The Ordinary Balancing & Clarifying Serum 1 fl oz — lightweight oil-control, pore-refining daily treatment

The Ordinary Balancing & Clarifying Serum is a lightweight, multi-active water-based treatment that reduces excess oil, refines the look of pores, and smooths skin texture for a clearer-looking complexion.

This serum blends seven targeted ingredients to address shine, congestion, uneven tone, and hydration in one formula. Rather than relying on a single aggressive acid or drying agent, the product combines sebum-regulating amino acids and patented molecules with mild exfoliating and barrier-supporting actives. The result is a gentle daily treatment designed to balance oil and water, diminish the visible size of pores, and improve overall skin clarity without causing tightness or irritation.

How does this serum reduce oil and shine?

Two naturally occurring amino acids—sarcosine and L-carnitine—work with a patented polylysine complex to decrease surface oil and the look of shine. These actives help the skin appear less glossy while maintaining natural hydration, so skin looks balanced rather than over-dried.

• Sarcosine and L-carnitine regulate oil at the skin’s surface.
• Polylysine’s branched structure helps reduce visible shine.
• Water-based texture avoids stripping moisture while controlling grease.

Will it help with pores and skin texture?

The formula includes adenosine and N-acetylglucosamine (NAG), which together encourage smoother skin and a more even tone. NAG provides gentle exfoliation similar to mild acids, helping to clear clogged pores and reduce the appearance of enlarged pore openings over time.

• Adenosine targets the look of textured skin and enlarged pores.
• N-Acetylglucosamine offers mild, non-irritating exfoliation to reduce congestion.
• Consistent use refines surface texture and improves clarity.

How does it protect and hydrate the skin barrier?

Hydration and barrier support are built into the serum through ectoin and Lactococcus ferment lysate. Ectoin helps the skin retain moisture and limits water loss, while the ferment lysate supplies broken-down bacterial components that support barrier resilience and overall comfort.

• Ectoin shields against moisture loss and environmental stress.
• Lactococcus ferment lysate helps strengthen the skin’s protective function.
• The lightweight formula promotes long-lasting, non-greasy hydration.

How should I use it in my routine and what results can I expect?

Apply a few drops to clean, dry skin once or twice daily, before heavier creams or oils. Because the serum is gentle and water-based, it layers well with other treatments; consistent use can lead to reduced shine, visibly refined pores, and smoother tone within weeks, depending on skin type.

• Use morning and/or evening after cleansing and before moisturizers.
• Pairs with sunscreens in the morning and with restorative creams at night.
• Best combined with consistent cleansing and non-irritating exfoliation.

Who is this for: The Ordinary Balancing & Clarifying Serum is suited for oily, combination, and congested skin types seeking oil control and pore minimization without harsh dryness. It’s also appropriate for anyone wanting a gentle, multi-active approach to post-acne marks and uneven texture while maintaining skin hydration and barrier health.

Features:

• MULTI-ACTIVE FORMULA: Multiple technologies work in concert to reduce oiliness and smooth texture for a clearer look.
• BALANCES OIL AND WATER CONTENT: Controls shine, minimizes pore appearance, and supports barrier hydration.
• VISIBLY MINIMIZES POST-ACNE MARKS: Targets texture irregularities and uneven tone for improved radiance.
• PROMOTES LONG-LASTING HYDRATION & SUPPORTS SKIN BARRIER: Ectoin and ferment lysate protect moisture and barrier function.
• GENTLE FOR DAILY USE: Lightweight, water-based, and suitable for oily and combination skin without causing irritation.

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.