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How To Reduce Oily Skin?

Discover effective tips and skincare routines to manage oily skin, including gentle cleansing, lightweight moisturizers, oil-free products, and dietary advice for a shine-free complexion.

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Last updated on 3rd Jul, 2025

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Oily skin can be frustrating, leading to a shiny face, frequent breakouts, and clogged pores. If you're struggling with excess oil production, don’t worry—you're not alone! Many people face this issue, but the good news is that with the right skincare routine and lifestyle changes, you can manage oily skin effectively.

Understanding Oily Skin

Oily skin occurs when the sebaceous glands in your skin produce too much sebum (natural oil). While sebum helps keep your skin hydrated and protected, excessive production can lead to:

  •  A greasy, shiny appearance

  •  Enlarged pores

  •  Frequent acne and blackheads

  •  Makeup that doesn’t stay in place

What Causes Oily Skin?

Several factors contribute to oily skin, including:

  • Genetics: A family history of oily skin can increase your likelihood.

  • Hormonal changes: Fluctuations during puberty, pregnancy, or periods of stress can boost oil production.

  • Humid or hot weather: Increased sweating in these conditions can exacerbate oily skin.

  • Overwashing or harsh skincare: Stripping the skin's natural oils can paradoxically lead to increased oil production.

  • Diet: Consuming a diet high in sugar, dairy, or fried foods may contribute to increased oiliness.

Consult Top Doctors for Personalised Care

Dr. K Chetana, Dermatologist

Dr. K Chetana

Dermatologist

10 Years • MBBS, MD ( Dermatology)

Hyderabad

Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad

649

Dr Usha B K, Dermatologist

Dr Usha B K

Dermatologist

4 Years • MBBS,MD (Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy), DNB (Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy), Fellowship in Trichology

Bangalore

Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore

recommendation

85%

(50+ Patients)

459

Dr Ritika Shanmugam, Dermatologist

Dr Ritika Shanmugam

Dermatologist

9 Years • MBBS, MD (Dermatology, venereology, Leprosy)

Bangalore

Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore

599

How to Reduce Oily Skin?

1. Follow a Gentle Cleansing Routine: Wash your face twice daily with a foaming or gel cleanser containing oil-controlling ingredients like salicylic acid, niacinamide, or tea tree oil, and avoid overwashing.

2. Use a Lightweight Moisturizer: Apply an oil-free, noncomedogenic, gel-based or water-based moisturizer to prevent your skin from overproducing oil to compensate for perceived dryness.

3. Exfoliate Regularly (But Not Too Much!): Exfoliate 2-3 times a week with a chemical exfoliant (AHA/BHA) to remove pore-clogging dead skin cells, and avoid harsh physical scrubs.

4. Use Oil-Free Sunscreen: Protect your skin daily with a matte-finish, oil-free sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, considering gel-based or mineral formulations.

5. Blotting Papers to the Rescue: Use blotting papers throughout the day to absorb excess oil without removing essential moisture.

6. Avoid Heavy Makeup: Opt for noncomedogenic, oil-free makeup, with powder-based foundations to help control shine, and always remove makeup before sleeping.

7. Watch Your Diet: Reduce sugary, fried, and processed foods, and increase your intake of fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 rich foods while staying hydrated to help balance oil production.

8. Manage Stress & Sleep Well: Practice stress-reducing activities like deep breathing, yoga, or meditation, and aim for 7-8 hours of sleep nightly to regulate cortisol levels that can trigger oil production.

When to See a Dermatologist?

If oily skin results in severe acne, redness, or irritation, seeking a dermatologist's advice is recommended. They might suggest:

  • Prescription treatments: These could include topical retinoids or oral medications to manage the condition.

  • Professional facials or peels: These procedures can help to deeply cleanse and control oil production.

Need Expert Advice?

If you're struggling with oily skin and need personalized care, you can consult a dermatologist on Apollo 24|7. Book an appointment today for expert guidance and treatment options!

Conclusion

Oily skin can be managed with the right skincare habits and lifestyle changes. Be patient—consistency is key! With a gentle routine, a balanced diet, and proper hydration, you can achieve a healthy, shinefree complexion.

Consult Top Dermatologists

Dr. K Chetana, Dermatologist

Dr. K Chetana

Dermatologist

10 Years • MBBS, MD ( Dermatology)

Hyderabad

Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad

649

Dr Usha B K, Dermatologist

Dr Usha B K

Dermatologist

4 Years • MBBS,MD (Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy), DNB (Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy), Fellowship in Trichology

Bangalore

Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore

recommendation

85%

(50+ Patients)

459

Dr Ritika Shanmugam, Dermatologist

Dr Ritika Shanmugam

Dermatologist

9 Years • MBBS, MD (Dermatology, venereology, Leprosy)

Bangalore

Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore

599

Consult Top Dermatologists

Dr. K Chetana, Dermatologist

Dr. K Chetana

Dermatologist

10 Years • MBBS, MD ( Dermatology)

Hyderabad

Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad

649

Dr Usha B K, Dermatologist

Dr Usha B K

Dermatologist

4 Years • MBBS,MD (Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy), DNB (Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy), Fellowship in Trichology

Bangalore

Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore

recommendation

85%

(50+ Patients)

459

Dr Ritika Shanmugam, Dermatologist

Dr Ritika Shanmugam

Dermatologist

9 Years • MBBS, MD (Dermatology, venereology, Leprosy)

Bangalore

Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore

599

Dr. B Srujana, Dermatologist

Dr. B Srujana

Dermatologist

12 Years • MBBS, MD Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy

Hyderabad

DermaPro Clinic, Hyderabad

800

No Booking Fees

Dr. Bhavyashree U G, Dermatologist

Dr. Bhavyashree U G

Dermatologist

14 Years • MBBS, MD Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy

Bengaluru

Bhavyas skin and hair center, Bengaluru

750

Consult Top Doctors for Personalised Care

Dr. K Chetana, Dermatologist

Dr. K Chetana

Dermatologist

10 Years • MBBS, MD ( Dermatology)

Hyderabad

Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad

649

Dr Usha B K, Dermatologist

Dr Usha B K

Dermatologist

4 Years • MBBS,MD (Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy), DNB (Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy), Fellowship in Trichology

Bangalore

Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore

recommendation

85%

(50+ Patients)

459

Dr Ritika Shanmugam, Dermatologist

Dr Ritika Shanmugam

Dermatologist

9 Years • MBBS, MD (Dermatology, venereology, Leprosy)

Bangalore

Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore

599

Dr. B Srujana, Dermatologist

Dr. B Srujana

Dermatologist

12 Years • MBBS, MD Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy

Hyderabad

DermaPro Clinic, Hyderabad

800

No Booking Fees

Dr. Bhavyashree U G, Dermatologist

Dr. Bhavyashree U G

Dermatologist

14 Years • MBBS, MD Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy

Bengaluru

Bhavyas skin and hair center, Bengaluru

750

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