The Best Skincare Routine for Oily Skin

If your skin looks shiny (especially by midday), has visible pores, and gets congested easily, you likely have oily skin. Not sure? Check our guide to the 5 skin types or ask Lumi. The biggest myth about oily skin is that it needs to be dried out — in reality, gentle balance works far better. Here is how.

What oily skin needs

Oily skin produces more sebum, so it benefits from lightweight, water-based textures and ingredients that help balance and keep pores clear — without stripping. Ingredients to look for include niacinamide, gentle BHA (salicylic acid), and lightweight hydration such as hyaluronic acid. Stripping the skin often backfires and can lead to more oil.

The morning routine

1. Gentle gel cleanser — a low-pH gel that cleans without over-drying.
2. Balancing toner — a hydrating toner, optionally with niacinamide. Look for: a heartleaf or niacinamide toner.
3. Lightweight serum — niacinamide to help balance the look of shine and pores.
4. Gel moisturiser — yes, oily skin needs moisture too — just keep it light.
5. Sunscreen (SPF) — a lightweight, non-greasy formula, every day.

The evening routine

1. Oil cleanser — oil dissolves oil; this melts away sunscreen and excess sebum.
2. Gel cleanser — the second step of the double cleanse.
3. Toner — rehydrate and prep.
4. BHA exfoliant — a few evenings a week, a gentle salicylic-acid product to help keep pores clear.
5. Light gel moisturiser — to keep the barrier comfortable overnight.

Extra tips for oily skin

• Don't skip moisturiser — skipping it can prompt the skin to produce even more oil.
• Introduce exfoliants gradually to avoid irritation.
• Summer: the peak season for shine — blotting paper and a light SPF help.

Ready-made routine

Our Start Here set for oily skin combines these balancing steps, as a Starter Set or a Complete Routine.

This article is for general informational purposes only and is not medical advice. For persistent or specific skin concerns, please consult a dermatologist.