# The Ordinary Soothing & Barrier Support Serum for oily skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for oily skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/soothing-and-barrier-support-serum/for/oily-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Canada.

Brand: [The Ordinary](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/the-ordinary)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily skin: shine, enlarged pores, blackheads, and blemishes. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for oily skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate support for your oily skin, as niacinamide helps regulate oil production and bisabolol provides anti-inflammatory action, addressing your oily shine concerns.
- The serum also enhances barrier resilience and offers general hydration, which is beneficial for maintaining overall skin health.
- The product is safe for your skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the inclusion of soothing components.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/soothing-and-barrier-support-serum/for/oily-skin): Average (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/soothing-and-barrier-support-serum/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/soothing-and-barrier-support-serum/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/soothing-and-barrier-support-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/soothing-and-barrier-support-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/soothing-and-barrier-support-serum/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/soothing-and-barrier-support-serum/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/soothing-and-barrier-support-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/soothing-and-barrier-support-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Niacinamide, Asiaticoside, Madecassic Acid, Sphingolipids

## What the research says

- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- Cosmetic formulations containing 5% Centella asiatica extract showed the best efficacy in improving skin moisture and decreasing transepidermal water loss, while also exhibiting antiinflammatory properties in 25 volunteers compared to baseline measurements. ([Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/))
- The novel high-payload nanosuspension system of Centella asiatica extract increased skin accumulation of asiatic acid, madecassic acid, and asiaticoside by 5-, 4-, and 4.5-fold respectively compared to a marketed cream in porcine skin, with no local skin irritation in normal rats. ([International Journal of Nanomedicine, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34764648/))
- Topical post-laser application of human adipocyte-derived mesenchymal stem cell media combined with niacinamide significantly improved wrinkle index, melanin index, patient satisfaction, and investigator esthetic improvement scores compared to vehicle cream in patients with aging skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33103316/))
- Topical nicotinamide prevented solar-simulated UV-induced immunosuppression in healthy volunteers, and men experienced immunosuppression at solar-simulated UV doses three times lower than those required for women. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17882270/))
- Topical 5% niacinamide applied twice daily for 12 weeks reduced fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmented spots, red blotchiness, and skin sallowness, and improved skin elasticity compared to vehicle control in 50 female white subjects with facial photoaging. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16029679/))
- Topical application of 0.05% w/w ECa 233 gel reduced erythema index by 0.03 U and improved early crusting and general wound appearance compared to placebo in thirty individuals undergoing facial laser resurfacing. ([Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32310680/))
- Moisturizer containing 5% panthenol, madecassoside, and copper-zinc-manganese decreased adverse reactions and downtime after ablative fractional carbon dioxide laser resurfacing with comparable efficacy to 0.02% triamcinolone acetonide cream in 20 subjects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30945430/))
- Topical treatment with 5% vitamin C and 0.1% madecassoside significantly improved clinical scores for wrinkles, suppleness, firmness, roughness, and skin hydration, along with functional and structural remodeling of the elastic fiber network in 20 female volunteers with photoaged skin after 6 months compared to baseline. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18503551/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this serum is widely praised for its ability to rapidly repair damaged skin barriers, hydrate dry patches, and reduce redness, leaving a glowy finish.

- Liked: Hydrating and plumping (often mentioned)
- Liked: Reduces redness (often mentioned)
- Liked: Repairs skin barrier (often mentioned)
- Liked: Glowy finish (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Good absorption (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes breakouts (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Ineffective for some (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging complaints (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Texture issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant smell (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this serum in your PM routine. Start by applying it 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toning, but right before your moisturizer for the best results.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin. Let it absorb ⏱ for a minute before applying the next product.
- Apply the serum on clean and dry skin since your skin is not sensitive and you want to target oily shine. This helps control excess oil throughout the night.
- Avoid the delicate eye area and do a patch test before using the serum for the very first time.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does The Ordinary Soothing & Barrier Support Serum work for oily skin?

The Ordinary Soothing & Barrier Support Serum works moderately well for oily skin by helping control oil and calming redness without causing irritation. Oily skin often benefits most from treatment products that specifically combine sebum-balancing ingredients like niacinamide and zinc with lightweight hydration.
Sources: [Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Which ingredients make this serum a good fit for oily skin?

Niacinamide and bisabolol help make this serum a good fit for oily skin by helping control oil production and calming inflammation. For an even better fit, oily skin needs treatments that contain ingredients like zinc PCA and ferulic acid to manage excess shine and large pores while brightening your complexion.

### What does Niacinamide do for oily skin?

Niacinamide helps balance oily skin by significantly reducing excess oil production and shine. It is well tolerated and may improve skin texture without clogging pores.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16766489/), [Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34439563/)

### What does Asiaticoside do for oily skin?

Asiaticoside helps soothe redness and calm oily skin while supporting overall skin barrier health. It is unlikely to cause irritation and may help keep the skin balanced by easing inflammation.
Sources: [Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/), [International Journal of Nanomedicine, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34764648/)

### Where does this serum go in a skincare routine for oily skin?

This treatment serum goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing. Oily skin works best with products that contain niacinamide to help control shine and soothing ingredients like bisabolol to keep skin calm.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31461548/)

### Can I use this serum with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this serum with retinol, applying the treatment first and following with your retinol once it absorbs, or alternating nights if your skin is sensitive. This soothing serum is unlikely to cause irritation and helps calm the dryness or redness that retinol often brings.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38102855/)

### How often should I use this serum?

Use this serum in your evening routine, applying it after your cleansing toner and before your moisturizer. It is safe for regular use, but oily skin often needs products with lighter textures and stronger oil-controlling ingredients to get the best results.

### Can this serum clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for oily skin?

This serum may cause breakouts for oily skin, as some reviewers report this issue. To better fit oily skin, products of this type need lightweight, non-greasy ingredients that help balance oil without heavy textures.

### Is this serum fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (benzyl alcohol). Cetearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [Dr.Althea Vitamin C Boosting Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/dr-althea/vitamin-c-boosting-serum/for/oily-skin) — High fit — CA$27.99 at Amazon
- [Skin1004 Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skin1004/probio-cica-intensive-ampoule/for/oily-skin) — High fit — CA$24.44 at Amazon
- [ANUA PEACH 70% NIACINAMIDE SERUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/anua/peach-70-niacinamide-serum/for/oily-skin) — High fit — CA$33.50 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.96 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — CA$37.60 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — CA$29.98 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ca: CA$25.80 (https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CJ3CXTW6?tag=lovi-care-web-product01-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Sephora: CA$25.80 (https://www.sephora.com/ca/en/product/soothing-barrier-support-serum-P508000?skuId=2698348)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Propanediol, Isodecyl Neopentanoate, Pentylene Glycol, Niacinamide, Hexyldecanol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Xylitylglucoside, Ceteth-20 Phosphate, Anhydroxylitol, Ethyl Linoleate, Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, Madecassic Acid, Naringenin, Cyanocobalamin, Panthenyl Triacetate, 4-T-Butylcyclohexanol, Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid, Cetylhydroxyproline Palmitamide, Bisabolol, Brassica Campestris Sterols, Sphingolipids, Epigallocatechin Gallatyl Glucoside, Gallyl Glucoside, Propyl Gallate, Xylitol, Zingiber Officinale Root Extract, Stearic Acid, Dicetyl Phosphate, Isoceteth-20, Xanthan Gum, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Tocopherol, Dehydroacetic Acid, P-Anisic Acid, Phytic Acid, Sodium Phytate, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Hydroxide, Benzyl Alcohol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/soothing-and-barrier-support-serum/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/soothing-and-barrier-support-serum/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-ordinary/soothing-and-barrier-support-serum/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/soothing-and-barrier-support-serum/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/soothing-and-barrier-support-serum/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/soothing-and-barrier-support-serum/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/soothing-and-barrier-support-serum/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/soothing-and-barrier-support-serum/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/soothing-and-barrier-support-serum/for/oily-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/soothing-and-barrier-support-serum/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/soothing-and-barrier-support-serum/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/soothing-and-barrier-support-serum/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/soothing-and-barrier-support-serum/for/oily-skin