If you have oily skin, it’s important to find products that will reduce excess shine but still keep your skin balanced and hydrated. Thankfully, The Ordinary has a variety of products that will work perfectly in your oily skin care routine.
Here are some of the best The Ordinary products for oily skin to add to your routine.
The Best The Ordinary Products for Oily Skin
Best Serum
Best The Ordinary Serum for Oily Skin
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
This multi-tasking product helps minimize the production of sebum, while also reducing blemishes, congestion, and redness.
This serum is one of the best The Ordinary products for oily skin, because it contains an effective concentration of niacinamide, which has been shown to control sebum production[1]. It also addresses a wide variety of other skin concerns, including redness and inflammation, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation[2].
Pros
- Oil-free
- Alcohol-free
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons
- May cause flushing in those sensitive to niacinamide (patch test prior to using)
In addition to niacinamide, this serum also contains zinc. Zinc has been shown to balance sebum production, minimize breakouts, and reduce inflammation[3].
Best Mask
Best The Ordinary Mask for Oily Skin
The Ordinary Salicylic Acid Masque
This mask combines salicylic acid, a chemical exfoliator, with charcoal, clays, and squalane to absorb excess sebum, unclog pores, and minimize breakouts without irritating the skin.
Salicylic acid is a great exfoliator for oily skin, because it is oil-soluble and gets deep into the pores to remove excess sebum and debris, leading to a smooth and clear complexion[4]. The 2% concentration in this mask is effective, but gentle enough to minimize the risk of irritation.
Pros
- Oil-free
- Alcohol-free
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons
- May irritate sensitive skin
In addition to salicylic acid, this mask contains charcoal and clays, which deeply clean the skin, removing impurities that can clog pores. Squalane – a non-comedogenic hydrator – also helps soothe and moisturize the skin.
Best Peel
Best The Ordinary Peel for Oily Skin
The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution
This high-strength peeling solution is one of the best The Ordinary products for oily skin, as it effectively exfoliates within the pores and on the surface of the skin. This helps to rid the skin of excess oil while improving the tone and texture.
This peel offers a range of benefits, thanks to a high concentration of alpha-hydroxy acids (glycolic acid, lactic acid, tartaric acid, and citric acid), as well as an effective concentration of beta hydroxy acid (salicylic acid). The AHAs help to exfoliate the top layer of the skin to reduce the signs of aging, improve texture, and minimize hyperpigmentation, while BHA unclogs pores of excess sebum and debris for a clear complexion.
Pros
- Oil-free
- Alcohol-free
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons
- High probability of irritation (best used by those experienced with acids)
This peel contains ingredients to help counteract irritation, including Tasmanian pepperberry and vitamin B5. However, it is still very strong for an over-the-counter product, and is best suited for those who already have experience using chemical exfoliators in their routine.
Best Moisturizer
Best The Ordinary Moisturizer for Oily Skin
The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
This The Ordinary moisturizer is lightweight but effectively hydrates, which makes it an excellent choice for those with oily skin.
Those with oily skin still need to moisturize to maintain adequate hydration levels in the skin. This moisturizer contains hyaluronic acid, which attracts moisture to the skin to maintain moisture levels[5]. It also contains amino acids, dermal lipids, and other hydrating ingredients that moisturize and protect without leaving behind a greasy finish.
Pros
- Oil-free
- Alcohol-free
- Non-greasy
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons
- No SPF for daytime use
In addition to the ingredients mentioned above, this moisturizer contains saccharides. These plant-derived sugars support dermal water density in the skin, further helping to maintain moisture levels to keep the skin balanced.
Best Hydrator
Best The Ordinary Hydrator for Oily Skin
The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane
This squalane product looks, feels, and acts similarly to a light oil, but is actually oil-free. It is excellent for adding an extra boost of hydration and antioxidant protection to your skincare routine.
This squalane hydrator is one of the best The Ordinary products for oily skin, because it is super lightweight and provides hydration to keep the skin balanced – which may actually help regulate sebum production. While many with oily skin might worry about using an oil-like product, this one is non-comedogenic (meaning it won’t clog pores) and doesn’t feel overly greasy on the skin.
Pros
- Oil-free
- Alcohol-free
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Gentle
Cons
- Some reviewers note it doesn’t work well with makeup
Squalene is naturally found in human sebum, which makes squalane (a derivative of squalene) well-tolerated by most. It also acts as an antioxidant, providing protection against environmental aggressors[6].
FAQs
Which The Ordinary products are good for oily skin?
Some of the best The Ordinary products for oily skin include the Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% and the Salicylic Acid Masque. For those with chemical exfoliator experience, the AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is also a great option.
Is The Ordinary moisturizer good for oily skin?
The Ordinary’s Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA is great for oily skin, because it is lightweight but delivers hydration to keep the skin balanced and healthy.
Why is The Ordinary so cheap?
Part of the reason The Ordinary is so budget-friendly is because the company focuses on using straightforward ingredients that are proven to be great for the skin, while skipping out on luxury ingredients or fillers. The company also uses simple packaging and minimal marketing.
The Bottom Line
If you have oily skin, you'll easily find effective products at The Ordinary. Many of the brand's products will help keep your skin shine-free and clear, while still giving it the hydration that it needs to stay balanced.
