Oily skin can be both a blessing and a challenge. While it can keep your skin looking youthful for longer, it can also lead to clogged pores, acne and an unwanted shiny complexion. If you’ve been struggling to find a skincare routine that balances oil production and keeps your skin healthy, you’ve come to the right place! This guide will walk you through the perfect skincare routine for oily skin, complete with tips, product recommendations and advice on mistakes to avoid.
1. Why Do You Have Oily Skin?
Oily skin is primarily caused by overactive sebaceous glands that produce too much sebum. While genetics play an important role, factors such as hormonal changes, stress, diet and poor skin care can make oiliness worse. The good news? With a consistent routine and the right products, you can control excess oil and keep your skin looking fresh and healthy.
2. Morning Routine for Oily Skin
Start your day with a simple yet effective routine to cleanse and protect your skin:
1. Gentle cleanser
Avoid harsh cleansers that strip your skin of natural oils, which can lead to overproduction of sebum. Opt for a gel-based or foaming cleanser with salicylic acid or tea tree oil.
Recommended products:
1. Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash
2. Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser
2. Use a toner
Use an alcohol-free toner to control oil and minimise the appearance of pores. Look for ingredients such as niacinamide or witch hazel.
Recommended products:
1.Thayers Witch Hazel Toner
2.The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toner
3. Lightweight moisturiser with SPF
Yes, even oily skin needs a moisturiser! Choose a non-comedogenic, gel-based moisturiser with SPF to hydrate and protect your skin from sun damage.
Recommended products:
1. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-Cream SPF 30
2. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Moisturiser SPF 60
3. Night Routine for Oily Skin
Your evening routine should focus on deep cleansing and nourishing the skin to repair and rejuvenate it overnight.
1. Double cleanse
Start with an oil-based cleanser to remove sunscreen and makeup, followed by a water-based cleanser to remove impurities.
Recommended products:
Clinique Take the Day Off Facial Cleanser
COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
2. Exfoliate (2-3 times per week)
Exfoliating with a BHA such as salicylic acid will help unclog pores and reduce acne. Avoid over-exfoliation to avoid irritation.
Recommended products:
Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Inkey List Salicylic Acid Exfoliant
3. Hydrating Serum
A lightweight, non-greasy serum with hyaluronic acid or niacinamide can help balance oil production and keep skin hydrated.
Recommended products:
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
CosRx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
4. Oil-free night moisturiser
Lock in moisture with a lightweight moisturiser that won’t clog pores.
Recommended products:
Clean & Clear Dual Action Moisturiser
CeraVe PM Facial Moisturiser
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4. Essential Tips for Managing Oily Skin
1. Don’t skip moisturiser: Skipping moisturiser can cause your skin to produce even more oil. Always choose a light, non-greasy option.
2. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to maintain your skin’s moisture balance.
3. Avoid touching your face: This will prevent the transfer of bacteria and oil from your hands.
4. Use blotting paper: To quickly absorb excess oil during the day.
5. Stick to non-comedogenic products: Make sure all your skincare and makeup products are labelled as non-comedogenic.
5. Lifestyle Tips for Managing Oily Skin
Managing oily skin is more than just a skincare routine. Your daily habits, your environment and even your diet all play a part in keeping excess oil at bay.
1. Watch what you eat
What you eat affects the health of your skin. Avoid oily, fatty and processed foods as they can trigger excess sebum production. Include foods rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, such as leafy greens, nuts and fish, to balance your skin.
2. Hydrate from within
Although oily skin may feel ‘moist’, it can still be dehydrated. Drinking at least 8-10 glasses of water a day will keep your skin hydrated and prevent your glands from overproducing oil to compensate for dryness.
3. Environmental protection
Pollution and humidity can worsen oil production. Use protective skin care products such as light sunscreen and avoid prolonged exposure to humid environments.
4. Avoid heavy make-up
Thick, occlusive makeup can clog pores and aggravate oily skin. Opt for lightweight, oil-free and non-comedogenic makeup products, and always remove makeup before bed.
6. Mistakes to Avoid
1. Overwashing: Stripping your skin of its natural oils leads to more oil production. Wash your face only twice a day.
2. Over-Exfoliating: Be gentle; too much exfoliation can irritate your skin and worsen oiliness.
3. Using Alcohol-Based Products: These can dry out your skin, triggering more oil production
7. Struggling With Persistent Skin Issues?
If you’re struggling with stubborn acne, blackheads or oily skin despite following a skincare routine, it may be time to see a specialist.
For expert advice and personalised skincare solutions, visit Skinfinity Aesthetics. Under the care of Dr. Priyanka Tambe, a renowned skin specialist in airoli, you can get tailored treatments designed to address your skin’s unique needs. Whether it’s chemical peels, advanced acne treatments, or advice on the best skincare regimen, you’re in trusted hands with Dr. Tambe.
FAQs About Oily Skin
Q: Can oily skin still be dehydrated?
A: Yes! Oily skin can lack water, which can lead to dehydration. Moisturising products are essential to balance your skin.
Q: What type of sunscreen is best for oily skin?
Opt for gel-based or matte sunscreens that are labelled as non-comedogenic.
Q: How can I tell if a product is non-comedogenic?
Check the label or ingredients list for pore-clogging ingredients such as heavy oils.