Best Serums for Oily Skin (2026) Reviewed
Managing oily skin means finding serums that control shine and minimize pores without stripping moisture. These lightweight formulas deliver targeted ingredients like niacinamide, salicylic acid, and hyaluronic acid to balance sebum production while keeping skin hydrated.
What to Look For
- Niacinamide concentration — Look for 5-20% niacinamide to regulate oil production and refine pore appearance without irritation
- Lightweight texture — Water-based or gel formulas absorb quickly without leaving residue or clogging pores
- Oil-free formulation — Avoid heavy oils that can exacerbate shine; non-comedogenic labels ensure pore safety
- Hydrating ingredients — Hyaluronic acid provides moisture without greasiness, preventing skin from overproducing oil
- Exfoliating acids — Salicylic acid (BHA) unclogs pores while glycolic acid smooths texture for oily, acne-prone skin
Best Serums for Oily Skin
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% — Best Budget
- BOOSTS BRIGHTNESS & SMOOTHNESS: Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% visibly improves skin radiance and smooths texture in one week.
- HYDRATING FORMULA: Lightweight water-based serum that reinforces the skin barrier and provides hydration in as little as 7 days.
- CONTAINS NIACINAMIDE & ZINC PCA: High 10% concentration of Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) and 1% Zinc PCA to help control oil in 3 days.
- REDUCES PORE VISIBILITY: Clinical testing shows appearance of pores is minimized in 4 weeks, improving signs of congesting.
- APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: Apply a few drops to the face in the morning and evening. Patch test before use and avoid broken skin.
This cult-favorite serum delivers high-strength niacinamide at an unbeatable price point.
The 10% niacinamide concentration tackles excess sebum and visible pores, while zinc PCA provides additional oil control. The lightweight water-based formula absorbs quickly and layers well under moisturizer. Results typically appear within one to two weeks of consistent use.
- Pros:
- High 10% niacinamide concentration
- Contains zinc for added oil control
- Fragrance-free and vegan
- Exceptional value under $10
- Cons:
- Can pill under some products
- May cause purging initially
Best for: Anyone seeking effective oil control on a tight budget.
La Roche-Posay Pure 12% Vitamin C Oil Control Serum — Best for Brightening
- Boosts Radiance & Even Skin Tone: This Vitamin C face serum utilized 12% Vitamin C to boosts skin brightening and treats uneven skin tone, making your face look more radiant.
- Helps Oily Skin Control & Exfoliate Pores: Formulated with Salicylic Acid, this face serum helps control oil and exfoliate skin to help clear and refine the appearance of pores.
- Anti-Aging Serum for Fine Lines & Wrinkles: 82% of users saw a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, making this facial serum an excellent anti-aging solution
- Dermatologist Tested with a Fast-Absorbing Texture: This formula is a liquid, fast-aborbing texture that is non-comedogenic and allergy tested with fragrance, making it suitable for even sensitive skin.
- Excellent Stability & Antioxidant Potency: This Vitamin C boosting serum provides long-lasting antioxidant protection and optimal stability thanks to our exclusive Vitamin C Guard Technology
This dermatologist-developed formula combines vitamin C with salicylic acid specifically for oily and combination skin types.
The 12% pure vitamin C brightens and provides antioxidant protection while salicylic acid clears pores. The liquid texture absorbs fast and leaves a matte finish. Formulated with La Roche-Posay thermal spring water to soothe sensitive skin.
- Pros:
- Dual-action brightening and pore clearing
- Fast-absorbing liquid texture
- Matte finish ideal for oily skin
- Allergy tested and suitable for sensitive skin
- Cons:
- Higher price point
- Contains fragrance
Best for: Those with oily skin who want brightening benefits alongside oil control.
Paula’s Choice BOOST 10% Niacinamide Booster — Best for Pore Minimizing
- 10% NIACINAMIDE FOR MULTI-TARGETED IMPROVEMENT: This high-strength booster visibly reduces enlarged pores, uneven skin tone, fine lines, redness, dryness, and other signs of aging. Niacinamide (vitamin B3) works alongside vitamin C and licorice extract to naturally calm, hydrate, and restore youthful radiance and glow.
- MULTI-PURPOSE, CUSTOMIZABLE FORMULA: Designed to be used alone as a potent face serum or mixed into your favorite moisturizer, this serum. for face easily integrates into any morning or evening routine for a personalized, targeted treatment that addresses multiple concerns at once.
- ANTIOXIDANT-RICH, SKIN-REPLENISHING COMPLEX: The formula blends antioxidants and skin-replenishing plant extracts to rejuvenate, protect, and strengthen the skin barrier, supporting lasting improvements in clarity, texture, and tone.
- CLINICALLY DEVELOPED FOR ALL SKIN TYPES: Ideal for dryness, sensitivity, acne, fine lines, or dullness, this booster is fragrance-free, cruelty-free, and proven effective for a wide range of skin concerns and types.
- Paula's Choice Skincare makes products that work. No fragrance, no fluff. Just effective, science-backed formulas that target any concern from wrinkles to breakouts.
A concentrated booster serum that dramatically refines pore appearance and evens skin tone.
This potent formula combines 10% niacinamide with vitamin C and licorice extract to target enlarged pores and uneven texture. The lightweight consistency mixes seamlessly with other products or works on its own. Fragrance-free and suitable for all skin types.
- Pros:
- Visibly minimizes pore appearance
- Can be mixed with other products
- Fragrance-free formulation
- Contains brightening vitamin C
- Cons:
- Small 0.67 oz bottle
- Premium pricing
Best for: Those focused on minimizing enlarged pores and refining skin texture.
Good Molecules Niacinamide Serum — Best Value
- BRIGHT AND HEALTHY COMPLEXION: Refine tone and improve texture while nourishing your skin! Embrace newfound confidence with the Good Molecules Niacinamide Serum!
- SOOTHING AND NON-DRYING: Beneficial for acne prone skin and clogged pores. This serum is non-drying and designed to help to reduce signs of moisture loss caused by a weak skin barrier function.
- PROMOTE SMOOTH AND EVEN SKIN: This balancing formula is rich in Niacinamide (10%), also known as B3, and can be very helpful for those suffering from breakouts, uneven skin tone, enlarged pores, and dull texture.
- PERFECT ADDITION TO YOUR BEAUTY REGIMEN: Apply a few drops to your skin in the morning and at night before oils, moisturizers, and creams. Our serum is powerful enough to bring results and gentle enough for daily use.
- GENTLE ENOUGH FOR ALL SKIN TYPES: This serum is suitable for all skin types, but can be particularly beneficial for those with combination/oily skin. Our serum has a pH of 7.1, is fragrance-free, and was never tested on animals. Since everyone's skin is unique, we recommend performing a patch test before using this product to ensure compatibility and avoid any potential reactions.
An affordable 10% niacinamide serum that punches above its weight class for oil control and pore refinement.
This clean formula targets excess oil, blemishes, and uneven tone without drying out skin. The non-sticky texture absorbs quickly and works for both morning and evening routines. Cruelty-free and fragrance-free.
- Pros:
- Effective 10% niacinamide formula
- Non-drying and non-sticky
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Budget-friendly price
- Cons:
- Basic packaging
- Less extensive ingredient list than competitors
Best for: Beginners seeking an affordable entry point into niacinamide serums.
CeraVe Vitamin C Serum — Best for Sensitive Oily Skin
- [ ANTIOXIDANT BENEFITS ] Antioxidant serum for face formulated with 10% t l-ascorbic acid, the purest form of vitamin C, to help brighten and even skin tone. Protective packaging helps prevent oxidation and maintain product performance.
- [ HYDRATING SERUM ] Facial serum formulated with Hyaluronic Acid to help improve skin tone, texture, and hydration for a healthy looking, radiant complexion.
- [ LIGHTWEIGHT TEXTURE ] This vitamin c serum for face has a gel texture with a non-greasy feel. If layering with an eye cream or facial moisturizer, apply serum in a thin layer and allow to fully absorb into skin before applying additional products
- [ 3 ESSENTIAL CERAMIDES ] Ceramides make up 50% of the lipids in the skin barrier. As you age, studies show that ceramide levels decrease. CeraVe products are formulated with 3 essential ceramides (1,3,6-II) to help restore and maintain the skin barrier.
- [ DERMATOLOGIST RECOMMENDED ] This face brightening serum is fragrance free, paraben-free, non-comedogenic, & allergy tested. CeraVe Skin Care is developed with dermatologists & has products suitable for dry skin, sensitive skin, oily skin, acne-prone, & more.
A gentle vitamin C serum with ceramides that brightens without irritating sensitive, oil-prone complexions.
The 10% L-ascorbic acid formula includes three essential ceramides to restore the skin barrier while providing antioxidant protection. MVE technology delivers continuous hydration throughout the day. Developed with dermatologists and suitable for all skin types.
- Pros:
- Contains ceramides for barrier support
- Gentle enough for sensitive skin
- Protective packaging prevents oxidation
- Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic
- Cons:
- Gel texture may feel slightly tacky
- Lower vitamin C concentration than some competitors
Best for: Those with sensitive, oily skin who need gentle brightening without irritation.
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Serum — Best for Lightweight Hydration
- HYDRATING FACE SERUM: 1 fl. Oz. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum provides intense hydration that leaves skin dewy, smooth, and refreshed.
- HYALURONIC ACID SERUM: Face serum formulated with purified hyaluronic acid, a skin-identical hydrator that binds to water and locks in moisture for lasting skin softness.
- LIGHTWEIGHT MOISTURE: Non-comedogenic and oil-free face serum absorbs quickly and won’t clog pores, making it ideal for layering under your moisturizer or makeup.
- GENTLE FOR ALL SKIN TYPES: From a dermatologist-recommended brand, this hydrating face serum is suitable for dry, sensitive or combination skin.
- COMPLETE THE ROUTINE: Use with Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel or Gel Cream for around the clock hydration and healthy-looking, glowing skin.
An oil-free hyaluronic acid serum that delivers deep hydration without adding shine or heaviness.
This lightweight serum addresses the hydration needs of oily skin without clogging pores or creating greasiness. The formula absorbs instantly and locks in moisture for a smooth, supple complexion. Suitable for daily AM and PM use.
- Pros:
- Oil-free and non-comedogenic
- Instantly absorbing formula
- Provides hydration without shine
- Dermatologist recommended brand
- Cons:
- Primarily hydrating rather than oil-controlling
- Basic ingredient list
Best for: Oily skin types who need hydration without adding oil or heaviness.
The INKEY List 10% Niacinamide Serum — Best Lightweight Formula
- OIL CONTROL - A lightweight, power-packed Niacinamide Serum that can be easily layered into your skincare routine
- POWERFUL INGREDIENTS - Containing 10 percent Niacinamide this naturally occurring B3 vitamin helps to effectively reduce excess oil, blemishes and redness; This anti-blemish serum has a thin consistency and is formulated with 1 percent Hyaluronic Acid for added hydration and effective delivery
- FOR ALL SKIN TYPES - Suitable for all skin types, especially oily and spot-prone, it is cruelty-free and fragrance-free
- HOW TO USE - After cleansing, gently pat a pea-sized amount into the face and neck; If using alongside other serums, layer in any order; Suitable for AM and PM use
A thin, easily layerable niacinamide serum that controls oil and reduces blemishes without weighing down skin.
The 10% niacinamide combined with 1% hyaluronic acid tackles excess oil and redness while maintaining hydration. The ultra-thin consistency makes it ideal for layering under multiple products. Suitable for morning and evening routines.
- Pros:
- Very thin, layerable consistency
- Contains hydrating hyaluronic acid
- Cruelty-free and fragrance-free
- Affordable pricing
- Cons:
- Small bottle size
- May require multiple drops for full coverage
Best for: Multi-step routine enthusiasts who want a serum that layers seamlessly.
Glow Recipe Watermelon Niacinamide Dew Drops — Best for Glowing Skin
- Instant Dewy Glow - Experience newfound hydration and instant glow with our award-winning niacinamide serum. A brightening Korean face serum + makeup primer hybrid with a dewy, lightweight gel texture. Made without mica, glitter, or pearls, revealing immediate illumination and no gray cast.
- Replenish Moisture - Containing the holy grail of hydrators, hyaluronic acid reveals supple, bouncy, and dewy skin. Our hydrating serum has a thin, buildable texture, making it suitable for even the most oily skin types.
- Promote Smooth, Even Skin - Rich in niacinamide, and watermelon, the breathable formula of our brightening serum uses the power of protective amino acids, Vitamin C & A to help revive dullness, minimize the appearance of pores, soothe skin, and treat fine lines and wrinkles.
- How Do You Dew? - The possibilities are endless with this juicy, watermelon scented facial serum. Incorporate into your skin care regimen, prep & prime your makeup, or use as liquid highlighter on the high points of the face. Our promise is natural, glowing skin, no matter the occasion.
- Free Of - We strive to create a sensorial, enjoyable skin care experience, taking it day by day, skin by skin. Made without Parabens, Mineral Oil, Sulfates, phthalates, Dry Alcohols and Synthetic Dyes. Our facial serums along with all other Glow Recipe skin care products, are Vegan & Cruelty-Free.
A hybrid serum-primer that delivers instant luminosity and long-term pore refinement for oily complexions.
This award-winning formula combines niacinamide with watermelon extract and hyaluronic acid for a dewy finish without mica, glitter, or pearls. Works as a serum, primer, or highlighter. The lightweight gel texture absorbs quickly and suits even acne-prone skin.
- Pros:
- Multi-use as serum, primer, or highlighter
- No mica or glitter for natural glow
- Non-comedogenic formula
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Cons:
- Higher price point
- Contains fragrance
Best for: Those who want a healthy glow without added shine or pore-clogging ingredients.
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Serum — Best for Acne-Prone Oily Skin
- This anti-aging pore minimizer face serum helps reduce the look of pores, smooth skin texture and boost skin radiance.
- Formulated with glycolic acid, hyaluronic acid and micro-exfoliating lipo-hydroxy acid, this face serum for oily skin targets fine lines, reduces enlarged pores and visibly tightens skin.
- Face serum for oily skin visibly reduces the look of pores, Targets fine lines, reduces enlarged pores & visibly tightens skin
- Lipo-Hydroxy Acid: Also known as LHA, it's a derivative of salicylic acid, and has exfoliating and skin surface renewing properties.
- Glycolic Acid: An Alpha-Hydroxy Acid (AHA) often considered the gold standard in dermatology for skin exfoliation. Within our formulas, it is recognized for its ability to increase skin surface cell turnover and help visibly improve skin tone and texture.
A triple-acid serum that clears acne, minimizes pores, and reduces post-acne marks for persistently oily, breakout-prone skin.
The combination of salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and lipo-hydroxy acid targets microcomedones while visibly reducing pores and fine lines. Clinical testing showed a 45% reduction in pimples within four weeks. Gentle enough for gradual daily use.
- Pros:
- Triple acid complex for comprehensive exfoliation
- Clinically proven acne reduction
- Targets post-acne marks
- Dermatologist tested
- Cons:
- May cause dryness initially
- Not suitable for sensitive skin
Best for: Those dealing with persistent acne and oiliness who need a stronger exfoliating treatment.
Verdict
For most people with oily skin, The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% offers the best combination of effectiveness and affordability. Those seeking additional brightening benefits should consider La Roche-Posay Pure 12% Vitamin C Oil Control Serum for its dual-action formula designed specifically for oily complexions.
