Balancing & Clarifying Serum

Description

AQUA, LACTOCOCCUS FERMENT LYSATE (FERMENTS), PROPANEDIOL, Potassium azelaoyl diglycinate (Azelaic acid derivative), CARNITINE, ACETYL GLUCOSAMINE (Antioxidant), SARCOSINE (Amino acid), ECTOIN (Amino acid), ADENOSINE (Active), 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

My Doctor's Diagnosis: Analysis and Target

The Ordinary's Balancing & Clarifying Serum is primarily intended for skin prone to blemishes, excess sebum, and imbalances. My analysis of the formulation reveals a clear desire to target acne, enlarged pores, and shine, while respecting the balance of the skin barrier. This serum is in line with The Ordinary's other products, which are renowned for their effectiveness and scientific transparency.

Formula Analysis: Key Assets

Three major assets catch my attention:

• Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate : Derived from azelaic acid, it regulates sebum production, reduces redness, and prevents blemishes. Its gentle keratolytic action refines skin texture without causing irritation.
• Lactococcus Ferment Lysate This probiotic ferment supports the skin's barrier function and modulates inflammation, contributing to improved skin tolerance and reduced microbial imbalances.
• Acetyl Glucosamine : An antioxidant and hydration booster, it promotes cell renewal and improves the complexion's radiance, while strengthening protection against external aggressions.

The synergy of these active ingredients makes the product highly effective on combination to oily skin, while maintaining softness and comfort.

Tips and Application Ritual

I recommend applying this serum in the morning and/or evening, on clean, dry skin, before moisturizer. It pairs perfectly with moisturizing active ingredients (hyaluronic acid, niacinamide), but it is best to avoid immediate combination with powerful exfoliating acids (AHA/BHA) to limit the risk of irritation. The use of sunscreen in the morning is recommended.

My Final Verdict & Safety Opinion

This serum stands out thanks to its balanced, non-comedogenic formula that is gentle on sensitive skin. Its light texture and fragrance-free formula make it ideal for daily use on acne-prone or unbalanced skin. The only possible downside is a slight film-like sensation on the surface for very oily skin. In conclusion, this is an innovative, safe, and effective skincare product, true to The Ordinary's expertise.

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