How to Get Rid of Oily Skin: Top Tips and Products

Tired of that mid-day shine takeover? If your skin constantly feels greasy or your makeup slides off by lunch, you’re likely dealing with oily skin. But don’t worry—it’s totally manageable.

This guide breaks down exactly how to get rid of oily skin with smart skincare tips, proven ingredients, and products that actually work. Whether your oiliness is caused by genetics, hormones, or the weather, we’ve got clear, expert-backed solutions.

Let’s get your glow under control—minus the grease.

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What Causes Oily Skin?

Let’s be real—nobody wakes up hoping their T-zone shines brighter than their highlighter. But before you battle the shine, it helps to know why your skin is oilier than a slice of New York pizza.

Genetics and Hormonal Influence

If oily skin runs in your family, chances are your sebaceous glands are genetically programmed to work overtime. Puberty, periods, pregnancy, or starting (or stopping) birth control? Yep, hormones can dial oil production way up. Testosterone, in particular, stimulates those oil glands, which is why teens and adult women often notice a spike in skin slickness during hormonal swings.

Environmental Factors and Weather

Live somewhere hot and humid? Your oil glands are partying. High temps = more sweat and sebum. Cold, dry weather can also trick your skin into overproducing oil to compensate for lost moisture. The takeaway? Location matters.

Skincare Habits and Product Misuse

Ironically, trying too hard to de-grease your skin can make things worse. Harsh scrubs, alcohol-heavy toners, and skipping moisturizer can trigger your skin to pump out even more oil. Think of your skin like a stressed-out roommate—overdo it, and it’ll overreact.

Signs Your Skin is Producing Too Much Oil

Wondering if you’re in oily skin territory or just having a greasy moment?

Shiny Appearance by Midday

If your foundation starts melting off by lunch, and blotting papers become your bestie, that’s a telltale sign.

Enlarged Pores

Oily skin often comes with large, visible pores—especially around the nose, forehead, and cheeks. That’s because excess oil stretches them over time.

Frequent Breakouts or Acne

Oily skin doesn’t cause acne, but it creates the perfect breeding ground for breakouts. Excess sebum can trap dirt and bacteria in your pores—cue the pimples.

Daily Skincare Routine

Ready to build a routine that keeps shine in check without stripping your skin? Here’s your blueprint.

Cleanser

Start and end your day with a gel or foaming cleanser. Look for ingredients like salicylic acid or tea tree oil. Avoid bar soaps or creamy cleansers—they’re too rich.

Try this: CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser – gentle, budget-friendly, and backed by derms.

Toner

Skip the stinging stuff from the early 2000s. Instead, reach for toners with witch hazel, niacinamide, or PHA. They balance oil without drying you out.

Try this: The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner – toner for a smooth finish.

Moisturizer

Yes, even oily skin needs moisture. Lightweight gel moisturizers hydrate without clogging. Look for “non-comedogenic” on the label.

Try this: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel – oil-free and full of hyaluronic acid.

Sunscreen

Skip greasy SPF that sits on your skin. Opt for mineral or gel formulas that offer broad-spectrum protection.

Try this: EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 – blends like a dream and perfect for sensitive, acne-prone skin.

Weekly Treatments

Beyond your daily routine, a few weekly rituals can help manage oil like a pro.

Clay and Charcoal Masks

These powerhouses suck out excess oil and clear out gunk from your pores. Use once or twice a week—any more, and you’ll risk over-drying.

Clay Mask X Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay

Try this: Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay mixed with apple cider vinegar.

Exfoliant

Stick to gentle exfoliants with BHAs like salicylic acid. Skip rough scrubs—they can cause microtears and inflammation.

Try this: Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

Pore Strips

Fun to peel, sure—but they offer only temporary results. Use sparingly, and don’t expect miracles.

Dermatologist-Approved Ingredients That Help

Forget guessing games—these scientifically-backed ingredients are your oily skin’s new BFFs.

Salicylic Acid and Niacinamide

If oily skin were a villain, salicylic acid would be the superhero with a sidekick named niacinamide.

Salicylic Acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that dissolves oil and exfoliates inside your pores. It helps prevent blackheads, breakouts, and that dreaded midday slick.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) calms inflammation, shrinks the appearance of pores, and regulates sebum production—without making your skin feel tight or dry.

Retinol

Retinol isn’t just for anti-aging. It increases cell turnover, unclogs pores, and can reduce oil over time. But it’s a commitment—start slow (twice a week) and use a good SPF daily.

Sulfur and Zinc

These unsung heroes absorb oil, fight bacteria, and calm inflamed skin.

Zinc PCA helps balance sebum and reduce shine.
Sulfur clears pores and dries out surface oil—perfect for spot treatments.

Top 10 Skincare & Bodycare products

Below you can find the most popular skincare products right now on Beautinow.com.

Natural Remedies

Mother Nature’s got a few tricks up her sleeve, and some of them actually deliver results.

Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)

ACV is a natural astringent and antibacterial agent. Dilute 1 part vinegar with 3 parts water, and use as a toner. But beware—it’s strong stuff. Always patch test first.

Aloe Vera

Soothing, hydrating, and oil-balancing. Use fresh aloe gel straight from the plant or opt for a pure, fragrance-free store version.

Green Tea and Witch Hazel

Green tea is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory effects, while witch hazel can tighten pores and reduce excess oil—if it’s alcohol-free.

Brew green tea, chill it, and spritz it on your face for a refreshing midday matte-up.

Pro tip: Natural doesn’t always mean gentle. Test and tweak until you find what works for your skin.

Lifestyle Tweaks That Make a Difference

Skincare is only half the battle. Here’s what else matters.

Diet

Foods high in sugar and dairy can trigger oil production and inflammation. Focus on greens, omega-3s, and antioxidant-rich berries.

Stress Reduction

Stress = cortisol = more oil. Try yoga, journaling, or even five minutes of deep breathing. Your skin will thank you.

Hydration

Dehydrated skin tries to compensate by overproducing oil. Drink your water—at least 8 glasses a day.

Let’s face it—oily skin can be annoying, but it’s totally manageable. With the right knowledge, the right products, and a little consistency, you can go from shiny to stunning without stripping your skin of its natural goodness.

Remember, you’re not fighting your skin—you’re learning to partner with it. And with these tips and top products in your arsenal, you’re well on your way to saying goodbye to grease and hello to glow.