My forehead was a grease slick by noon. Every single day.
The real issue? Foundation would just slide right off — a literal waste of money.
It’s a watery serum from The Ordinary. Under $7. The internet swore it was duct tape for your pores.
Niacinamide 10%
A high dose to regulate oil at the source.
Zinc 1%
Tamps down inflammation and calms budding breakouts.
Oil Control
The main event. Promises a matte finish, not just a temporary blot.
It’s a shockingly short list. No fragrance, no fluff. Just two active ingredients doing heavy lifting.
- Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Reduces sebum production and improves skin barrier
- Zinc PCA: An astringent mineral that soothes and minimizes shine
- Tamarinus Indica Seed Gum: A natural texturizer — gives it that slick slip
- Aqua (Water): The base. It’s mostly this.
Texture is like slightly sticky water. Absorbs in 8 seconds — leaves zero residue.
By week two, my midday blotting sheets were half as used. A genuine shock. But it pills like crazy if you layer it wrong.
Oil production cut by about 60%. Pores looked tighter. Did nothing for blackheads, though — that’s a different product.
It’s not magic, but it’s the closest thing to a scientific fix for shine. A staple in my cabinet now.