My forehead could signal ships by noon. That kind of oily.
This serum doesn’t just blot — it actually tells your skin to pump out less oil. A total power move.
It’s a no-frills serum from The Ordinary. Under $10. They claim to balance sebum and minimize pores. I was skeptical.
Niacinamide 10%
A high dose of the oil-regulating vitamin.
Zinc 1%
The mineral that calms inflammation and mops up shine.
Water-Based
No oils, no silicones — it won’t add to the grease.
Photo: Chang Duong / Unsplash
It’s a short, sharp ingredient list. The 10% niacinamide is the star — that’s a clinical-strength dose. The zinc is the bouncer, keeping everything calm.
- Niacinamide: Reduces excess oil production & visibly minimizes pores
- Zinc PCA: Regulates sebum, has anti-inflammatory benefits
- Aqua (Water): The base — it’s simple
- Pentylene Glycol: A light hydrator that also helps the actives penetrate
Photo: Camille Brodard / Unsplash
Watery texture — absorbs in under 15 seconds. Leaves a faint, sticky film for a minute. Not luxurious, but you feel it working.
By week two, my midday blotting sessions were cut in half. The surprise? It didn’t make my skin freak out and produce more oil to compensate. That’s rare.
Shine is controlled, not eliminated. Pores look tighter, but they’re still there — it’s not a Photoshop tool. The real win is fewer clogged pores along my jaw.
It’s a workhorse, not a miracle. But for the price, it’s the most effective basic I’ve found for turning down the oil faucet.