My forehead was a beacon. A literal light source by 11 AM.
The real issue wasn’t just oil—it was the texture. Every pore felt like a tiny, clogged factory.
It’s a clear, watery serum from The Ordinary. Costs less than a fancy latte. The claim? Control sebum, shrink pores. Skeptical, but for the price, fine.
10% Niacinamide
A high dose of the oil-regulating vitamin.
1% Zinc
Tackles inflammation and shine.
Oil-Free
Sinks in with zero residue.
Photo: Christian Agbede / Unsplash
It’s a brutally simple formula. Two main players. Niacinamide tells your pores to calm down, Zinc PCA helps mop up the oil.
- Niacinamide: Regulates sebum production & minimizes pores
- Zinc PCA: Absorbs excess surface oil
- Tamarinus Indica Seed Gum: Lightweight texture
- Aqua (Water): Base
Photo: Jocelyn Morales / Unsplash
Texture is like slightly sticky water. Absorbs in 8 seconds flat—you have to work fast. No scent, just a faint chemical tang.
By week two, my midday blotting sheets were half as used. Unexpected? It made my moisturizer pill if I didn’t let it dry completely.
Shine reduced by about 70%. Pores looked tighter, less like craters. Did it stop oil completely? No. And it’s not a blackhead vacuum.
It’s not magic, but it’s effective. A utilitarian workhorse for oily skin that actually works.