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Let’s just be real dealing with oily skin can be frustrating. You wash your face in the morning, but by midday, you’re already blotting your T-zone in the bathroom. I totally get it. But here’s the thing: your oily skin isn’t out to sabotage you. Once you figure out the right routine, it gets way easier to manage.
What’s happening?
The oil on your face comes from tiny glands in your skin. When they go into overdrive, you end up with that constant shine. Usually, it’s hormones, humidity, or sometimes using products that don’t suit your skin. And here’s the twist—washing your face too much or skipping moisturizer actually makes your skin oilier. We all think it’ll help, but really, it just makes things worse.
The Morning Routine
Gentle Cleanser
Choose one that’s oil-free and non-comedogenic (meaning it won’t clog your pores). COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Face Cleanser or CeraVe Acne Treatment Face Wash are both dermatologist favorites. Use lukewarm water, hot water can actually trigger your skin to make more oil.
Toner
It’s a game changer for oily skin. Niacinamide helps control oil and shrinks the look of pores. And don’t skip moisturizer—seriously. If your skin gets too dry, it’ll just make more oil to make up for it. Stick with gel-based moisturizers like AXIS-Y Dark Spot Correcting Glow Toner. They absorb quickly, feel light, and won’t leave you looking greasy.
Sunscreen
Choose a mattifying sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Innisfree Daily UV Defense SPF 36 work well, they keep shine down while protecting your skin.
The Night Routine
Double Cleanser
At night, make sure to remove all your makeup and sunscreen. Cleanse again with the same gentle cleanser. Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil and COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Face Cleanser are combo perfect.
Serum
This is a good time for a serum go for one with niacinamide or zinc if you’re dealing with oily skin. COSRX 15% Niacinamide Face Serum is a great option for fighting oil and blemishes without breaking the bank.
Moisturizer
After that, use your lightweight moisturizer again. You don’t need a totally different nighttime routine. What matters most is being consistent. CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Gel are our recommendation.
The Weekly Routine
Once or twice a week, treat yourself to a clay mask look for kaolin or bentonite clay. They absorb extra oil without being too harsh. Also, exfoliate gently once a week with something that has salicylic acid or glycolic acid to keep your pores clear. Innisfree Super Volcanic Clay Masks and COSRX BHA Toner Pads are our recommendation.
The Mistakes to Avoid
Whatever you do, don’t wash your face more than twice a day. Over-washing just encourages your skin to make even more oil.
Avoid harsh cleansers that leave your skin feeling squeaky clean they’ll strip your skin and make things worse.
Always use moisturizer, even if it feels odd at first. Your skin needs it.
Conclusion
Keeping oily skin in check doesn’t have to be complicated. Cleanse gently twice a day, hydrate with lightweight products, always wear sunscreen, and stick with your routine. Give your skin a few weeks to adjust.
Honestly, oily skin isn’t all bad. It tends to age slower and get fewer wrinkles. Your skin isn’t broken—it just needs a little more care. Start simple, pay attention to how your skin responds, and adjust as needed. You’re in charge.
What’s worked for you? Everyone’s skin is unique, so listen to yours and give it a chance. You’ve got this.