Oily skin can benefit from focused formulations that reduce excess sebum, refine pores, and support a balanced complexion. The Ordinary line offers budget-friendly serums and treatments designed to address shine without heavy heaviness. This guide highlights five effective Ordinary products for oily skin, explaining how each works and when to use them in a simple routine.
| Product | Brand | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% | The Ordinary | Controls oil, improves texture, supports brightness |
| The Ordinary The Acne Set (3-Step) | The Ordinary | Clears pores, targets acne-prone skin, gentle cleansing |
| The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner | The Ordinary | Even skin tone, smoother texture, brighter appearance |
| The Ordinary Balancing & Clarifying Serum | The Ordinary | Oil control, pore refinement, clearer complexion |
| The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution | The Ordinary | Deep exfoliation for brighter, smoother skin |
Note: The products listed provide a mix of oil control, exfoliation, and hydration to maintain balanced, non-greasy skin. Always perform a patch test before introducing new actives into your routine and follow product-specific usage guidelines to minimize irritation.
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% — Smoothing Serum
The Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% serum targets uneven skin texture and excess oil with a lightweight, water-based formula. A high concentration of Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) along with Zinc PCA helps regulate oil production and support the skin barrier, promoting a shine-free appearance within days of use. Suitable for blemish-prone skin, this serum can improve radiance and texture in a short timeframe.
The Acne Set — 3-Step Skin Regimen
This complete three-step regimen focuses on cleansing, treating, and moisturizing to support acne-prone and oily skin. The Glucoside Foaming Cleanser gently removes impurities, the Salicylic Acid 2% solution targets clogged pores and acne, and the Natural Moisturizing Factors + Beta Glucan moisturizer helps maintain hydration without greasiness. The trio provides a balanced routine designed to minimize oiliness while preventing dryness-driven irritation.
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner
This daily toner uses a 7% glycolic acid blend to help smooth texture and even tone, enhancing radiance. Regular use can lead to a more refined complexion and reduced the appearance of dullness. It’s a lightweight option for oily skin that wants more glow without a heavy or occlusive feel. Consider gradual introduction if you are new to acids to minimize sensitivity.
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (With Ceramides)
This hydration serum offers multi-depth moisturization with five forms of hyaluronic acid. Ceramides support the skin barrier, helping prevent moisture loss and maintaining a hydrated, plump look that counters the oil-induced dryness that some anti-oil regimens can cause. It works well in layered routines with Niacinamide or Vitamin C products but remains light enough for oily complexions.
The Ordinary Balancing & Clarifying Serum
This multi-active formula targets oiliness and pore appearance while supporting texture refinement. It helps balance oil and water content in the skin, reducing shine and promoting a clearer complexion. The serum is designed to strengthen the barrier and improve radiance, making it suitable for daily use as part of an oily-skin regimen.
The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution
This peel combines AHA and BHA for deep exfoliation, helping to reduce the appearance of clogged pores and uneven texture. It can brighten the complexion and improve smoothness when used as directed, typically once a week. Avoid overuse to minimize irritation, especially for sensitive or reactive skin types. Always apply sunscreen during the day when using exfoliating acids.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations for Oily Skin
- Oil control vs. hydration: Look for lightweight, water-based serums (Niacinamide, Zinc) that regulate sebum without drying the skin. Pair with a non-comedogenic moisturizer if needed.
- Exfoliation frequency and type: Use chemical exfoliants (glycolic acid, salicylic acid) to unclog pores and smooth texture. Start slowly to avoid irritation, then increase frequency as tolerated.
- Targeted actives: Niacinamide supports brightness and resilience, while Beta/Alpha hydroxy acids help refine pores and tone. Consider layering strategies that minimize sensitivity.
- Barrier support: Ceramides and humectants like hyaluronic acid help retain moisture and protect the skin’s barrier, reducing rebound oil production after exfoliation.
- Product compatibility: If you use multiple actives, stagger application days (e.g., acids a few nights per week, Niacinamide daily) to minimize irritation and maximize results.
- Patch testing and tolerance: Introduce one new product at a time and observe for adverse reactions before expanding usage to full routine.
- Sun protection: Daily sunscreen is essential when using exfoliating acids to protect newly revealed skin from UV damage and prevent uneven tone.
- Skin type variability: Some oily skin individuals may be sensitive to acids; consider simpler routines with balancing serums first and add actives gradually based on response.