Oily skin can be a blessing and a challenge all at the same time. On the one hand, the natural oils that your skin produces help to keep it moisturised and can delay visible signs of ageing like wrinkles. On the other, excess oil can lead to clogged pores, acne, and a perpetually shiny complexion.

How to know if you have oily skin

Recognizing oily skin is the first step in tailoring your skincare routine. Here are some telltale signs:

• Shiny appearance: If your skin looks shiny, especially in the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin), even after cleansing, you likely have oily skin.
• Frequent breakouts: Excess oil can clog pores, leading to blackheads, whiteheads, and acne.
• Visible pores: Enlarged pores are a common characteristic of oily skin, especially around the nose and cheeks.
• Makeup slipping off: If your makeup slides off your face by midday, it might be due to excess oil production.
• Oil blotting sheets: Do you find yourself using blotting sheets multiple times a day? That’s another clear sign of oily skin.

If these symptoms sound familiar, you likely have oily skin. Now let’s move on to the fun part—finding the right products!

Best products for oily skin

Oily skin thrives with products that help balance oil production without over-stripping the skin. Here’s what to look for:

Gentle cleanser

Opt for a foaming or gel-based cleanser with ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or tea tree oil. These help to break down excess sebum and prevent clogged pores.

Lightweight moisturizer

Yes, even oily skin needs moisturizer! Look for oil-free, non-comedogenic options with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin.

Oil-free sunscreen

A gel or water-based sunscreen with a matte finish is perfect for protecting your skin without adding to the shine.

Exfoliants

Use a chemical exfoliant, such as a BHA (beta hydroxy acid) like salicylic acid, to gently remove dead skin cells and keep pores clear. Aim for 2-3 times a week.

Clay masks

Incorporate a clay mask with ingredients like kaolin or bentonite to absorb excess oil and detoxify the skin.

Niacinamide serums

Niacinamide helps regulate oil production, minimize the appearance of pores, and calm inflammation.

Blotting papers

Keep these in your bag to tackle midday shine without disturbing your makeup.

Products to avoid when you’ve got oily skin

While some products may seem like a good idea, they can do more harm than good for oily skin. Here’s what to steer clear of:

Harsh scrubs

Physical exfoliants with large, gritty particles can irritate the skin and increase oil production.

Heavy creams and oils

Thick, occlusive products can clog pores and exacerbate shine. Avoid ingredients like coconut oil and petrolatum.

Alcohol-based toners

While these can initially make your skin feel less oily, they can strip the skin’s natural moisture barrier, leading to increased oil production as your skin tries to compensate.

Comedogenic ingredients

Be wary of products containing ingredients like isopropyl myristate or lanolin, as these can clog pores.

Matte foundations with drying ingredients

Some matte foundations contain ingredients like talc, which can over-dry the skin and cause your oil glands to go into overdrive.

Tips for managing oily skin

1. Stick to a routine: Consistency is key. Cleanse, tone, and moisturize daily.
2. Don’t skip moisturiser: Keeping your skin hydrated helps prevent it from producing excess oil.
3. Use lukewarm water: Hot water can strip the skin, causing it to produce more oil.
4. Double Cleanse: At night, start with an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup and sunscreen, followed by a gel or foaming cleanser.
5. Blot, don’t powder: Instead of piling on powder to reduce shine, use blotting papers to avoid a cakey look.

Remember, oily skin isn’t a flaw—it’s just your skin type, and with the right care, it can absolutely thrive!

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