Oily skin

The right steps

• Cleanse gently: a low-pH gel, such as the Low-pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser by Cosrx. An overly harsh cleanser often pushes the skin to produce more sebum.
• Clear pores: a BHA treatment a few times a week, such as the BHA Blackhead Power Liquid by Cosrx. See our AHA/BHA skincare.
• Hydrate lightly: gels and gel creams, such as the Red Bean Water Gel by Beauty of Joseon or the Centella 5% Niacinamide Radiance Gel Cream by Haruharu Wonder.
• Protect without shine: a sunscreen with a matte finish, such as the Oil Control Mattifying Sun Stick by Celimax.

Key actives

Niacinamide helps control shine and the look of pores; BHA clears pores; centella and heartleaf soothe blemishes. See also our enlarged pores and excess sebum selections.

What to avoid

Very drying products or stacking exfoliants, which weaken the skin barrier. If your skin is oily with frequent breakouts, see also our acne skincare.

Read more: Dry, oily, combination skin: do you really need to change your routine?