Oily skin produces oil faster than it needs to, especially through the T-zone. Shine returns within an hour of blotting, pores read larger, and makeup tends to slide by midday. The goal of a routine here is regulating visible oil, not eliminating it.

Does oily skin need moisturizer?

Yes. Oily skin still needs hydration — the goal is an oil-free, water-based moisturizer rather than skipping the step. Stripping oily skin harder can trigger more oil production in response.

How often should I exfoliate oily skin?

A salicylic acid (BHA) exfoliant, 2–3 nights a week at most. Exfoliating more than that can trigger rebound oil, and an exfoliating step should never share a night with a strong active.

Oily skin

produces oil faster than it needs to, especially through the T-zone

What this type is

Shine returns within an hour of blotting, pores read larger and more visible, and makeup tends to slide by midday. Left alone, oily skin actually resists fine lines and dryness better than the other three types — the goal of a routine here is regulating visible oil, not eliminating it.

The basic routine

A simple 2–3 step starting point, category only.

Cleanse

gentle foaming or gel, twice daily

a gentle foaming or gel cleanser

Hydrate light

oil-free, water-based moisturizer

an oil-free, water-based moisturizer

Protect

mineral SPF 30+, lightweight fluid

a mineral SPF 30+ lightweight fluid

What the full AM/PM routine adds

The full morning and night sequence — every step in order, with the why behind each position — plus what to avoid for oily skin and a patch-test note. It is behind a single optional gate on the quiz.

Take the quiz

These are general category recommendations, not personalised medical advice. Skin behaviour varies by person, and a routine is a description of a pattern, not a diagnosis. For an actual skin concern, see a dermatologist.

Common questions

What is oily skin?: Oily skin produces oil faster than it needs to, especially through the T-zone. Shine returns within an hour of blotting, pores read larger, and makeup tends to slide by midday. The goal of a routine here is regulating visible oil, not eliminating it.
Does oily skin need moisturizer?: Yes. Oily skin still needs hydration — the goal is an oil-free, water-based moisturizer rather than skipping the step. Stripping oily skin harder can trigger more oil production in response.
How often should I exfoliate oily skin?: A salicylic acid (BHA) exfoliant, 2–3 nights a week at most. Exfoliating more than that can trigger rebound oil, and an exfoliating step should never share a night with a strong active.