Best serums for oily and combination skin

Discover the ideal facial serums for oily and combination skin types looking to control shine, minimize pores, and improve texture. Explore options with key ingredients like niacinamide, salicylic acid, AHAs, and retinol, recommended by dermatologists to balance sebum production. Find lightweight, hydrating formulations that address concerns such as acne, dark spots, and hydration without feeling sticky. This guide will help you select the perfect serum for your skincare routine, achieving clearer and healthier-looking skin.

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  1. 1

    Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum: Propolis + Niacinamide

    171 Global Votes
    • Refines pores

      (+4)

    A K-beauty favorite, this serum is celebrated for its ability to boost radiance and impart a 'lit from within glow.' Its propolis and niacinamide blend is excellent for combination skin.

  2. 2

    Medik8 Niacinamide Peptides

    101 Global Votes
    • Calms signs of irritation

      (+4)

    As a newest launch, this serum is clinically proven to refine pores, smooth congested complexions, and calm redness. Its 10% niacinamide and peptides rebalance excess oil without causing irritation.

  3. 3

    La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Serum

    77 Global Votes
    • Suitable for sensitive skin

      (+4)

    This lightweight formula is particularly fitting for oily skin, providing deep hydration without heaviness. Its blend of hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5 supports the skin barrier and reduces redness.

  4. 4

    Sunday Riley C.E.O. 15% Vitamin C Brightening Serum

    43 Global Votes
    • Makes skin glow

      (+4)

    Recommended for combination skin, this serum brightens, plumps, and hydrates the complexion. Its 15% vitamin C (THD Ascorbate) effectively improves dullness and reduces the appearance of fine lines.

  5. 5

    CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum

    37 Global Votes
    • Intensely hydrates skin

      (+4)

    With a gel-cream texture, this serum provides 24-hour hydration without a heavy or oily feel. It's lightweight, quickly absorbing, and helps to calm, smooth, and restore the skin barrier for oily and combination types.

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  7. 6

    SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Defense Serum

    20 Global Votes
    • Reduces excess sebum production

      (+4)

    This 'ultimate multitasker' is perfect for oily and acne-prone skin, addressing both blemishes and signs of aging. It keeps pores clear while simultaneously improving skin texture and reducing fine lines.

  8. 7

    Naturium Niacinamide Serum 12% Plus Zinc 2%

    16 Global Votes
    • Aids in reducing pore appearance

      (+4)

    This serum is highly recommended for combination skin due to its potent blend of niacinamide and zinc. It effectively regulates oil production in oily areas while strengthening the skin barrier to prevent dehydration in drier zones.

  9. 8

    Anua Azelaic Acid 10 Hyaluron Redness Soothing Serum

    12 Global Votes
    • Instantly soothes irritated skin and redness

      (+4)

    Highly rated for oily skin, this serum combines azelaic acid, BHA, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid. It effectively soothes redness, addresses dry skin concerns, and is safe for fungal acne.

  10. 9

    La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo+

    11 Global Votes
    • Reduces pimples

      (+4)

    This serum is a top choice for combination and oily skin, specifically targeting congestion, excess oil, and post-blemish marks. Its salicylic acid content helps to purify pores and improve skin clarity.

  11. 10

    SkinCeuticals Silymarin CF Vitamin C Salicylic Acid Antioxidant Serum

    10 Global Votes
    • Reduces skin oiliness

      (+4)

    Specifically formulated for oily and blemish-prone skin, this serum combines powerful antioxidants with salicylic acid. It effectively controls excess oil and shine, brightens the complexion, and helps to prevent breakouts.

  12. 11

    Meta Skin Studio Clear Age Dew Drops

    10 Global Votes
    • Works as a light moisturizer for oily and acne-prone skin

      (+4)

    This professional-grade serum is excellent for barrier repair, anti-aging, and acne-prone skin. Its blend of niacinamide, peptides, and antioxidants supports long-term skin health while remaining gentle.

  13. 12

    Paula's Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster

    9 Global Votes
    • Visibly reduces enlarged pores

      (+4)

    This lightweight, fragrance-free booster is perfect for oily, combination, and blemish-prone skin. It effectively minimizes pores, reduces redness, and evens skin tone, offering versatile layering options.

  14. 13

    INNBEAUTY Project Pore Refine Serum

    7 Global Votes
    • Visibly refines texture

      (+4)

    Clinically proven to reduce pore appearance and rough texture, this serum visibly de-gunks and tightens pores. It delivers clearer, more radiant-looking skin with fewer blackheads and clogged pores.

  15. 14

    Skin Rocks Retinoid 3 Vitamin A Face Serum

    3 Global Votes
    • Powerful yet gentle on skin

      (+4)

    Ideal for acne-prone and oily skin, this serum utilizes stabilised retinal to reduce breakouts and clogged pores. It also works to smooth and renew the skin while providing essential hydration.

  16. 15

    EQQUALBERRY Purple PDRN Pore Minimizing Serum (December 2025)

    3 Global Votes
    • Controls oil production

      (+4)

    This lightweight serum visibly refines pores and balances skin tone, making it ideal for oily and combination skin. Its PDRN formulation helps to unclog and smooth pores for a clearer complexion.

  17. 16

    The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

    0 Global Votes
    • Achieves smoother, radiant skin in 7 days

      (+4)

    An incredibly popular and affordable option, this serum effectively regulates sebum production and clears pores. It's a go-to for oily skin types looking to improve skin radiance and reduce congestion.

  18. 17

    NING Dermologie 2% Salicylic Acid Serum

    0 Global Votes
    • Helps unclog pores

      (+4)

    This serum is a top pick for addressing persistent blackheads and combination skin. Its 2% salicylic acid gently exfoliates dead skin cells and controls sebum without over-drying, making it compatible with other products.