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Best Skincare Products for Oily Skin in 2025: Enjoy Shine-Free Skin

Megha Agarwal

July 9, 2025

Dealing with oily skin on a daily basis can be frustrating. The extra shine, frequent breakouts, and large pores make it hard to keep your skin looking fresh. However, the right skincare routine can make a significant difference.

Using the best skincare products for oily skin helps control excess oil, clear clogged pores, and prevent acne. It also keeps your skin balanced without stripping away moisture. In this guide, you’ll find the top ingredients to look for, daily routines to follow, and the best cleansers, toners, serums, moisturisers, and sunscreens for oily skin.

Get ready to discover products that work so that you can enjoy healthy, smooth, and shine-free skin.

Why You Need Special Care for Oily Skin?

• Oily skin produces more sebum than normal, resulting in excessive shine.
• Excessive oil often clogs pores, leading to the formation of blackheads, whiteheads, and acne.
• Using harsh or drying products can backfire by causing the skin to produce even more oil.
• A balanced skincare routine helps control oil without stripping the skin’s natural moisture.
• The right products keep pores clear and reduce breakouts.

Top Ingredients to Look for in Oily Skin Products

Best Skincare Products for Oily Skin

Cleanser

A good cleanser is the first step to keeping oily skin fresh and balanced. It helps remove excess sebum, dirt, and impurities that can clog pores and lead to breakouts. Look for lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas that clean deeply without stripping your skin.

Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser

Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser is a gentle foaming face wash specially made for oily and acne-prone skin. It’s known for removing excess oil without leaving the skin dry or tight, making it popular among both dermatologists and everyday users.

Key Features of the Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser:

• Deep yet gentle cleansing: This cleanser is specifically designed to gently wash away dirt, impurities, and excess oil that can clog pores and cause breakouts.
• Maintains natural moisture: Unlike harsh face washes, it doesn’t strip the skin’s natural oils completely. It helps maintain your skin’s protective barrier.
• Soothing formula: Contains niacinamide (vitamin B₃) and panthenol (pro-vitamin B₅), which calm the skin and help reduce redness.
• Safe for sensitive skin: It’s fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores), and free from parabens.
• Clinically tested: Proven to reduce surface oil without causing dryness, making it a dependable choice for daily use.

👌 Best for:

This cleanser is ideal for individuals with oily, combination, or acne-prone skin who seek a simple, everyday face wash that effectively controls oil without causing dryness or irritation. It’s also a great option for those with sensitive skin who struggle to find products that won’t cause redness or flare-ups.

Minimalist 2 % Salicylic Acid + LHA Cleanser

Minimalist 2 % Salicylic Acid + LHA Cleanser is a gentle, daily face wash designed for oily and acne-prone skin. It combines two beta-hydroxy acids, salicylic acid and LHA, for effective yet mild exfoliation, making it a popular choice for deep cleansing without stripping the skin.

Key Features of the Minimalist 2 % Salicylic Acid + LHA Cleanser:

• Powerful exfoliation duo: Contains 2% salicylic acid, which penetrates deep into pores to dissolve excess oil and dead skin, combined with LHA (lipo hydroxy acid) that works on the skin’s surface to gently lift away buildup.
• Zinc PCA: Helps regulate sebum production, calms acne-related inflammation and reduces shine throughout the day.
• Mild, sulfate-free surfactants: Cleans the skin without damaging the moisture barrier, so it feels fresh but not overly tight.
• Minimalist formulation: Free from fragrance, parabens, essential oils, dyes, and silicones, reducing the chance of irritation. 
• Balanced pH: The formulation maintains an optimal pH range of approximately 4.5-5.5, which aligns with the skin’s natural pH level and prevents excessive dryness.

👌 Best for:

This cleanser is ideal for individuals with oily, combination, or acne-prone skin who seek to manage breakouts, unclog pores, and control excess oil. It’s also one of the best skincare products for oily skin, offering the benefits of gentle chemical exfoliation in a daily face wash.

Toner

A toner helps balance your skin after cleansing, tightening pores and reducing excess oil. For oily skin, opt for alcohol-free toners with soothing, pore-minimising ingredients that keep your skin feeling fresh and comfortable.

Plum Green Tea Alcohol‑Free Toner

Plum Green Tea Alcohol-Free Toner is a lightweight, water-based toner specially made for oily and acne-prone skin. Unlike harsh toners that rely on alcohol to shrink pores, this one uses green tea, glycolic acid, and hydrating agents to balance oil production, gently exfoliate dead skin, and calm breakouts.

Key Features of the Plum Green Tea Alcohol‑Free Toner:

• Rich in green tea extract: This toner’s hero ingredient is green tea, a natural antioxidant that helps fight acne-causing bacteria, soothes inflammation and keeps oil under control.
• Glycolic acid (AHA) exfoliation: A small amount of glycolic acid gently removes dead skin cells, prevents clogged pores, and helps keep skin smooth.
• No alcohol, no sting: This toner is completely alcohol-free, which helps tighten pores without damaging the skin’s barrier or leaving it parched.
• Light hydration with glycerin: It contains glycerin, which draws water into the skin, balancing out oil control with gentle moisture so your face feels fresh and not stripped.
• Clean, non-comedogenic formula: It’s free from parabens, phthalates, SLS, and other common irritants. The formulation is also non-comedogenic so it won’t clog pores.

👌 Best for:

This toner is best for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. It’s a smart pick if you struggle with frequent breakouts, large-looking pores, or excess shine. Because it’s alcohol-free and contains soothing green tea, it also works well for those who want to gently manage their acne.

Beauty of Joseon Glow Replenishing Rice Milk Toner

This Rice Milk toner is a lightweight, dual-phase toner that hydrates, brightens, and helps control excess oil simultaneously. Inspired by Korean “rice water” beauty traditions, it combines nourishing rice extract with kaolin clay powder. This gives your skin a soft, balanced glow.

Key Features of the Beauty of Joseon Glow Replenishing Rice Milk Toner:

• Dual-layer formula: This toner stands out because it combines a watery rice extract base with a fine layer of kaolin clay powder.
• Rice extract + amino acids: Rich in nutrients, rice extract helps brighten skin tone, soften texture, and maintain a healthy skin barrier. Amino acids support moisture retention, leaving skin plump and smooth.
• Calming plant extracts: Contains Centella Asiatica and Coptis Japonica, both known for reducing redness and calming irritation. Panthenol (vitamin B5) adds a soothing touch.
• Lightweight, non-sticky feel: Despite its clay content, this toner sinks in quickly, leaving the skin with a soft, fresh finish that is neither greasy nor heavy.
• Clean formulation: Free from drying alcohol, parabens, silicones, sulfates, mineral oil, and synthetic dyes. It’s also cruelty-free and vegan.

👌 Best for:

This toner is ideal for individuals with oily or combination skin who want to balance hydration and oil control in a single step. It suits anyone looking to keep their skin fresh and matte without losing essential moisture. If you prefer lightweight, non-greasy formulas that won’t clog pores and value clean, vegan, cruelty-free skincare, this product is a great choice for your routine.

Serum

Serums pack a high concentration of active ingredients to tackle oily skin issues such as excess sebum, enlarged pores, and post-acne marks. Choosing the right lightweight serum can help refine texture, control shine, and even brighten your complexion.

Minimalist 10% Niacinamide + Matmarine Serum

One of the best skincare products for oily skin, this Minimalist serum is a lightweight, daily-use facial serum designed to control oil, reduce acne marks, and refine skin texture. It pairs high-concentration ingredients to manage sebum, calm inflammation, and restore skin balance.

Key Features of the Minimalist 10% Niacinamide + Matmarine Serum:

• 10% pure niacinamide: At this concentration, niacinamide works effectively to regulate excess sebum, visibly reduce enlarged pores, and fade acne scars or dark spots.
• Matmarine (marine extract): This specifically targets oil control. It helps decrease sebum levels on the skin, reduces visible shine, and minimises the look of pores.
• Zinc PCA: Zinc is well-known for its calming effect on inflamed skin and its ability to help manage acne. This serum with PCA maintains skin balance, regulates oil production, and soothes redness.
• Boost hydration levels: The goodness of Acetyl Glucosamine and Hyaluronic Acid improves overall skin tone and texture. 
• Clean formula: Free from fragrance, essential oils, parabens, sulfates, silicones, dyes, and drying alcohol. It’s also non-comedogenic and dermatologically tested. 

👌 Best for:

This serum is ideal for people with oily, combination, and acne-prone skin who want to reduce blemish marks, shrink enlarged pores, and control oil production. It also suits those with dull or uneven skin tones seeking brightening effects. It is a good choice for anyone who avoids fragrance, parabens, and pore-clogging ingredients.

The Derma Co 10% Niacinamide Serum

The Derma Co 10% Niacinamide Serum is a lightweight, daily treatment that targets oily, acne-prone, and uneven skin. It combines a potent 10% concentration of Niacinamide with 2% zinc PCA to help reduce acne marks, control oil, tighten pores, and strengthen the skin barrier.

Key Features of The Derma Co 10% Niacinamide Serum:

• 10% niacinamide: This high concentration of vitamin B3 helps regulate oil production, fade dark spots from old breakouts, and reduce redness.
• 2% zinc PCA: Works together with niacinamide to balance sebum levels, reduce shine, and calm acne-related inflammation, making skin look clearer and more matte.
• Centella asiatica extract: Known for its soothing and healing properties, Centella helps calm irritation, reduces redness, and supports the repair of a weakened skin barrier.
• Deep penetration formula: Developed with a delivery system that ensures actives reach deeper skin layers for more effective results.
• Glycerin and humectants: Maintain hydration so your skin doesn’t feel tight or overly dry, even while controlling oil.

👌 Best for:

This serum is ideal for individuals with oily, combination, or acne-prone skin who want to fade acne scars, tighten pores, and balance their oil levels. It suits users looking for a science-driven, no-nonsense formula that works quickly and layers easily with other daily skincare products.

Moisturiser

Even oily skin needs proper hydration. A good oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturiser will maintain moisture balance, protect the skin barrier, and prevent your skin from overproducing oil to compensate for dryness.

Dot & Key Cica + 5% Niacinamide Moisturiser

Dot & Key’s Moisturiser is one of the best skincare products for oily skin, featuring a lightweight gel-cream texture specifically formulated for oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin. It combines powerful calming agents with skin-brightening ingredients to address multiple concerns simultaneously.

Key Features of the Dot & Key Cica + 5% Niacinamide Moisturiser:

• 5% Niacinamide: This proven active ingredient helps reduce oil production, minimises the appearance of large pores, fades acne scars, and evens out skin tone.
• Centella Asiatica (Cica): Known for its strong calming properties, Cica soothes irritation, speeds up acne healing, and reduces redness.
• Ceramide complex & oat extract: Ceramides restore and strengthen the skin barrier, preventing moisture loss and keeping skin resilient. Oat extract adds an extra layer of soothing comfort.
• Hyaluronic acid and glycerin: These hydrating ingredients draw water into the skin, keeping it plump and hydrated without adding oil.
• Oil-free, non-comedogenic formula: Won’t clog pores or contribute to new breakouts.

👌 Best for:

This moisturiser is best for oily, combination, acne-prone, and sensitive skin types that need calm, oil-controlled hydration without clogging pores. It’s especially useful for those dealing with frequent breakouts, redness, or leftover acne marks. If you’re looking for a non-sticky, fragrance-free formula, this is a good pick. 

CeraVe Oil Control Moisturising Gel Cream

CeraVe Oil-Gel Cream is a lightweight, mattifying gel specifically designed for oily and combination skin. Created in collaboration with dermatologists, it balances oil production and hydration. Its popularity stems from effective shine control, skin barrier support, and a refreshing, non-greasy feel.

Key Features of the CeraVe Oil Control Moisturising Gel Cream:

• Instant mattifying effect: Contains micro-fine silica and natural oil-absorbing powders that soak up excess sebum on contact. This gives the skin an immediate, smooth, matte look.
• Three essential ceramides (NP, AP, EOP): Ceramides are lipids naturally found in healthy skin. This formula replenishes them to repair and maintain the skin barrier.
• Niacinamide: This multitasker calms redness, regulates oil production, and supports an even skin tone over time.
• MVE Technology: A special controlled-release system that slowly delivers hydration and actives over time so skin stays balanced longer.
• Non-comedogenic & fragrance-free: It’s formulated to be safe for sensitive, acne-prone skin without clogging pores or causing irritation.

👌 Best for:

This gel cream is ideal for anyone with oily, combination, or acne-prone skin seeking a moisturiser that controls shine while reliably hydrating. It suits users who want lightweight, non-pilling hydration that layers well with sunscreen and makeup. If you’re seeking a dermatologist-developed option, it’s a great fit. 

Sunscreen

Sunscreen is essential for all skin types, particularly those with oily skin that is prone to pigmentation and acne marks. Choose a lightweight, matte-finish SPF that won’t clog pores or add unwanted shine, allowing your skin to stay protected without feeling greasy.

Deconstruct Face Gel SPF 50+ Sunscreen

Deconstruct’s sunscreen is a high-protection, broad-spectrum cream that stands out for its gel texture. It sinks into the skin almost instantly, leaves no white cast, and controls oil without feeling heavy. This cream also provides excellent protection without leaving the skin looking greasy or sticky. 

Key Features of the Deconstruct Face Gel SPF 50+ Sunscreen:

• Broad-spectrum sun filters: Offer SPF 55+ protection from UVB rays (which cause sunburn) and PA+++ protection against UVA rays (which cause premature ageing and deeper skin damage).
• Oil-absorbing, lightweight gel base: Contains silica and oil-control polymers that quickly absorb excess oil on the skin’s surface, giving a matte finish.
• Glycerin and phospholipids: Keep the skin lightly hydrated so it doesn’t feel tight or dry, balancing oil control with comfort.
• Water-resistant formula: Helps maintain sun protection even with light sweating or in humid weather, making it suitable for Indian climates.
• No white cast: Unlike many high-SPF sunscreens, this completely clear gel leaves no residue on deeper skin tones.

👌 Best for:

This is one of the top skincare products for oily, combination, or acne-prone skin that struggles with greasy sunscreens that clog pores or leave them looking sweaty. It’s also a strong choice for those living in hot, humid areas who need daily sun protection that keeps the face comfortably matte.

WishCare Niacinamide Sunscreen

WishCare Niacinamide Oil Balance Fluid Sunscreen is a lightweight, broad-spectrum sunscreen specifically designed for oily and acne-prone skin. It balances oil and protects your skin while delivering a matte, non-greasy finish that blends easily on deeper skin tones.

Key Features of the WishCare Niacinamide Sunscreen:

• 5% Niacinamide: A hero ingredient that helps regulate oil production, shrink the look of pores, fade dark spots from old acne, and reinforce the skin barrier.
• Broad-spectrum sun filters: Provide strong protection with SPF 50+ against UVB (burning rays) and PA++++ for UVA (ageing rays), helping prevent tanning, pigmentation, and early fine lines.
• Oil-control complex: Contains silica and tapioca starch to immediately absorb excess oil, giving a matte, smooth finish that stays comfortable throughout the day.
• Barrier-loving actives: Infused with ceramides, oat extract, zinc PCA, Centella asiatica (CICA), hyaluronic acid, and panthenol. These work together to calm irritation, hydrate lightly, and repair the skin’s natural defence layer.
• Fast-absorbing fluid texture: Feels like water on the skin and sinks in instantly, leaving no greasy film or residue.

👌 Best for:

This sunscreen is ideal for people with oily, combination, or acne-prone skin who want strong sun protection without greasiness. It’s especially suitable for humid climates and under makeup, as it keeps the skin matte and shine-free.

Exfoliant

Exfoliation is essential for oily skin to remove dead cells and prevent clogged pores that can cause blackheads and acne. A gentle chemical or mild physical exfoliant used a few times a week can keep your skin smooth, refined, and glowing.

Chemist at Play Gentle Exfoliating Scrub

This gentle scrub blends chemical and physical exfoliation to improve skin clarity without harshness. It combines mandelic acid and lactobionic acid for mild surface renewal, along with fine walnut shell powder to sweep away dead skin and blackheads.

Key Features of the Chemist at Play Gentle Exfoliating Scrub:

• Dual-action Exfoliation: This scrub combines Mandelic acid (AHA), which gently breaks down dead skin and targets pigmentation, and Lactobionic acid (PHA), which works at the surface to exfoliate, hydrate, and offer antioxidant benefits.
• Brightens and Evens Skin Tone: Infused with acai berry extract and pink lemon, this formula targets dullness and helps fade minor tan and uneven patches.
• Blackhead & Excess Oil Control: This scrub helps loosen and lift stubborn blackheads, clears out pore-clogging debris, and balances excess sebum.
• Supports skin barrier health: Packed with shea butter, ceramides from rice, and phospholipids, this scrub nourishes and strengthens the skin’s barrier while exfoliating the skin.
• Gentle on sensitive skin: While it offers thorough exfoliation, it avoids harsh agents like sulfates, parabens, alcohol, silicones, and essential oils.

👌 Best for:

This is ideal for people with oily, combination, or mildly sensitive skin who want a gentle exfoliant that reveals brighter skin, helps with blackheads, smooths texture, and supports skin health—all without harsh scrub effects.

Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

This leave-on, clinical-strength exfoliant delivers 2% salicylic acid in a lightweight liquid form. It’s widely known as a top-tier exfoliant that unclogs pores, reduces oil, and helps achieve smoother, clearer skin. Dermatologists regularly recommend it for great exfoliation.

Key Features of Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant:

• 2% salicylic acid (BHA): This concentration penetrates deep into pores to dissolve sebum and debris, effectively clearing blackheads, calming acne, reducing breakouts, and minimising fine lines.
• Leave-on liquid texture: Unlike rinsed exfoliators, this liquid formula allows continuous exfoliation and refining throughout the day.
• pH-optimised formulation: The product is carefully tuned to a skin-friendly pH between 3 and 4, the ideal range for salicylic acid to be effective at exfoliation. 
• Multi-skin-type friendly: Although powerful, this exfoliant refines pores, minimises fine lines, calms redness, and supports overall skin clarity.
• Green tea extract: This skincare product for oily skin serves as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, soothing the skin while gently exfoliating.

👌 Best for:

This exfoliant is ideal for oily, combination, acne-prone, or congested skin. It’s a top pick for anyone dealing with blackheads, enlarged pores, uneven texture, or premature fine lines. Dermatologists and global beauty editors often rank it as the #1 pore-refining treatment.

Face Mask

Face masks are a great way to give oily skin an occasional deep clean. Clay or exfoliating masks can detoxify pores, reduce shine, and calm breakouts, leaving your skin feeling fresh and renewed.

Dot & Key Pollution + Acne Defence Clay Mask

If you’re hunting for the best skincare products for oily skin, the Dot & Key Pollution + Acne Defence Green Clay Mask is a standout choice. In just 10 minutes, it helps clear out impurities, reduce blackheads, calm active breakouts, and leave skin feeling clean, balanced, and comfortably matte.

Key Features of the Dot & Key Pollution + Acne Defence Clay Mask:

• French Green Clay Base: The goodness of Salicylic acid, cica, matcha, and other plant extracts draws out deep-seated oil, dirt, and pollution particles.
• Salicylic acid (BHA): Increases exfoliation, penetrates pores to dissolve oil plugs and blackheads, and reduces active breakouts over time. 
• Centella asiatica (Cica): Soothes inflammation, redness, and calms skin after clay action, supporting healing and barrier recovery.
• Natural Antimicrobials (Matcha & Neem): These botanicals gently fight acne-causing bacteria and reduce oil production, supporting clearer skin.
• Includes Additional Botanicals: Tamanu oil, willow bark, scutellaria, and houttuynia help balance out harshness, boost hydration, and shield the skin from pollution stress.

👌 Best for:

This mask is ideal for oily, acne-prone, combination, or acne-sensitive skin types that want quick oil control, pore cleansing, and soothing in a single product. It’s especially beneficial for city dwellers who struggle with pollution and require a gentle yet effective detoxifying treatment.

Foxtale Skin Radiance Clay Mask

Foxtale Skin Radiance Mask is a creamy clay face pack with lactic acid, Brazilian purple clay, and kaolin clay. It works as an instant de‑tan and brightening mask that removes dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and controls oil, all while maintaining hydration.

Key Features of the Foxtale Skin Radiance Clay Mask:

• Lactic Acid (AHA): It gently dissolves dead skin and binds moisture, leaving skin soft and hydrated. It also helps fade tan and dull patches. 
• Brazilian Purple Clay: Rich in minerals like magnesium and silica, this clay deeply detoxifies pores by drawing out trapped oil, dirt, and pollutants. It also helps improve blood flow, giving a subtle glow and reducing the look of tired, congested skin.
• Kaolin Clay: Known as a gentle clay, kaolin soaks up excess oil from the surface without aggressively stripping moisture.
• Anti-Dehydration Shield: This formula includes hydrating agents that lock in moisture for up to 8 hours. That means your skin stays matte and clean but still feels soft.
• Creamy, Non-Drying Finish: Its texture spreads smoothly and doesn’t crack or flake as it dries. This makes it more comfortable to use. 

👌 Best for:

Oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types seeking a quick and effective mask for brightening, oil control, and mild exfoliation. It works well for detoxifying in urban pollution environments and adding a radiant “boost” whenever needed.

Daily Skincare Routine for Oily Skin

Morning Routine

• Cleanser: Use a gentle foaming or gel cleanser to wash away overnight oil.
• Toner (optional): Select a toner containing salicylic acid or niacinamide to help regulate oil production.
• Serum: Apply a light serum with niacinamide or vitamin C.
• Moisturiser: Opt for an oil-free, gel-based moisturiser to hydrate without leaving a greasy residue.
• Sunscreen: Always finish with a non-comedogenic, oil-free sunscreen.

Night Routine

• Cleanser: Remove dirt, oil, and sunscreen with a gentle cleanser.
• Exfoliant (2–3 times a week): Use a BHA exfoliant to clear pores and refine skin texture.
• Treatment: Apply niacinamide or a retinoid to help control oil and reduce acne.
• Moisturiser: Lock in hydration with a light gel or water-based cream.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Oily Skin

• Over-washing: Washing your face too frequently can strip away natural oils and trigger an increase in oil production.
• Skipping moisturiser: Even oily skin needs hydration; use a lightweight gel instead of heavy cream.
• Using harsh scrubs daily: Washing your face with rough scrubs can irritate your skin and exacerbate oil production.
• Choosing pore-clogging products: Avoid heavy oils or comedogenic makeup.
• Not using sunscreen: Skipping SPF can lead to dark spots and more breakouts.

Final Words

Oily skin doesn’t have to be a daily struggle. With the right products and a simple routine, you can effectively control shine, prevent breakouts, and maintain fresh-looking skin. Focus on gentle care, oil-balancing ingredients, and lightweight hydration. The best skincare products for oily skin will help you see real changes over time. Stick with it, and you’ll enjoy healthy, clear skin that feels just right.

FAQs