clearer-looking complexion.

This serum blends seven targeted technologies to address shine, congestion, and uneven tone while supporting skin hydration and barrier function. It uses amino-acid derivatives, exfoliating sugars, and barrier-supporting ferment lysates to help the look of post-acne marks and texture irregularities without harsh drying. The formula is intended for daily use and aims to balance oil and water levels so skin feels less greasy and appears more even over time.

How does this serum reduce oiliness and shine?

The formula contains molecules like sarcosine, L-carnitine, and a patented polylysine complex that work together to reduce surface oil and visible shine. These ingredients act by modulating sebum-related appearance rather than stripping the skin, helping a matte, balanced finish.

• Sarcosine and L‑Carnitine: naturally occurring molecules that help minimize oiliness.
• Polylysine: a branched, patented lysine-based polymer that further reduces shine.
• Light, water-based texture: avoids heavy emollients so skin feels less greasy.

Will it help with enlarged pores and uneven texture?

Yes — adenosine and N‑acetylglucosamine (NAG) target the visual signs of enlarged pores and textured skin. NAG offers gentle exfoliation similar to mild acids, helping to improve congestion and the look of post-acne marks without harsh irritation.

• Adenosine: supports smoother-looking skin and reduces the appearance of pores.
• N‑Acetylglucosamine: gentle exfoliant that addresses surface congestion and tone irregularities.
• Consistent use: helps refine texture over weeks while remaining suitable for daily routines.

How does the serum protect hydration and the skin barrier?

Rather than dehydrating, the formula includes ectoin and Lactococcus ferment lysate to lock in moisture and support barrier resilience. Ectoin is a fermentation-derived molecule that helps guard against water loss, while the ferment lysate supplies barrier-supportive fragments.

• Ectoin: helps maintain skin hydration and protect against moisture loss.
• Lactococcus ferment lysate: contributes to barrier support and skin comfort.
• Hydration with balance: designed to reduce oil while sustaining moisture levels.

How should I incorporate this into my skincare routine?

Apply the serum to clean, dry skin once or twice daily before heavier treatments and moisturizers. Because it’s water-based and lightweight, it layers well under sunscreens, creams, and makeup. Start by using it every other day if you have sensitive skin, then increase frequency as tolerated.

• Use after cleansing and any water-based treatments (toners, essences).
• Follow with moisturizer to seal in benefits and sunscreen in the morning.
• Avoid mixing with incompatible actives if irritation occurs; patch-test new combinations.

Who this is for: The Ordinary Balancing & Clarifying Serum is aimed at people with oily, combination, or congestion-prone skin who want to reduce visible shine, minimize the look of pores, and improve texture without aggressive peeling. It’s suitable for daily use in routines that prioritize lightweight, multi‑active solutions and for anyone looking to target post-acne marks and uneven tone while maintaining hydration and barrier health.

• MULTI-ACTIVE FORMULA: Combines multiple key technologies to reduce oiliness, improve the appearance of pores, and smooth skin texture for a balanced, clearer looking complexion.
• BALANCES OIL AND WATER CONTENT: Reduces excess shine, minimizes the appearance of enlarged pores, and helps to strengthen the skin barrier for balanced hydration.
• VISIBLY MINIMIZES POST-ACNE MARKS: Formulated to reduce the appearance of post-acne marks, smooth texture irregularities, and enhance skin radiance for clearer, more even looking skin.
• PROMOTES LONG-LASTING HYDRATION SUPPORTS SKIN BARRIER: Contains hydrating ingredients like Ectoin and Lactococcus Ferment Lysate to protect the skin barrier and to help provide all-day moisture maintain hydration.
• GENTLE FOR DAILY USE: A lightweight, water-based formula that reduces signs of congestion, excess oil, and uneven skin texture without drying or irritating stripping the skin. Safe for all skin types, including oily and combination skin.

Ingredients

Aqua (Water), Lactococcus Ferment Lysate, Propanediol, Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate, Carnitine, Acetyl Glucosamine, Sarcosine, Ectoin, Adenosine, Polylysine, Silanetriol, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Sclerotium Gum, Xanthan Gum, Isoceteth-20, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Sodium Chloride, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin.