How to Treat Oily Skin Leave a comment

Don’t you just wish that your complexion looked glowy, not greasy? Excess oil on the skin leaves many of us concerned with breakouts, an overly shiny face and the stress of our makeup sliding off within hours. The good news? It’s possible to get oily skin under control. If you’re wondering about the best skin care products for you, we have the ultimate oily skin care routine, complete with Eminence Organic Skin Care product recommendations. But first, let’s find out if you have oily skin.

5 Oily Skin Symptoms you May Notice

Take a glance at the following symptoms of oily skin:

1. Skin Is Greasy to the Touch 

Do you have to use blotting paper or a tissue to remove excess oil? If so, you most likely have oily skin. This type of skin can be attributed to the sebaceous glands under your pores, which produce natural oils called sebum. Sebum keeps your skin healthy and protected, but if your skin is greasy to the touch, the sebaceous glands are working overtime producing excess oil.  

2. A Shiny-Looking Appearance 

You know you have oily skin if your complexion leans shiny, even a short time after washing your face. If your T-zone (the forehead, nose and chin) is where that shine shows up, check that oily skin box.  

3. You Have Large Pores

Do you have large, obvious pores around the nose? Are your pores very frequently clogged? These are additional signs of an oily skin type. 

4. Your Skin Soaks up Makeup Quickly

Makeup may look cakey or unblended for dry skin types, but for oily skin types, makeup acts differently. It can absorb into the skin surface and break down, leading to a patchy or uneven look, because the excess oil produced by the skin dissolves the makeup. This is a common challenge for people with oily skin, as the oil can interfere with the makeup’s ability to adhere and stay in place. You may find yourself powdering excessively to lock everything in, but that’s usually just a temporary solution.   

5. Acne Breakouts & Blackheads 

Probably no surprise here, but since oily complexions have enlarged pores that easily clog, oily skin types often suffer from blackheads and breakouts. 

The Ultimate Oily Skin Care Routine

One of the best ways to tackle oily skin is through your skin care routine. According to Dr. Hooman Khorasani, Dermatologic and Cosmetic Surgeon, oily skin produces more oil which leads to side effects like acne breakouts and a consistent sheen across the face. Here are the steps and best skin care products we recommend to keep your oily skin looking fresh and matte:

Avoid Over-Cleansing 

“To combat oily skin, many people make the mistake of over-cleaning, which doesn’t necessarily stop oil production but can lead to drying out the skin,” says Dr. Khorasani. It seems logical that washing your face would help remove excess oil, but avoid over-cleansing so that you don’t remove the skin’s natural barrier. 

Choose A Gel or Foaming Cleanser

The cleanser you choose is crucial. For oily skin types, select cleansers that are in gel or foam formulations, advises Dr. Khorasani. You can choose a cleanser with a BHA like salicylic acid which will help dissolve excess oil.

Apply Lightweight Moisturizers 

Choosing moisturizers can be a challenge for oily skin but lightweight, gel-based or “matte” moisturizers can be a solution. Oil-absorbing sheets are always good to have on hand throughout the day as well, advises Dr. Khorasani.  

Why You Need an Oily Skin Care Routine 

Like any good habit, creating a consistent skin care routine for your oily skin has so many benefits. And when we’re talking about skin that’s on the oily side, a routine will help you manage excess sebum production, prevent breakouts and maintain a healthy skin barrier. Oily skin can lead to clogged pores, acne and excess shine, but a well-structured routine will help to balance oil levels without over-drying the skin which, by the way, can actually worsen oil production.   

Step-by-Step Guide to an Oily Skin Care Routine

1. Double-Cleanse 

One skin care myth we have to bust: Oil cleansers make skin more oily. In fact, they can actually improve the look of oily skin by absorbing excess sebum from its surface. Heidi Waldorf, MD tells Cosmopolitan: “It might sound counterintuitive, but oil cleansers were made for greasy skin types. The oil in the face wash attracts your skin’s sebum, so you can rinse both away without stripping your face.” One of the best ways to give oily skin a thorough, but gentle, clean is by adding a double-cleanse to your skin care routine. Start by removing excess oil and makeup with Stone Crop Cleansing Oil and then cleanse on a deeper scale with a gel or foam Eminence Organics cleanser. For oily skin, use a face wash formulated for problem skin like Clear Skin Probiotic Cleanser, which will help mattify the skin’s appearance.

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2. Exfoliate (Gently)

Exfoliation is one of the most important steps for oily skin — but don’t go overboard. Gentle exfoliation helps remove buildup on the skin’s surface while also unclogging and minimizing the look of pores.  

3. Moisturize (Yes, Really)

Adding moisture to already slick skin may seem like a bad idea, but it is an important step in caring for oily skin. In fact, lack of hydration can cause skin to produce even more sebum in an effort to maintain moisture. According to Dr. Khorasani: “Many patients are surprised to learn that proper hydration is essential for oily skin types — lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizers actually help normalize oil production. Remember, the goal isn’t to eliminate your skin’s natural oils entirely but rather to maintain equilibrium for healthier, more balanced skin.”

Stanley Kovak, MD concurs, telling SELF: “Believe it or not, a moisturizer will add moisture to the skin, minimizing the skin’s perception that it is too dry. Adding moisture to the skin actually helps reduce the oiliness because it helps slow down sebum production.” 

We recommend keeping oily skin hydrated and healthy by using a lightweight moisturizer that pulls double-duty to minimize pores and control oil. A few of our go-to moisturizers for oily skin inlcude:  

Clear Skin Probiotic Moisturizer, formulated with natural astringents like cucumber juice and willow bark extract. This award-winning moisturizer is perfect for complexions that range from normal to oily and are prone to problem skin. It tones and shrinks the look of pores, leaving your skin smooth and balanced. 
Bakuchiol + Niacinamide Moisturizer is a lightweight gel-cream that adds hydration without adding oil. It contains niacinamide, which helps reduce the appearance of pore size.  
​Another light option for radiant skin is our Mangosteen Gel Moisturizer. This unique pore-minimizing, hydrating formula begins as a dewy gel then beautifully melts into the skin for a smooth, matte finish. 

4. Use A Toner

Still feeling oily? Keep skin looking matte all day with the Lime Refresh Tonique. This invigorating mist is infused with natural astringents from citrus fruit to tighten pores, as well as green tea, which is rich in antioxidants and vitamins. 

Best Products for Oily Skin 

When it comes to choosing products for your oily skin, there are a few factors to keep in mind. As well as ingredients that mingle well with your skin type, it’s important to pay attention to formulas and instructions. Steering clear of cream-based cleansers, for example, can help with the oil factor. And a gel-based cleanser can do a great job of clearing up some of that oil, but overdoing it can leave your skin stripped. 

When choosing the right products, there are a few things to consider. Your goal is to find products that reduce shine, hydrate without clogging pores, help preserve the skin barrier and don’t overstrip your skin.  

Gel Cleansers

Like the name implies, gel cleaners tend to have a gel-like consistency, designed for unclogging pores while removing excess oil and acne-causing bacteria from the surface of your skin. As a result, gel cleansers are ideal for oily skin types to remove excess oil and minimize the appearance of pores by keeping the skin free of gunk. The Charcoal Exfoliating Gel Cleanser unclogs and deep cleans pores thanks to its star ingredient — charcoal. Charcoal actually draws out dirt and oil to help prevent clogged pores. Another antioxidant-rich ingredient in this formulation is blue matcha, which is known to improve the visible signs of aging (think fine lines and wrinkles).  

Some other gel cleansers we recommend for oily skin include the gentle Stone Crop Gel Wash, the lightweight Acne Advanced Cleansing Foam and the refreshing and purifying Kombucha Microbiome Foaming Cleanser. Anything gel or foam-based will be lighter and better-suited to an oily complexion.  

Oil-Free Moisturizers 

Adding moisturizer to an already-oily complexion can seem counterintuitive at best and scary at worst! But here’s the deal: If you withhold moisture from your skin — or even worse, dry it out with harsh products — sebaceous glands will try to compensate by pumping out even more oil. Break the unhappy cycle of oil production by hydrating your skin — choose a moisturizer that works for your skin type, keeping your complexion balanced and feeling soft. 

As with cleansers, a gel-based moisturizer is a good option to add hydration without oil. The Mangosteen Gel Moisturizer begins as a dewy gel then beautifully melts into the skin for a smooth, matte finish. It also minimizes the look of pores, which is probably on your to-do list anyway.  

Another moisturizer that will help treat your oily skin and leave a matte-yet-hydrated finish is the Acne Advanced Clarifying Hydrator. This ultra-lightweight hydrating lotion reduces the appearance of oily skin and diminishes shine, while time-release encapsulated salicylic acid reduces blemishes and breakouts.  

If you’re looking for a lightweight moisturizer that deeply hydrates the skin without adding to the oil, try the Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Hydrator. It leaves skin plump, refreshed and luminous. 

The award-winning Clear Skin Probiotic Moisturizer is perfect for complexions that range from normal to oily and are prone to problem skin. Keep your shiny spots at bay with ingredients like cucumber juice, tea tree and willow bark. This moisturizer tones and shrinks the look of pores, leaving your skin smooth and balanced. 

Mattifying Sunscreens 

One product that has come a long way in the fight against oily skin is sunscreen. Gone are the days of greasy, heavy formulas that leave skin clogged and shiny. New ingredients and formulations created specifically to combat oil and shine are becoming easier to find.

A must-have for touch-ups, the Sun Defense Minerals powder controls shine while providing SPF protection. It minimizes the look of excess oil and creates a lightweight, breathable layer that helps maintain moisture without feeling heavy or cakey. 

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Gentle Cleansing for Oily Skin

As mentioned, there’s sort of a Goldilocks sweet spot when it comes to cleansing oily skin. While too little cleansing won’t manage the excess oil, too much cleansing can overstrip the skin. Using the right product that will wash away impurities but leave skin balanced is a tight rope walk but it’s definitely doable. A gel cleanser at night is ideal, especially as the second step in a double-cleanse. If you’re also waking up oily, that same gel cleanser is a great option. If not, a gentle cleanser like the Mangosteen Daily Resurfacing Cleanser is a good option. It’s a milky gel that won’t overstrip the skin.

Toning & Balancing Oily Skin 

If you have oily skin, astringent toners can help get rid of excess oil. Astringent toners with botanicals can include natural ingredients like citrus fruits oils or juices to remove oil and help reduce the appearance of pores. For normal-to-oily skin types, spritzing on an astringent toner balances the skin and readies it for the day. Our Lime Refresh Tonique and Pineapple Refining Tonique are both great options, as they balance oil production and prepare skin for the next steps in the routine. 

How To Treat the Appearance of Oily Skin Breakouts

Oily skin is more prone to breakouts due to excess sebum production, which can clog pores and trap bacteria. The key to managing oily skin and minimizing breakouts is a consistent skin care routine combined with targeted treatments. Here’s how to do it:

1. Stick to a Consistent Skin care Routine 

Consistency is key for oily skin. Changing products frequently or skipping steps can disrupt your skin’s balance and lead to more breakouts. An effective oily skin routine should include:

Gentle Cleanser (twice daily): Look for a foaming or gel cleanser with salicylic acid or tea tree oil to dissolve excess oil and keep pores clear.
Toner: Choose an astringent toner with natural ingredients like citrus fruits oils or juices to remove oil and help reduce the appearance of pores.
Lightweight Moisturizer: Don’t skip this step! As mentioned, hydrated skin actually produces less oil. Go for formulas that are oil-free and non-comedogenic.  
Sunscreen (every morning): A broad-spectrum SPF is a non-negotiable, even on cloudy days. Choose a mattifying powder like our Sun Defense Minerals or opt for a gel-based formula that won’t clog pores.

2. Use Targeted Acne Treatments 

To treat active breakouts and prevent new ones: 

Spot Treatments: Benzoyl peroxide or sulfur-based spot treatments help reduce inflammation and kill acne-causing bacteria. Our Acne Advanced Clarifying Masque can be used all over the face, just on areas that are oily (like the T-zone) or directly on a problem spot.
Exfoliating Acids (2–3x per week): Salicylic acid (BHA) or glycolic acid (AHA) exfoliants clear dead skin cells and help prevent clogged pores. 
Clay Masks (1–2x per week): Clay helps absorb oil and detoxify pores. Look for masks with kaolin or bentonite clay. Our Acne Advanced clarifying Masque is made with three types of purifying clay combined to absorb oil and reduce shine, and our Charcoal & Black Seed Clay Masque is formulated with activated charcoal and black seed to unclog pores and absorb excess sebum, balancing skin while offering hydration.

3. Avoid Common Triggers 

Don’t Over-Wash: Cleansing too often can strip the skin and cause rebound oil production. 
Be Careful With Harsh Products: Alcohol-based products or abrasive scrubs can irritate and worsen breakouts. As mentioned, there’s a fine line between doing enough and doing too much when it comes to controlling oil. If you’re concerned about overdoing it, start slow and see how your skin reacts.
Hands Off: Touching or picking at your face can spread bacteria and lead to scarring. 

4. Lifestyle Tips That Support Clear Skin 

Clean Pillowcases Regularly: Your pillowcase is in contact with your skin for hours on end. This nightly face time results in a buildup of oils, dirt and sweat, not to mention thousands of skin cells! 
Routine Is Key: Be consistent, stick to your morning and evening regimens.  
Wash Your Face After Sweating: Letting sweat linger on your skin, especially over makeup and other dirt and oil from the day, is a recipe for disaster. Make sure you factor that in and make time for a quick wash after you hit the gym.  
Never Go To Bed With Makeup On: It goes without saying, but we’re saying it: Wearing makeup to bed is never a good idea. No matter how tired you are at the end of the day, spend five minutes cleaning your face before hitting the sheets. Your skin will thank you.  
Maintain a Balanced Diet: Reduce your intake of high-glycemic foods and dairy if you notice breakouts worsening. While diet isn’t always the culprit when it comes to oily skin, it can be a factor. Stick to whole foods like fresh produce, lean meats, fatty fish, beans, nuts and seeds whenever possible. And keep salt and alcohol to a minimum.  

Frequently Asked Questions About Oily Skin Care Routines

How often should I follow an oily skincare routine? For best results, consistency is key. It’s called a routine for a reason, and sticking to a regular regimen is recommended if you want to see and maintain results. Once you get the hang of the steps and figure out which products work best for you, it won’t seem like such a chore.

Can I use oil-based products in an oily skincare routine? This seems like a trick question, but the truth is, some oils are okay for oily skin. Non-comedogenic oils like jojoba, almond and grape seed won’t clog your pores. And you may have heard that oil attracts oil, which means that oils can effectively dissolve and remove excess sebum, makeup and other impurities from the skin without stripping away the amount that’s supposed to be there.

What’s the best sunscreen for oily skin? The best sunscreen for oily skin is one that is oil-free and offers a matte finish to help control shine throughout the day. Our Sun Defense Minerals are lightweight, easy to reapply as the day goes on.  

What is the most common mistake people with oily skin make in their routines? According to Dr. Khorasani: “The most pervasive misconception I encounter among my patients with oily skin is the tendency to over-cleanse and strip the skin in an attempt to reduce shine. This aggressive approach fundamentally disrupts the skin’s homeostasis, triggering the sebaceous glands to produce even more oil as a compensatory mechanism. Instead of harsh, alcohol-based products or excessive washing, I recommend a balanced approach. Try gentle cleansing twice daily with a mild foaming cleanser containing ingredients like salicylic acid or niacinamide that regulate sebum without compromising barrier function.”

Oily skin can be a bit of an inconvenience, but it’s not the end of the world. When managed properly with the right products and routines, it can look and feel great. Are you unsure about your skin type or looking for products that will work best with your oily skin? Visit your nearest Eminence Spa Partner for a consultation.