The best skincare routine for oily skin is gentle, not harsh: a mild foaming cleanser up to twice a day, a light oil-free moisturiser, and a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or more every morning. Choose products labelled oil-free and non-comedogenic, and add an ingredient such as salicylic acid slowly, a few times a week at first. Stripping the skin with strong washes and scrubs tends to make it look worse.
Shine by lunchtime, make-up that slides and pores you can see in the mirror: oily skin can be frustrating. The good news is that oil also keeps skin supple, and the American Academy of Dermatology notes that people with oily skin tend to have thicker skin and fewer wrinkles. The aim is balance, not a squeaky-clean, tight feeling. For the basics every skin type shares, see our guide to a good skin care routine.
Morning Routine for Oily Skin
- Gentle foaming or gel cleanser. Massage with fingertips, rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry. No scrubbing.
- Light treatment (optional). A niacinamide or salicylic acid product if your skin tolerates it.
- Oil-free gel or lotion moisturiser. Skin still needs hydration, even when it looks shiny.
- Sunscreen, SPF 30 or higher. Look for fragrance-free and oil-free formulas; mineral filters such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are less likely to trigger spots.
Evening Routine for Oily Skin
- Cleanse to remove sunscreen, make-up and the day's oil. Be thorough, not rough.
- Exfoliating treatment, two or three nights a week. Salicylic acid is a good fit because it works inside pores. Stop or cut back if your skin becomes irritated.
- Light moisturiser to finish, especially on nights you use an active ingredient.
Not sure which layer goes where? Our guide to the order to apply skincare products covers every step.
What to Look For on the Label
| Look for | Why it helps |
|---|---|
| Non-comedogenic | Formulated not to clog pores, the most useful claim for oily and spot-prone skin |
| Oil-free | Moisturises without adding extra oil to the surface |
| Salicylic, glycolic or lactic acid | Can reduce oiliness and congestion, but may be too harsh if used daily from the start |
| Gel, lotion or fluid textures | Lighter than creams and less likely to feel heavy |
| Matte, water-based make-up | Helps control shine through the day |
Habits That Make Oily Skin Worse
Harsh Washes
A face wash that is too strong irritates skin and can trigger more oil, not less.
Scrubbing
Rubbing hard, even to remove make-up, inflames skin and makes it look worse.
Skipping Moisturiser
Dehydrated skin can look and feel oilier. A light moisturiser keeps things balanced.
Touching Your Face
Hands spread oil, dirt and bacteria. Touch your face only to cleanse or apply products, with clean hands.
Shine on the go: press a blotting paper on oily areas for a few seconds instead of rubbing, which only spreads the oil around. These tips follow the American Academy of Dermatology's advice on oily skin.
A Cleanser Made for Oily Skin
Clarifying Facial Gel Cleanser by BYMANYC New York
An aloe-based gel cleanser for normal to oily skin that turns into a light foam to lift away impurities and excess sebum. The brand describes it as cleansing without stripping or irritating, which is exactly the gentle approach oily skin needs. It is Ecocert COSMOS Natural certified and vegan.
View ProductOily skin with lots of spots? If you have painful, deep or widespread spots, or acne leaving marks, speak to a pharmacist or GP. Over-the-counter products work best on mild breakouts, and effective prescription treatments are available.
Shop Skin Care
Gel cleansers, light moisturisers and treatments for oily and combination skin.
Shop Skin CareFrequently Asked Questions
Should I moisturise if I have oily skin?
Yes. Oily skin still needs hydration. Choose a light, oil-free, non-comedogenic gel or lotion so it does not feel heavy.
How often should I wash oily skin?
Up to twice a day and after sweating. Washing more often, or with a harsh product, can irritate skin and make it look oilier.
Is salicylic acid good for oily skin?
It can help, as it reduces oiliness and unclogs pores. It can also dry or irritate, so start a few times a week and cut back if your skin reacts.
What sunscreen is best for oily skin?
A broad-spectrum, oil-free and fragrance-free sunscreen of SPF 30 or more. Formulas with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are less likely to cause breakouts.
Sources: American Academy of Dermatology, How to control oily skin.