Oily skin is one of the most common skin concerns. It presents some unique challenges, like a shiny complexion and acne breakouts.
The good news? With the right skin care routine and products, these issues can be less of a problem.
Step 1: Cleanse in the a.m. and p.m.
The most important step of any skin care routine is cleansing your skin. Though most people should be washing their face morning and night, it’s especially important for those with oily skin to give their face a complete cleanse in the morning.
Even though you might feel like your skin is still clean from the night before. During the night your skin is busy shedding skin cells and producing oils.
That’s why washing with a good exfoliating cleanser, both in the morning and evening, is recommended. Preferably use a cleanser or wash with salicylic acid.
This is going to really help clear away excess oil and dead skin to prevent buildup in the pores.
Step 2: Use a Toner
Once your skin is clean and free from any makeup, dirt, and oil, you should follow with an exfoliating toner that contains either:
Salicylic Acid
Glycolic Acid
Lactic Acid
Step 3: Treat your Skin
This step will depend on your specific skin concerns. But in general, if you’re prone to acne, Lee says you should be using benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid in the daytime to help curb oil production and prevent breakouts.
In the evening, use a retinol product to help keep pores clear and skin glowing.
Step 4: Moisturize in the a.m. and p.m.
Moisturizing is a very important step if you have oily skin.
There is some belief that if you have oily skin, you don’t need to or shouldn’t moisturize. But this couldn’t be further from the truth.
All skin types need moisturizer, but if you have oily skin, you should be more careful with what kind of moisturizer you’re using.
Look for a moisturizer that’s:
Lightweight
Free of oils
Water-based
Any moisturizer that’s formulated for acne-prone skin should meet these criteria.
Other steps to help with oily skin
Developing a daily skin care routine that works for you is the first step toward managing oily skin.
Once you’ve made this a habit, you may want to consider incorporating other, less frequent steps into your routine, like those outlined below.
Use blotting papers to absorb excess oil.
Wash after exercise.