Oily skin is a common concern for many people, often leading to unwanted shine, clogged pores, and the dreaded breakouts. However, while oily skin can present challenges, it also has its advantages—such as slower ageing due to the skin’s natural moisture. The key to managing oily skin is understanding its unique needs and creating a skincare routine that helps balance sebum production without over-drying the skin.

What Causes Oily Skin?

Oily skin is primarily caused by the overproduction of sebum (the natural oil produced by sebaceous glands in your skin). While sebum is essential for keeping your skin moisturised and protected, excess production can result in a shiny appearance, clogged pores, and acne.

Several factors can contribute to oily skin, including:

  • Genetics: If oily skin runs in your family, you’re more likely to have it.

  • Hormonal fluctuations: Puberty, pregnancy, and menstruation can lead to an increase in sebum production.

  • Climate: Hot and humid weather can trigger your skin to produce more oil.

  • Diet: Eating a diet high in refined sugars and dairy can sometimes exacerbate oily skin.

  • Stress: Increased stress levels can lead to hormonal imbalances, which in turn may cause excess oil production.

Understanding these causes is the first step to finding the right balance for your skin.

Step 1: Cleanse Properly – But Don’t Overdo It

Cleansing is a crucial part of any skincare routine, but it’s especially important when you have oily skin. The goal is to remove excess oil, dirt, and impurities without stripping your skin of its natural moisture.

Choose the Right Cleanser

Opt for a gentle, oil-free or gel-based cleanser designed to break down oil without irritating or over-drying the skin. Look for ingredients like:

  • Salicylic acid: A beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that helps clear pores and reduce oil.

  • Charcoal or clay: Helps absorb excess oil and deep-clean pores.

  • Tea tree oil: Known for its natural antibacterial properties, perfect for oily or acne-prone skin.

Avoid harsh, alcohol-based cleansers, as they can strip the skin of its natural oils, causing your sebaceous glands to produce even more oil to compensate.

Cleansing Routine

Cleanse your face twice a day—once in the morning to remove overnight oil buildup and once before bed to remove makeup, dirt, and excess oil accumulated throughout the day.

Step 2: Don’t Skip the Toner

Toners help remove the last traces of dirt and oil after cleansing, while also helping to balance your skin’s pH levels. They are particularly useful for those with oily skin, as they can provide an extra layer of control over sebum production.

Look for a Toner with Oil-Control Ingredients

  • Witch hazel: A natural astringent that helps tighten pores and control oil production.

  • Niacinamide: Known for regulating oil production while improving the skin’s texture.

  • Salicylic acid: A gentle exfoliant that helps keep pores clear and reduce oil buildup.

Choose a non-alcoholic toner to prevent dryness and irritation. After toning, your skin should feel refreshed, not tight or uncomfortable.

Step 3: Exfoliate Regularly (But Not Too Much)

Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells that can clog pores and contribute to breakouts. It’s especially important for oily skin, as it helps prevent the formation of blackheads and acne.

Types of Exfoliants

There are two main types of exfoliants:

  • Physical exfoliants: Scrubs with small, gritty particles that manually slough off dead skin.

  • Chemical exfoliants: These contain active ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or lactic acid, which gently dissolve dead skin cells.

While physical exfoliants can be effective, it’s essential to be gentle to avoid irritating your skin. Chemical exfoliants are often a better choice for oily skin as they can penetrate deep into pores to clear oil and debris without harsh scrubbing.

How Often to Exfoliate

Exfoliate your skin 2–3 times a week—exfoliating too frequently can strip your skin and cause irritation, which may lead to increased oil production. Choose exfoliating products designed for oily or acne-prone skin for the best results.

Step 4: Moisturise Even if You Have Oily Skin

It might seem counterintuitive to moisturise if you have oily skin, but keeping your skin hydrated is essential for maintaining a healthy balance. Skipping moisturiser can lead to the overproduction of oil as your skin tries to compensate for the lack of moisture.

Choose a Lightweight, Oil-Free Moisturiser

Opt for a gel-based moisturiser that is lightweight and oil-free. Look for products that contain:

  • Hyaluronic acid: A moisture-binding ingredient that hydrates without adding oil.

  • Glycerin: A humectant that helps draw moisture into the skin.

  • Aloe vera: Soothes and hydrates the skin while controlling excess sebum.

Avoid rich, heavy moisturisers that can clog pores or add to the shine. A lightweight formula will hydrate your skin without making it greasy.

Step 5: Apply a Mattifying Sunscreen

Sunscreen is a must for every skin type, and oily skin is no exception. However, it’s important to choose the right kind of sunscreen to prevent adding to the shine.

Look for Oil-Free or Mattifying Formulas

  • Oil-free sunscreens help prevent added shine while offering protection from harmful UV rays.

  • Mattifying sunscreens absorb excess oil and leave a matte finish, making them perfect for oily skin.

Apply sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days or during the winter months, to protect your skin from harmful UV rays that can accelerate signs of ageing and increase oil production.

Step 6: Consider Spot Treatments for Breakouts

If you’re prone to acne or blemishes, incorporating a spot treatment can help target individual problem areas without affecting the rest of your skin.

Effective Spot Treatment Ingredients

  • Salicylic acid: Penetrates the pores to clear oil and reduce inflammation.

  • Benzoyl peroxide: Helps kill acne-causing bacteria and reduce redness.

  • Sulfur: A natural ingredient that helps absorb oil and reduce the appearance of blemishes.

Apply these treatments directly onto blemishes after cleansing and toning, and only use them as needed.

tep 7: Avoid Touching Your Face

Throughout the day, our hands pick up dirt, oil, and bacteria, which can transfer to your skin when you touch your face. This can exacerbate oily skin issues, leading to more breakouts and congestion.

Make a Habit of Not Touching Your Face

Try to avoid resting your chin on your hands or picking at blemishes. It’s also a good idea to clean your phone screen regularly, as it can collect oil and bacteria that transfer to your face.

Step 8: Diet and Lifestyle Tips

Your diet and lifestyle choices can also impact the oil production in your skin. Consider these tips to help manage oily skin:

  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.

  • Eat a balanced diet: Reduce your intake of refined sugars, dairy, and processed foods, as these can sometimes trigger excess oil production.

  • Manage stress: Stress can increase sebum production, so try activities like yoga, meditation, or exercise to keep stress levels in check.