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The Ultimate Oily Skin Routine Starter Kit
15
items A simple, science-backed routine for shine-control, acne prevention, and long-lasting hydration — without feeling greasy.
Sections
5
CLEANSERS (Start With a Non-Stripping Wash)
EXFOLIANTS (Control Oil + Unclog Pores)
MOISTURISERS (Hydration Without Shine)
SUNSCREENS (Zero White Cast, Zero Grease)
BOOSTERS (For Extra Oil Control + Spot Fading)
CLEANSERS (Start With a Non-Stripping Wash)
Oily skin still needs gentle care. Harsh cleansers make your skin produce even more oil to protect itself. These options clean deeply without drying you out — the key to reducing shine long-term.
This is the one I keep coming back to when my skin is acting up. It cleans without that “tight”, squeaky feeling that actually triggers more oil. Simple, boring, but reliable.
Foaming Facial Cleanser for Normal to Oily Skin
Use this when skin is extra oily or you’ve been wearing makeup every day. It gives a deeper clean without burning or drying you out. Think of it like a reset button.
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel
On days when my skin feels irritated but still oily (yes, it happens!), this is the only thing that calms it down. Very gentle foam, no fragrance, no drama.
Etude House Soon Jung Whip Cleanser
EXFOLIANTS (Control Oil + Unclog Pores)
Exfoliation is a game-changer for oily skin. BHA (salicylic acid) goes deep inside pores to dissolve oil buildup, blackheads, and congestion. Use 2–4 times a week — not daily.
This is the reason my blackheads finally left me alone. I don’t use it daily — 3 nights a week is enough to keep pores clear. Patience is key with this one.
SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
This is for texture and dullness more than acne. I swear it makes my forehead smoother overnight. Be patient and use sunscreen if you pick this one (it’s strong but worth it).
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toner 100ml
If you hate harsh products, this is your best friend. It works slower than Paula’s Choice but gives the same cleaner-pore results over time without irritation.
COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid 100ml
MOISTURISERS (Hydration Without Shine)
Skipping moisturiser produces more oil. Oily skin thrives when it’s hydrated with lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas. These gels keep you hydrated without clogging pores.
This is the one I grab in summer. It disappears into the skin like water, no residue, no pilling — and makeup sits better on top. If you’re scared of moisturisers, start here.
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel 24Hr Hydration
This is my trusted nighttime moisturiser. It keeps oil under control long-term because of niacinamide. It doesn’t look fancy, but it works harder than anything with a “luxury” price tag.
PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion
I reach for this when I’ve picked at a pimple (don’t judge me 😂). It helps the mark heal faster without clogging pores. Sounds weird, works wonders.
COSRX Snail 96 Mucin Essence
SUNSCREENS (Zero White Cast, Zero Grease)
The most important part of an oily skin routine! Sunscreen prevents dark spots, premature aging, and inflammation — especially if you exfoliate. Choose invisible gels that double as a primer.
The only sunscreen that truly feels invisible. No grey cast, no grease, no rubbing forever. I use this when I’m going makeup-free because it gives a smooth, filter-like finish.
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
I love this when my skin feels dehydrated but still oily. It melts in beautifully, especially on medium to deep skin tones. It’s sunscreen that doesn’t make you look grey — finally.
Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30
This one literally feels like a treatment + sunscreen. Helps calm breakouts and redness. On days when my skin is angry, I choose this instead of makeup.
EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46
BOOSTERS (For Extra Oil Control + Spot Fading)
These are powerful add-ons for stubborn acne, dark spots, or heavy oil production. You only need one at a time — they work alongside your routine, not in place of it.
I use this on days I know I’ll be outside and sweating — it keeps oil under control without drying me out. A small amount is enough, don’t overdo it.
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% 30 ML
If you’ve tried The Ordinary version and want something smoother with fewer breakouts, try this one. It’s gentler but still very effective for shine.
Niacinamide Serum 12% Plus Zinc 2%
This changed my skin over months, not overnight — but the results lasted. My advice: start slowly (2–3 nights a week), moisturise, and stay loyal. It’s worth the commitment.
Differin Gel Adapalene Gel 0.1% - 15g