The Ordinary Soothing & Barrier Support Serum — 1 fl oz Pink Calming, Hydrating, Redness-Reducing Treatment

This serum combines vitamins, botanicals and barrier lipids in a single, fast-absorbing formula designed to calm sensitized skin and improve skin texture. Clinically tested ingredients aim to increase hydration immediately and support barrier recovery, making it an easy addition to both simple and layered skincare routines. The formula is fragrance-free and accepted by the National Eczema Association, formulated to be gentle enough for sensitive skin types when used as directed.

How does this serum reduce the look of redness and discomfort?

The formula targets visible redness and the feeling of tightness using a blend of soothing botanicals, activated phenolic derivatives, and anti-irritant ingredients. These act together to calm the skin’s appearance while supporting tolerance to environmental stressors.

• Gallic acid derivatives (multiple activated forms) help mitigate irritation-related redness.
• Bisabolol and the soothing complex reduce sensations of tightness and discomfort.
• Centella asiatica triterpenes support protection against external irritants.

What evidence supports its hydration and barrier benefits?

Clinical testing showed a clear immediate hydration increase and measurable barrier recovery after application in controlled trials. The serum supplies hygroscopic ingredients plus lipids that work on both water retention and barrier structure.

• Clinical results reported an immediate boost in skin hydration after one use.
• Barrier recovery was observed in tests within hours of application.
• Ceramide-like plant lipids and sugar-based hydrators help maintain moisture all day.

Which key actives are in the formula and what do they do?

The product blends multiple technologies to address hydration, barrier support, and visual calm. Ingredients were chosen to complement one another without adding heavy fragrance or unnecessary irritants.

• Vitamin B12 contributes to barrier support and gives the serum its subtle pink tint.
• 2% niacinamide supports essential skin components tied to hydration.
• Plant-derived ceramides, phospholipids and sugar-based hydrators replenish lipids and water-binding capacity.

How should I use this serum in my routine?

Apply a few drops to clean skin morning and evening, following cleansing and before heavier creams or oils. Patch test first and avoid applying to broken skin; layer with sunscreen during the day for UV protection.

• Use on damp skin to maximize absorption and hydration retention.
• Follow with moisturizer to lock in benefits for all-day hydration.
• Discontinue if irritation increases and consult a dermatologist for persistent reactions.

Who is this for: This serum is suited for people seeking to calm visible redness, strengthen a weakened skin barrier, or boost hydration without heavy textures. It can be used by those with sensitive or reactive skin, as well as anyone wanting a gentle, science-backed step to improve texture and lasting moisture. Always patch-test new products and follow guidance for layering active ingredients to ensure compatibility with your existing routine.

Ingredients

Aqua (Water), Propanediol, Isodecyl Neopentanoate, Pentylene Glycol, Niacinamide, Hexyldecanol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Xylitylglucoside, Ceteth-20 Phosphate, Anhydroxylitol, Ethyl Linoleate, Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, Madecassic Acid, Naringenin, Cyanocobalamin, Panthenyl Triacetate, 4-T-Butylcyclohexanol, Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid, Cetylhydroxyproline Palmitamide, Bisabolol, Brassica Campestris Sterols, Sphingolipids, Phospholipids, Epigallocatechin Gallatyl Glucoside, Gallyl Glucoside, Propyl Gallate, Xylitol, Zingiber Officinale Root Extract, Stearic Acid, Dicetyl Phosphate, Isoceteth-20, Xanthan Gum, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Tocopherol, Dehydroacetic Acid, P-Anisic Acid, Phytic Acid, Sodium Phytate, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Hydroxide, Benzyl Alcohol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin.