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

The Ordinary Balancing & Clarifying Serum is a lightweight, multi-active 1 fl oz solution that helps reduce excess oil, refine the look of pores, and even skin texture for a clearer-looking complexion.

This water-based serum blends seven targeted technologies to address shine, congestion, and post-acne marks while supporting barrier hydration. Instead of relying on a single active, the formula pairs amino acids, sugar derivatives, moisturizing protectants, and fermentation-derived extracts to gently exfoliate, regulate surface oil, and defend moisture levels. It’s designed to layer easily with other skincare steps and to be suitable for daily use without strong dryness or irritation.

How does this serum reduce shine without overdrying skin?

The formula uses naturally occurring molecules like Sarcosine, L-Carnitine and Polylysine to control surface oil and reduce the appearance of shine, while humectants and barrier-supporting ingredients keep skin hydrated. The balance between oil-regulating actives and protective compounds helps limit oily buildup without stripping moisture.

• Sarcosine & L-Carnitine: decrease visible oiliness and surface shine.
• Polylysine: patented branched molecule that helps moderate sebum appearance.
• Ectoin & Lactococcus Ferment Lysate: protect the barrier and lock in hydration.

Will it help smooth texture and reduce the look of pores?

Yes — the serum combines exfoliation-mimicking and pore-targeting ingredients to refine texture and minimize pores’ appearance. N-Acetylglucosamine gently promotes cellular turnover similar to mild acids, while adenosine helps reduce visible texture irregularities.

• N-Acetylglucosamine: supports gentle exfoliation to address congestion and uneven tone.
• Adenosine: assists in reducing the look of textured skin and pores.
• Multi-actives: work together for smoother surface appearance over time.

How does the serum support skin barrier and long-lasting hydration?

Instead of relying only on mattifying ingredients, the formula includes barrier-strengthening and water-retention actives to maintain moisture while oil is regulated. Ectoin, a fermentation-derived amino acid derivative, helps protect against water loss and keeps skin comfortable throughout the day.

• Ectoin: helps prevent trans-epidermal water loss and soothes barrier stress.
• Lactococcus Ferment Lysate: supports barrier health with microbial-derived fragments.
• Water-based delivery: lightweight hydration that layers under creams or sunscreens.

How should I include this serum in my daily routine?

Use the serum after cleansing and before heavier creams or oils — morning and evening are both acceptable depending on your needs. Apply a few drops to face and neck, allow it to absorb, then follow with moisturizer and SPF in the daytime; patch-test when first introducing new actives.

• Step order: cleanse → tone (optional) → apply serum → moisturize → sunscreen (AM).
• Frequency: start once daily, increase to twice daily if well tolerated.
• Compatibility: pairs with non-acid hydrators and barrier-repair creams; avoid layering multiple strong exfoliants immediately.

Who is this for? The Ordinary Balancing & Clarifying Serum is aimed at people with oily or combination skin, those experiencing visible pore enlargement or textured skin, and anyone wanting to reduce congestion and post-acne marks without aggressive drying. Because the formula prioritizes a balance of oil-control and hydration support, it’s also suited for individuals seeking a lightweight daily serum that layers well under other treatments.

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.