Oily skin type

The Complete Skincare Routine for Oily Skin

Oily skin gets a bad reputation. Yes, it can mean shine, enlarged pores, and more frequent breakouts — but it also tends to age more slowly and tolerate actives better than other skin types. The goal isn't to eliminate oil. It's to balance it.

Here's how to build a routine that keeps oily skin clear, calm, and healthy.

Why Does Skin Get Oily?

Your sebaceous glands produce sebum — a natural oil that protects and lubricates the skin. In oily skin types, these glands are overactive, often due to genetics, hormones, humidity, or — ironically — over-stripping the skin with harsh products.

When you strip the skin too aggressively, it compensates by producing even more oil. This is why the "dry it out" approach usually backfires.

The Golden Rules for Oily Skin

  • Cleanse twice a day — not more. Over-cleansing triggers rebound oil production.
  • Always moisturise. Dehydrated oily skin overproduces sebum. A lightweight, oil-free moisturiser is essential.
  • Use non-comedogenic products. Look for this label on everything — it means the formula won't clog pores.
  • SPF every morning. Many people with oily skin skip SPF because it feels heavy. Choose a lightweight, mattifying formula instead.

Key Ingredients for Oily Skin

Niacinamide

The MVP for oily skin. Niacinamide regulates sebum production, minimises the appearance of pores, reduces redness, and fades post-acne marks — all without drying the skin out.

Salicylic Acid (BHA)

Oil-soluble, so it penetrates into pores to dissolve the sebum and dead skin cells that cause congestion. Use 2–3 times a week in the evening to keep pores clear.

Green Tea Extract

A powerful antioxidant with sebum-regulating and anti-inflammatory properties. Particularly effective in cleansers and lightweight serums for oily skin.

→ Try: MOOYAM Green Tea Foam Cleanser — a gentle foaming cleanser that removes excess oil without stripping the skin barrier.

Lightweight Hyaluronic Acid

Oily skin still needs hydration. Hyaluronic acid delivers moisture without adding oil or heaviness — keeping skin balanced rather than tight and reactive.

→ Try: MOOYAM Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Serum

Your Daily Routine

Morning

  1. Gentle foaming cleanser — removes overnight sebum without stripping
  2. Niacinamide serum — sebum regulation and pore minimising
  3. Lightweight, oil-free moisturiser
  4. SPF 50+ — choose a mattifying or gel formula

→ Try: MOOYAM Niacinamide Brightening SPF 50+ Sunscreen — combines SPF protection with niacinamide for a mattifying, brightening finish.

Evening

  1. Cleanser — remove SPF, makeup, and the day's buildup
  2. BHA exfoliant (2–3x per week) — keeps pores clear
  3. Lightweight moisturiser or gel cream

What to Avoid

  • Heavy, occlusive oils and butters (coconut oil, shea butter) — these clog pores
  • Alcohol-heavy toners — they strip the skin and trigger rebound oiliness
  • Skipping moisturiser — this is the most common mistake with oily skin
  • Over-exfoliating — more isn't better; it damages your barrier and worsens oil production

Managing Shine During the Day

  • Use blotting papers to absorb excess oil without disturbing your SPF
  • A light dusting of setting powder over SPF can extend a matte finish
  • Avoid touching your face — it transfers bacteria and stimulates oil glands

Not sure which products are right for your oily skin? Chat with us — we'll help you build a routine that actually works.

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