How to Manage Oily Skin Like a Pro [Your Ultimate Guide]

Managing oily skin can feel like a constant battle - trust me I've been there before.

The constant shine that emerges almost instantly after cleansing...

The disco-ball glow that everyone seems to love, except you...

Your make-up doesn't stand a chance.

I think you get it!

From midday shine to frequent breakouts, it's easy to get frustrated. But with the right skincare routine and lifestyle adjustments, you can manage oily skin like a pro. In this guide, I'll be dropping tips, products, and best practices to keep your skin looking fresh and balanced.

So, What's the Cause of This Oily Skin?

Oily skin is primarily caused by an overproduction of sebum (your skin’s natural oils). While sebum is necessary to keep the skin hydrated and healthy, too much of it can lead to clogged pores, acne, and a shiny complexion. Common factors that contribute to oily skin include:

• Genetics: If your parents have oily skin, chances are you will too.
• Hormones: Fluctuations in hormones, especially during puberty, pregnancy, or your menstrual cycle, can trigger excess oil production.
• Climate: Hot and humid environments can make oily skin even worse.
• Skincare products: Using products that are too heavy or rich for your skin type can contribute to excess oil. Or even skipping out on essentials like moisturizers can cause an influx of oil production.

Alrighty!  Now that you know the causes, let's dive into actionable steps to manage your oily skin effectively.

Step 1: Cleanse Your Skin Twice a Day

Cleansing is the foundation of any skincare routine, but it's especially important for oily skin. Wash your face twice a day—once in the morning and once at night—to remove excess oil, dirt, and impurities that clog pores. Choose a gentle, foaming cleanser with ingredients like:

• Salicylic acid: Helps exfoliate the skin and unclog pores.
• Tea tree oil: Has natural antibacterial properties to fight acne without over-drying the skin.

Pro Tip: Avoid over-washing, as it can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to even more oil production.

Step 2: Exfoliate Regularly (But Not Too Much)

Exfoliating is crucial for oily skin to remove dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores. Use a gentle exfoliant 1-2 times a week to avoid irritation. Look for chemical exfoliants with ingredients like:

• Glycolic acid: Helps dissolve dead skin cells and reduce the appearance of large pores.
• Lactic acid: A gentler option that exfoliates while keeping the skin hydrated.

Or opt for a gentle cleansing powder that contains enzymes to gently buff away dead skin cells.

Pro Tip: Avoid harsh physical exfoliants like scrubs with large beads, as they can irritate the skin and cause more oil production.

Step 3: Hydrate with a Lightweight Moisturizer

Contrary to popular belief, oily skin still needs moisture. Skipping moisturizer can actually cause your skin to produce more oil to compensate for the lack of hydration. Opt for lightweight, oil-free, and non-comedogenic (pore-clogging) moisturizers designed for oily or acne-prone skin. Look for ingredients like:

• Hyaluronic acid: Hydrates the skin without adding any extra oil.
• Niacinamide: Helps regulate sebum production and soothe inflammation.

Pro Tip: Gel-based moisturizers are a great option for oily skin because they absorb quickly and don’t leave a greasy residue.

Step 4: Use Oil-Controlling Products

Incorporating products specifically formulated for oily skin can help keep the shine under control throughout the day. Look for mattifying primers, oil-absorbing powders, and toners that contain:

• Witch hazel: Acts as a natural astringent to reduce oiliness.
• Clay: Helps absorb excess oil and detoxify the skin.
• Charcoal: Deep cleans and draws out impurities from the pores.

Pro Tip: Blotting papers are a quick fix to soak up excess oil without disrupting your makeup during the day.

Step 5: Sunscreen is Non-Negotiable

Sunscreen is essential for every skin type, but if you have oily skin, finding the right one can be tricky. Choose a lightweight, oil-free sunscreen that won’t clog pores or add shine. Look for formulas labeled as broad-spectrum and non-comedogenic to protect against UV rays without exacerbating oil production.

Pro Tip: Powder sunscreens are a great option for reapplying SPF throughout the day without adding extra shine.

Step 6: Watch Your Diet

Diet can play a role in the health of your skin. While there's no definitive "one size fits all" diet for oily skin, some foods are known to trigger oil production and breakouts. Consider reducing your intake of:

• Sugary foods and drinks
• Dairy products
• Fried and greasy foods

Instead, focus on a diet rich in:

• Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts to help reduce inflammation.
• Antioxidants: Found in berries, spinach, and nuts to promote healthy skin.
• Water-rich foods: Cucumbers, watermelon, and celery can help keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.

Step 7: Keep Stress in Check

Stress causes the body to release more cortisol, which can lead to increased oil production and breakouts. Incorporating stress-relief techniques like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise into your daily routine can help keep your skin calm and clear.

Final Thoughts

Managing oily skin doesn't have to be overwhelming. By following these expert-approved tips, you can control oil production, reduce breakouts, and achieve a balanced, healthy complexion. Remember, consistency is key—stick to your skincare routine, eat a balanced diet, and manage stress for the best results.

Looking for personalized skincare advice? Book a virtual skin consultation and let a licensed esthetician help you create a custom routine tailored to your skin’s unique needs.  That esthetician would be me, Frankie (hi, there!).

xo, Frankie - chat soon!