Face routine
Skincare routine for oily skin
Oily skin makes more sebum, the oil that protects skin. The goal isn't to strip it away, which can make skin feel worse, but to keep pores clear and shine under control with light, oil-free products.
Signs this is you
- Shiny by midday, all over the face
- Visible, enlarged pores
- Makeup slides or breaks up
- Prone to blackheads and breakouts
Why it happens
Oiliness is mostly genetic and hormonal. It can increase with heat and humidity, during your period, and in pregnancy. Over-washing and harsh products can make skin feel oilier.
The routine
Morning
- 1
Gel or foaming cleanser
A gentle, oil-free cleanser. Wash twice a day and after sweating, not more.
Pregnancy-safe picks → - 2
- 3
Light moisturizer
Yes, oily skin needs it. Choose a gel or lotion labeled oil-free or non-comedogenic.
Pregnancy-safe picks → - 4
Night
- 1
- 2
Exfoliate 2–3 times a weekOptional
A leave-on acid (like glycolic or mandelic acid) helps keep pores clear.
Pregnancy-safe picks → - 3
What to look for
- Niacinamide
Helps balance oil and the look of pores.
- Glycolic acid
Exfoliates the surface so pores stay clearer.
- Zinc (zinc PCA)
Often used in oil-control products.
- Clay (kaolin)
Masks absorb excess oil; use once or twice a week.
- Hyaluronic acid
Hydrates without oil.
What to go easy on
- Harsh scrubs and stripping cleansers
Irritate skin without reducing oil for long.
- Heavy oils and butters
Can feel greasy and clog pores for some people.
- Washing more than twice a day
Dries and irritates skin.
Tips
- Use blotting papers during the day instead of washing again.
- Look for “non-comedogenic” or “oil-free” on moisturizers and sunscreens.
- Don't skip moisturizer; dehydrated skin can look oilier.
Pregnant or trying to conceive?
Oily skin and breakouts often increase in pregnancy. Salicylic acid (BHA), common in oil-control products, is rated Use caution; glycolic acid, azelaic acid, and niacinamide are pregnancy-safe by Jouaxia's ratings. Jouaxia rates retinoids (retinol, retinal, retinyl palmitate, adapalene) and hydroquinone Avoid, and salicylic acid and arbutin Use caution.
How Jouaxia rates ingredients →When to see a doctor
See a dermatologist if oiliness comes with painful, deep, or scarring breakouts, or with redness and flaking around the nose and eyebrows (which can be seborrheic dermatitis).
Common questions
- Does oily skin need moisturizer?
- Yes. A light, oil-free moisturizer keeps skin hydrated and comfortable. Skipping it can leave skin dehydrated and irritated, especially if you use acne products.
- Will drinking water make my skin less oily?
- No. Oil production is driven mostly by genes and hormones. Staying hydrated is good for you, but it won't change how much oil your skin makes.
More face routines
Sources
- American Academy of Dermatology — How to control oily skin
- American Academy of Dermatology — Face washing 101
- MotherToBaby — Topical acne treatments
- ACOG — Skin conditions during pregnancy
This guide is general information, not medical advice. If you're pregnant, trying to conceive, or have a skin, scalp, or vaginal health condition, check your routine with your doctor.