Balancing & Clarifying Serum
Balancing & Clarifying Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, multi-active solution that combines 7 key technologies to reduce skin congestion, minimize excess shine, improve pore appearance, and support skin barrier health for visibly clearer, more balanced skin.
Oil Control
Sarcosine, L-Carnitine, and Polylysine work together to reduce excess sebum and minimize shine throughout the day.
Texture & feel
SENSORYOil Control
Sarcosine, L-Carnitine, and Polylysine work together to reduce excess sebum and minimize shine throughout the day.
Pore Refinement
Adenosine visibly minimizes the appearance of enlarged pores and improves textured skin for a smoother complexion.
Gentle Exfoliation
N-Acetylglucosamine provides acid-free exfoliation to target congestion and even out skin tone without irritation.
Barrier Support
Ectoin and Lactococcus Ferment Lysate protect against water loss and strengthen the skin barrier for balanced hydration.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone. All ingredients are considered safe for topical use during pregnancy and nursing.
Oil-free formula with no fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast. The ferment lysate is processed and safe.
Rating 0/5. Contains no pore-clogging oils or heavy emollients. Suitable for acne-prone skin.
Low irritation potential. Free from harsh acids, fragrances, and common irritants. Patch test recommended.
Can be used with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. Layer under other treatments for enhanced results.
If skin is irritated from shaving or heavy retinol use, this serum may cause temporary stinging. Wait for skin to recover.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSPotassium Azeloyl Diglycinate 2.7-4.1%Proven
A water-soluble derivative of azelaic acid that brightens skin, reduces redness, and helps clear blemishes without the texture issues of pure azelaic acid.
- Function: Tyrosinase inhibitor for skin brightening, sebum normalizing, anti-inflammatory
- Research: Shows significant activity in reducing hyperpigmentation and blemishes
N-Acetylglucosamine (NAG) 1.7-2.5%Proven
An amino sugar that provides gentle exfoliation similar to direct acids, targeting congestion and uneven skin tone without irritation.
- Function: Exfoliation, hydration, hyperpigmentation reduction
- Synergy: Works excellently with niacinamide for enhanced skin tone benefits
Sarcosine & L-Carnitine 1.4-2.1%Promising
Naturally occurring amino acid derivatives that reduce the appearance of oiliness and shine by regulating sebum production.
- Function: Sebum regulation, humectant properties
- Source: Naturally found in human skin and muscles
Adenosine 1.0-1.5%Proven
A molecule involved in cellular energy that helps reduce the appearance of pores, textured skin, and fine lines.
- Function: Pore minimizing, anti-aging, wound healing support
- Research: Clinical trials show improvement in deep wrinkles and skin texture
EctoinProven
An amino acid derivative from extremophile bacteria that protects the skin barrier against water loss and environmental stress.
- Function: Barrier protection, hydration maintenance, anti-inflammatory
- Source: Produced via fermentation from bacteria living in extreme conditions
Lactococcus Ferment LysatePromising
Fragmented molecules from lactococcus lactis bacteria that help support and strengthen the skin barrier.
- Function: Barrier support, hydration, potential anti-inflammatory benefits
- Note: This is a lysate (broken down cells), not a live ferment
PolylysinePatented
A patented molecule with a unique 3D branched structure composed of 48 naturally-derived lysine amino acids that reduces oiliness and shine.
- Function: Oil control, antimicrobial properties
- Structure: Unique three-dimensional branched amino acid chain
24 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.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after cleansing and toning, before heavier serums and moisturizers. Use AM and PM. Shake well before each use.
How to use
HOW TO USEShake Well
Before each use, shake the bottle well to ensure the formula is properly mixed.
Dispense
Apply a few drops (3-4) onto your fingertips after cleansing and toning.
Apply
Gently pat and press the serum onto your face, focusing on areas with congestion or enlarged pores.
Follow Up
Allow to absorb, then continue with your remaining skincare products. Use morning and evening.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin with visible pores
- You struggle with excess shine and congestion
- You want a gentle alternative to harsh acids
- You need a pregnancy-safe clarifying treatment
- You have fungal acne and need FA-safe products
- You want to simplify your routine with a multi-tasker
- You have sensitive skin prone to breakouts
Consider alternatives if:
- You have severely dry skin that needs intense hydration
- You prefer aggressive exfoliation with direct acids
- You need immediate dramatic pore reduction
- You're looking for anti-aging as primary concern
- You want a thicker, more nourishing serum texture
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Lightweight formula controls shine without stripping. Multiple oil-regulating ingredients work synergistically.
Balances oily T-zone while hydrating drier areas. Ectoin provides barrier support for all zones.
Non-comedogenic, oil-free formula. Gentle exfoliation clears congestion without irritation or purging.
Fragrance-free with low irritation potential. May sting on compromised barrier. Patch test recommended.
Provides light hydration but may need heavier moisturizer on top. Best for dry skin with occasional congestion.
Adenosine provides anti-aging benefits. Good for mature skin with enlarged pores or residual oiliness.
Results timeline
WEEK 6+Visibly Clearer Skin
Reduced oiliness and initial improvement in skin clarity. Pores begin to look more refined. Skin feels more balanced.
Clinical testing confirms visible resultsTargets 7 Signs of Congestion
Noticeable reduction in pore visibility, excess oil, uneven texture, and post-acne marks. Skin radiance improves.
Full 7-benefit results emergingSmoother, Brighter Complexion
Continued pore reduction (up to 20%). Skin barrier strengthened. All-day hydration maintained with reduced shine.
20% pore reduction in clinical testingLong-Term Skin Clarity
Consistent use maintains results. Post-acne marks continue to fade. Skin remains balanced, clear, and healthy-looking.
Ongoing improvement with continued useRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Lightweight, non-sticky texture absorbs instantly
- Gentle enough for sensitive and acne-prone skin
- Multi-tasking formula addresses 7 concerns at once
- Pregnancy and fungal acne safe
- Works well under makeup without pilling
- Noticeable pore reduction over time
- Hydrates while controlling oil
- Compatible with most other actives
Criticized
- Higher price than typical The Ordinary products ($19.90)
- May cause initial purging in some users
- Results take 2-4 weeks to become noticeable
- Some find oil control less dramatic than expected
- Can sting on irritated or compromised skin
- 30ml size may not last long with twice-daily use
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Targets sebum and pores with niacinamide instead of the 7-technology approach. Simpler formula but highly effective for oil control. Pairs well with this serum.
Similar texture with NAG for exfoliation. Focuses more on post-acne marks and pigmentation. Contains aloe for soothing but NOT fungal acne safe.
Budget niacinamide option for sebum control and pore minimizing. Single-ingredient focus rather than multi-active approach. Good starter option.
Toner format with niacinamide for pore minimizing and oil control. Different application method (toner vs serum) but similar skin-balancing goals.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required.
Frosted glass dropper bottle with pipette applicator
Yes, 30ml is under 100ml TSA liquid limit for carry-on luggage
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this serum is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or other ingredients typically avoided during pregnancy. The formula relies on gentle amino acids, NAG, adenosine, and barrier-supporting ingredients that are safe for topical use. However, as DECIEM notes, their products haven't been specifically tested on pregnant individuals, so consult your healthcare provider if you have concerns.
Yes, this serum is fungal acne safe. It's oil-free and doesn't contain fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast. While it does contain Lactococcus Ferment Lysate, this is a lysate (broken down bacterial cells) rather than a live ferment, making it safe for fungal acne-prone skin. This is one of the few multi-active clarifying serums that's FA-safe.
Yes, this serum is compatible with most other actives including retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. The formula is gentle and doesn't contain direct acids, so it won't cause pH conflicts. Apply this serum first, allow it to absorb, then layer your other treatments. If using with strong actives like retinol or acids, start slowly and monitor your skin for sensitivity.
This serum is especially suited for oily and combination skin types dealing with excess shine, enlarged pores, and congestion. However, it's tested and suitable for all skin types. It's particularly beneficial for acne-prone skin due to its non-comedogenic, oil-free formula. Dry skin types can use it but should follow with a richer moisturizer. Sensitive skin should patch test first.
Clinical testing shows visibly clearer skin within 1 week of use. The full 7-benefit results (reduced pores, controlled oil, improved texture, faded post-acne marks, enhanced radiance, all-day hydration, and strengthened barrier) typically emerge by week 2. A 20% reduction in pore appearance was observed with continued use. Maximum results are seen with consistent use over 4-6 weeks.
Apply this serum after cleansing and toning, but before heavier serums, treatments, and moisturizers. The water-based formula should go on clean, slightly damp skin. Shake well before use, apply a few drops, and allow it to absorb before continuing with your routine. Use both morning and evening for best results. Follow with sunscreen during the day.
No, this serum has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. It's completely oil-free, silicone-free, and contains no heavy emollients or pore-clogging ingredients. The formula is specifically designed to reduce congestion and improve pore appearance, making it ideal for those prone to clogged pores and breakouts. The NAG ingredient actually helps clear existing congestion.
The serum has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain efficacy. The 30ml bottle typically lasts 2-3 months with twice-daily use (3-4 drops per application). Always shake well before use and ensure the dropper cap is properly sealed after each use.
At $19.90, this is one of The Ordinary's higher-priced products. The brand explains that the price reflects the seven different active technologies included in the formula, each targeting multiple signs of congested skin. While single-ingredient products like Niacinamide ($6.70) focus on 1-2 technologies, this multi-active approach offers a more comprehensive solution in one bottle.
Verdict: The Ordinary Balancing & Clarifying Serum is an impressive multi-tasker that delivers on its promises for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The 7-technology approach provides comprehensive congestion control without the irritation of harsh acids. It stands out as one of the few pregnancy-safe AND fungal acne-safe clarifying options on the market. While the $19.90 price point is higher than typical The Ordinary products, the multi-active formula justifies the cost for those seeking a simplified routine. Best for: those wanting gentle, effective pore refinement and oil control without compromising skin barrier health. Results require patience (2-4 weeks), but the lightweight, non-sticky formula makes twice-daily use effortless.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Lactococcus Ferment Lysate
Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate
Skin Conditioning
|
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
|
|
| 0 |
Carnitine
Cleansing, Skin Conditioning
|
|