Skincare routine for oily skin
Oily skin makes more sebum, so it shines, especially on the forehead, nose and chin, and pores can look larger. It needs fewer products than most people think: a gel cleanser, a light moisturizer and daily sunscreen.
This is a general example, not your routine. The products that suit you depend on your age, concerns, ingredients you avoid and budget. The free quiz picks them for you in about two minutes.
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What oily skin needs
The goal is to control shine without stripping the skin. Harsh cleansers and skipping moisturizer can leave skin tight while it stays just as oily. Light, oil-free textures keep it comfortable, and sunscreen protects it like any other skin type.
Morning routine
- 1
Cleanser
Gel cleanser
Removes excess oil without over-drying.
Twice a day is enough. Washing more often doesn't reduce oil and can irritate the skin.
- ExampleClinique Anti- Blemish Solutions Cleansing Gel 125ml25,52 €Notino →
- 2
Moisturizer
Lightweight gel cream
Locks in moisture and strengthens the skin barrier.
Still needed with oily skin. Skipping it doesn't reduce shine and can leave skin tight. A light, oil-free gel cream is enough.
- ExampleLa Roche-Posay Effaclar A.Z. Gel Cream 40ml26,24 €Pharmacy Online →
- 3
Sunscreen
SPF 30–50, broad spectrum
Essential every day, even when it's cloudy.
Choose a fluid or gel texture labelled matte or non-comedogenic, so sunscreen doesn't add shine.
- ExampleEucerin Sun Oil Control Cream-Gel SPF50+ 50ml20,31 €Notino →
Evening routine
- 1
Makeup & sunscreen remover optional
Micellar water or a light cleansing oil
If you wore makeup or sunscreen, dissolve it first with one of these, then use your cleanser (double cleanse). On bare-skin days you can skip this step.
- ExampleBanila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm 100ml15,21 €Notino →
- 2
Cleanser
The same cleanser as in the morning
Removes what's left of the day and preps your skin for your night care.
- 3
Moisturizer
The same moisturizer as in the morning
A simple moisturizer works morning and night — your skin doesn't need a separate night cream.
What to avoid
- Stripping cleansers and alcohol-heavy toners that leave the skin squeaky.
- Heavy, rich creams and thick oils on the face.
- Scrubbing hard, or washing many times a day.
- Piling up several strong active ingredients at once to fight shine.
Make it yours
If you also have enlarged pores, blackheads, breakouts or dark spots, the quiz adds a treatment for it, and it leaves out any ingredient you want to avoid. It also suggests an eye cream if you choose an eye-area concern.
Pregnant or breastfeeding? Some ingredients, such as retinoids, are not recommended. The example routine above contains none, and the quiz asks about it and leaves them out of your routine. Check any product with your doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my skin oily?
Mostly genetics and hormones; heat and humidity add to it. Skincare can't change how much oil your skin makes, but the right products help control shine and keep pores clear.
Do I need a moisturizer if my skin is oily?
Yes. A light, oil-free moisturizer keeps the skin barrier healthy. Skipping it doesn't reduce oil.
What helps with enlarged pores and blackheads?
Salicylic acid (BHA) gets into the pores and helps keep them clear, and niacinamide can help with shine. The quiz adds one of them if you choose enlarged pores, blackheads or oily shine.
Is oily skin the same as acne-prone skin?
Not always: oily skin can be perfectly clear. If you get regular breakouts, choose “Acne-prone” in the quiz. If breakouts are painful, deep or leave marks, see a dermatologist.
Chosen only by the quiz's own rules: no brand or shop pays to be included. Prices are from shops in Greece and are checked daily. General information, not medical advice.