Oily skin is a skin type characterised by excess oil production. People with oily skin tend to have larger pores and a shinier, thicker skin texture. Oily skin is prone to acne and other types of breakouts because the excess oil can clog pores and trap bacteria.
Oily skin tends to be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, hormonal changes, and certain medications. It is more common in people who live in hot, humid climates or who have a family history of oily skin.
If you have oily skin, it is important to use sebum reducing skincare products and to cleanse your skin regularly to remove excess oil and prevent breakouts. It is also important to use a light, oil-free moisturiser to hydrate your skin without adding excess oil. Using a toner and exfoliating your skin can also help control oil production and keep your pores clean.

Here is a skincare routine you can follow if you have oily skin:
- Cleanse your skin twice a day, in the morning and at night, with a gentle, sebum controlling cleanser. Avoid using harsh, stripping cleansers as they can disrupt your skin’s natural pH balance and lead to even more oil production.
- After cleansing, use a toner to help remove any remaining impurities and balance your skin’s pH. Look for toners that are formulated for oily skin.
- Apply a light moisturiser to hydrate your skin without making it feel greasy.
- Use a facial mask once or twice a week to deep clean and control oil production. Volcanic ash and clay masks or masks with charcoal are great options for oily skin.
- Exfoliate your skin once or twice a week to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. Avoid using physical exfoliants (such as scrubs) and opt for chemical exfoliants (such as alpha hydroxy acids or beta hydroxy acids) instead.
- Always wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 during the day to protect your skin from damaging UV rays.
Remember to be gentle when cleansing and exfoliating your skin and to not overdo it. Stripping your skin of its natural oils can lead to more oil production in the long run.
Check out our dedicated Oily Skin Skincare category for products suitable for oily skin.