The Ordinary Balancing & Clarifying Serum

Balancing & Clarifying Serum is a lightweight, water-based formula created for skin that looks oily, congested or uneven. It combines several active technologies to help improve the appearance of pores, excess shine and uneven texture while maintaining comfortable hydration.

It is particularly suitable for oily and combination skin, but can be used by all skin types. If your skin tends to become shiny during the day, feels congested or has visible pores and uneven texture, this serum offers a simple way to address several concerns in one routine.

What Does Balancing & Clarifying Serum Do?

This multi-active serum is designed to support a clearer and more balanced-looking complexion.

With regular use, the formula helps:

• Reduce the appearance of excess oil and shine
• Minimize the look of enlarged pores
• Improve the appearance of uneven skin texture
• Reduce the visibility of post-acne marks
• Maintain skin hydration
• Support the skin barrier
• Improve the look of dull, less radiant skin

The lightweight texture makes it especially convenient for oily or combination skin, including skin that does not feel comfortable with heavy or rich serums.

Key Ingredients

Sarcosine & L-Carnitine

These ingredients are included to help improve the appearance of oily-looking skin and reduce visible shine.

Polylysine

A naturally derived ingredient that contributes to the formula’s approach to managing the appearance of excess oil and shine.

Adenosine

A multifunctional ingredient included to help improve the appearance of pores and uneven-looking skin texture.

N-Acetylglucosamine (NAG)

NAG is an amino sugar that helps support smoother-looking skin and a more even-looking complexion. It is particularly useful in a formula designed for the appearance of congestion and uneven texture.

Ectoin

Ectoin helps the skin retain moisture and supports the skin’s natural protective function, making it useful in a formula that addresses oiliness without overlooking hydration.

Lactococcus Ferment Lysate

This ferment-derived ingredient is included to help support the skin barrier and overall skin comfort.

Balancing & Clarifying Serum for Oily Skin

Oily skin does not necessarily mean dehydrated skin. In fact, using overly harsh products to remove oil can leave the skin feeling dry and uncomfortable.

This serum takes a more balanced approach by addressing visible shine and excess oil while also providing hydration and supporting the skin barrier.

For oily and combination skin in Pakistan, where heat and humidity can make shine and congestion more noticeable, a lightweight water-based serum can be an easy addition to a daily skincare routine.

Who Is It Suitable For?

This serum is a good option if your main concerns include:

• Oily or combination skin
• Excess shine
• Visible or enlarged-looking pores
• Congested-looking skin
• Uneven skin texture
• Post-acne marks
• Dull-looking skin
• Dehydration alongside excess oil

Although it is particularly suited to oily and combination skin, the formula is suitable for all skin types.

How To Use

Shake well before applying.

After cleansing, apply a few drops to the face in the morning and evening. Follow with your preferred moisturizer.

During the daytime, always finish your routine with sunscreen.

If you are introducing this serum alongside other active skincare products, introduce products gradually and avoid adding several new actives to your routine at the same time.

Patch testing is recommended before use. If irritation occurs, rinse the product off, discontinue use and seek medical advice if needed. Use only on intact skin and keep out of reach of children.

Can You Use It Every Day?

Yes. The recommended directions are morning and evening use.

However, skincare routines should be adjusted according to how your skin responds. If you are new to active skincare, starting gradually can help you understand how your skin tolerates the formula.

Can It Be Used With Other Products?

Yes, but your complete routine should be kept balanced.

For example, you can combine a lightweight cleanser, Balancing & Clarifying Serum, moisturizer and sunscreen for a simple daily routine.

If your routine already contains several exfoliating acids or other strong active ingredients, avoid introducing everything at once.

For additional hydration, consider pairing your routine with a lightweight moisturizer such as Natural Moisturizing Factors + Beta Glucan.

If your primary concern is excess oil and visible pores, Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% can also be considered as part of a carefully planned routine.

Formula Details

Product type: Water-based serum
Size: 30ml
pH: 5.5–6.5

Free from: Alcohol, oil and silicone
Vegan
Cruelty-free

Key Ingredients

Sarcosine, L-Carnitine, Polylysine, Adenosine, N-Acetylglucosamine, Ectoin and Lactococcus Ferment Lysate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Balancing & Clarifying Serum good for oily skin?

It is particularly suitable for oily and combination skin. The formula helps reduce the appearance of excess shine and oil while supporting hydration.

Does it help with the appearance of pores?

Yes. The formula is designed to improve the appearance of enlarged-looking pores and uneven skin texture.

Can it help with post-acne marks?

It helps reduce the appearance of post-acne marks and supports a more even-looking complexion. It is not a medical treatment for acne or acne scarring.

Will it dry out oily skin?

The formula is designed to address visible oiliness while maintaining hydration and supporting the skin barrier, rather than simply stripping oil from the skin.

Can dry skin use this serum?

Yes. It is suitable for all skin types. However, if your skin is very dry, pairing the serum with a suitable moisturizer can provide additional comfort and hydration.

Is it a treatment for acne?

This is a cosmetic skincare serum designed to address the appearance of congestion, excess oil, pores and uneven texture. It should not be considered a treatment for medical acne.

Final Thoughts

If your skin looks shiny, congested or uneven and you want a lightweight serum that addresses several concerns at once, Balancing & Clarifying Serum can be a practical addition to your skincare routine.

Its water-based texture makes it particularly suitable for oily and combination skin, while its combination of oil-balancing, hydration and barrier-supporting ingredients helps maintain a more comfortable, balanced-looking complexion.