My forehead could signal ships by noon. That kind of oily.
The real issue wasn’t the shine—it was the texture. My pores looked like a waffle iron imprint by 3 PM.
It’s a watery serum from The Ordinary. $6.90. I was skeptical of anything that promised to “balance” my oil slick.
10% Niacinamide
A high dose of the vitamin known for regulating sebum.
1% Zinc
Tackles inflammation and absorbs excess oil.
Oil-Free
A non-negotiable for us shiny folks.
Photo: Lina Verovaya / Unsplash
It’s a two-ingredient heavyweight. Niacinamide is the star, but zinc is the quiet bouncer that actually clears the pore-clogging party.
- Niacinamide: Shrinks pore appearance by regulating oil
- Zinc PCA: Mattifies and calms redness
- Tamarind Extract: A hydrating slip agent they never mention
- Carrageenan: Just a texturizer from seaweed
Photo: Harper Sunday / Unsplash
Texture is like slightly sticky water. Absorbs in 8 seconds—I timed it. Leaves a faint, velvety film.
By week two, my midday blotting paper use dropped by half. The surprise? My makeup stopped sliding off my nose.
Photo: Angelina / Unsplash
Shine is controlled, not eliminated. Pores look tighter. But if you want deep hydration, this isn’t it—you’ll still need a moisturizer.
It’s not magic, but it’s the most effective budget buy for shine control I’ve used. I keep repurchasing.