Oily skin is among the most prevalent skin concerns. It brings distinct challenges, such as a glossy complexion and recurrent acne. With an appropriate skin care routine and the right products, you can minimize these issues.
To simplify caring for an oily complexion, we consulted a couple of skin care specialists. We specifically asked them to offer their top recommendations for building a daily regimen for oily skin.
The outcome is an uncomplicated four-step routine you can adopt morning and night to keep your skin balanced, clear, and free of excess shine.
The best skin care routine for oily skin
- Cleanse with an exfoliating face wash twice daily.
- Apply a toner that includes salicylic, glycolic, or lactic acid.
- Treat your skin using benzoyl peroxide or retinol.
- Moisturize morning and night with a light, non-greasy moisturizer.
Step 1: Cleanse in the a.m. and p.m.
The cornerstone of any skin care routine is cleansing your face.
“If your skin tends to be oily, you can usually tolerate more frequent cleansing,” said Sandra Lee, founder of SLMD Skincare, better known as Dr. Pimple Popper.
“While most people should wash their face morning and night, it’s particularly vital for those with oily skin to perform a thorough cleanse in the morning,” Lee added.
Even if your skin feels clean from the previous night, Lee points out that overnight your skin sheds cells and produces oils.
That’s why using an effective exfoliating cleanser both in the morning and at night is advised. Lee prefers a wash that contains salicylic acid.
Step 2: Use a toner
After your skin is cleared of makeup, grime, and oil, follow up with an exfoliating toner that contains one of the following:
- salicylic acid
- glycolic acid
- lactic acid
Step 3: Treat your skin
This step will vary depending on your particular skin issues.
If you’re prone to breakouts, use benzoyl peroxide or sulfur during the day to help reduce oiliness and prevent pimples. At night, a retinol product can help keep pores unobstructed and promote a healthy glow.
Those with oilier skin may have a long-term advantage. “If you have more natural oils, you’re likely to stave off wrinkles and fine lines a little longer than someone with dry skin,” Lee noted.
Step 4: Moisturize in the a.m. and p.m.
Moisturizing is essential even for oily skin.
Some assume that oily skin means you can skip moisturizer, but that’s not true.
Every skin type needs hydration, but if your skin is oily, be selective about the formula you choose.
Seek a moisturizer that is:
- lightweight
- oil-free
- noncomedogenic
- water-based
Any moisturizer made for acne-prone skin should generally fit these guidelines.
For acne
Acne and oily skin commonly occur together. One major challenge for oily skin when cleansing is removing dirt, sebum, and bacteria without stripping away necessary moisture.
Salicylic acid helps clear clogged pores and prevents new breakouts. It reduces pimples by lowering inflammation and shedding dead skin cells.
Benzoyl peroxide can also be beneficial, though it may dry or irritate skin, so if you opt for a product containing it, begin slowly and monitor for irritation.
If topical treatments like benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid don’t work for you, consult a dermatologist about an oral medication called isotretinoin (Accutane/Roaccutane).
Some women also notice improvements in oiliness and acne when using certain contraceptive pills.
»MORE:How to get rid of pimples FASTNatural ingredients for oily skin
The word “natural” can mean different things to different consumers in skin care.
Many products marketed for oily skin are labeled “natural,” but keep in mind that this designation isn’t tightly regulated.
If you prefer home remedies, honey is a potential option for oily skin because of its antibacterial and antiseptic qualities. Oatmeal is another pantry ingredient that may help calm inflammation and absorb surplus oil.
Jojoba oil provides hydration and is noncomedogenic, so it won’t clog pores.
Keep it cheap
Good news — treating oily skin doesn’t have to be expensive.
There are plenty of budget-friendly over-the-counter options. If you’re watching costs, search for drugstore products that include proven active ingredients.
And remember to read product reviews before buying.
For men
Surprise! Managing oily skin is the same for men, with one key exception: unless you have a uterus, you can’t use oral contraceptives to address acne.
Things to avoid
Experts suggest steering clear of the following habits.
Forgetting to blot away excess oil
If your skin appears shiny throughout the day, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends blotting papers to manage excess oil.
Gently press a blotting sheet against your skin for several seconds to absorb oil. Reapply as needed during the day.
Skipping cleansing after exercise
In addition to your morning and evening regimen, the AAD advises washing your face after workouts. This is particularly important if you won’t shower right away.
Cleaning your face removes sweat, oil, and debris accumulated during exercise. It doesn’t need to be complicated — just cleanse with your usual face wash and apply a light moisturizer.
The sooner you can do this post-exercise, the better.
Picking the wrong products
Be careful when selecting skin care items.
Avoid formulas containing alcohol, as they can trigger increased oil production, and steer clear of heavy or greasy substances like cocoa butter, shea butter, and petroleum jelly.
Skipping sunscreen
Protecting your skin from the sun is an essential part of any routine, no matter your skin type.
When outdoors (or even in a car or near a window), use sunscreen with at least SPF 30. To simplify your routine, consider a daily moisturizer that includes SPF so you’re consistently protected.
Sunscreens containing titanium dioxide or zinc oxide can be less likely to provoke acne.
Safety
Some products for oily skin, such as benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid, may cause irritation. It’s important to follow usage directions.
Oral medications like isotretinoin should only be taken under a dermatologist’s supervision.
When to contact a dermatologist
Oily skin and breakouts can be distressing. If over-the-counter options haven’t helped, it may be time to consult a dermatologist. What constitutes excessive oiliness varies from person to person.
If oily skin is affecting your well-being, seeking professional advice is perfectly reasonable.
»MORE:Side effects of Isotretinoin (Accutane)Frequently asked questions about oily skin
Can oily skin types only use oil-free products?
It may sound odd, but lightweight oils in some products can actually benefit oily skin and help regulate sebum production.
The oil-cleansing method can help lift sebum from pores and reduce breakouts.
Are grainy scrubs safe for oily skin, or will they trigger breakouts?
It’s wise to avoid abrasive grainy scrubs because they can irritate skin. Products with chemical exfoliants like AHAs and BHAs are often a better choice.
How can those with oily skin manage enlarged pores?
You may see many items claiming to shrink pores, but the only way to truly reduce pore size is to lower oil production. The medication that accomplishes that is oral isotretinoin.
Does washing your face more often help or hurt oily skin?
Over-cleansing, especially with harsh products, can dry and irritate skin, potentially prompting more oil production. Stick to cleansing in the morning and night, and after exercise.
Can makeup clog pores and worsen oily skin?
Makeup can exacerbate oily, acne-prone skin in some cases. But if you choose noncomedogenic makeup and apply it with clean brushes and hands, it shouldn’t be a problem.
»MORE:How often should you exfoliate your face?Takeaway
If you have oily skin, following a consistent daily routine is the best approach to minimize breakouts and control shine. Cleansing, toning, treating, and moisturizing both morning and night are the essential steps.
Picking the right products, using sunscreen, blotting excess oil, and washing your face after exercising can also reduce oiliness and help maintain clear, healthy skin.
If over-the-counter measures aren’t effective, working with a dermatologist is the most reliable way to address stubborn concerns.
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