Best Skincare Routine for Oily Skin

If your face gets shiny a few hours after washing or your makeup fades by midday, you likely have oily skin. Managing it can be tough, but oily skin has its benefits. It naturally resists wrinkles better than dry skin because it has more moisture. However, too much oil can cause clogged pores, acne, and unwanted breakouts. That’s why it’s important to have a good skincare routine for oily skin.

A simple and affordable skincare routine can help you manage oily skin. A good plan will control excess oil, reduce breakouts, and improve skin texture. Using active ingredients like niacinamide and salicylic acid can help balance oil levels and promote clearer skin.

This guide provides key steps, product recommendations available in the UK, and tips for smooth skin, specifically for oily skin types. Whether you’re new to skincare or want to improve your current routine, the right approach can give you a fresh, matte look while keeping your skin healthy.

Know Your Skin: Understanding Oily Skin’s Behaviour

Oily skin makes too much sebum, a natural oil that keeps your skin hydrated. When your body produces too much sebum, it can clog pores and cause blackheads and shiny spots, especially on the forehead, nose, and chin. Hormones, diet, genetics, and stress can all increase oil production.

Spotting oily skin early helps you pick the right products and avoid mistakes like washing too much, which can dry out your skin and make it produce even more oil. A good routine for oily skin aims to balance oil levels, keeping your skin fresh and healthy while reducing acne and uneven texture.

Morning Must-Haves: Starting the Day Right

Your morning routine affects your skin all day. Start with a gentle foaming cleanser that removes overnight oil without harming your skin’s barrier. Choose cleansers with tea tree oil or salicylic acid, which help control oil and fight bacteria. Avoid bar soaps since they can dry out your skin.

Next, use a niacinamide serum. This secret skincare hero helps oily skin by shrinking pores, controlling oil, and reducing redness. It also improves your skin tone and texture over time. Niacinamide is essential in effective skincare routines. Check our Serums page for the best options for UK skin types.

Finish with a water-based, oil-free moisturiser and a mattifying SPF. A light, breathable sunscreen protects your skin from UV damage and helps reduce shine.

Lightweight Hydration: Moisturising Without Greasiness

A common myth is that oily skin doesn’t need moisturiser. In reality, not using moisturiser can lead to more oil production. It’s important to choose a lightweight, gel-based moisturiser that hydrates without clogging pores or feeling greasy.

Look for moisturisers with ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and aloe vera. These ingredients draw water into your skin without being heavy. Some products also contain niacinamide or zinc, which are good for oily skin. For more choices, check our recommended skincare products for oily skin.

Using a moisturiser regularly creates a smooth base for makeup and helps maintain a strong and balanced skin barrier.

Sunscreen Is Non-Negotiable: Yes, Even for Oily Skin!

You might think sunscreen makes your skin oily, but it’s an important part of caring for oily skin. UV rays can age your skin early, increase oil production, and worsen dark spots and acne scars. Choose mattifying, non-comedogenic sunscreens with at least SPF 30 to protect your skin without adding shine.

UK brands offer great budget-friendly skincare options, including lightweight sunblocks for oily and acne-prone skin. Look for formulas with zinc oxide or silica to soak up excess oil and leave your skin smooth. Powder or gel sunscreens are perfect for quick touch-ups, especially in warmer weather.

Budget Skincare UK: Smart Picks That Work

Taking care of oily skin doesn’t have to be expensive. Many great products come from UK brands that focus on quality at a lower cost. Affordable skincare can work just as well as high-end options.

Choose multipurpose products like niacinamide serums, micellar waters, and oil-free moisturisers that solve several problems at once. You can also check out bundles or starter kits at Britain Beauty that offer essential items for a complete routine. These packs are perfect for beginners or anyone looking to refresh their skincare without spending too much.

Using your skincare products consistently is more important than their price. Even budget-friendly products can give amazing results when used regularly.

Weekly Detox: Exfoliate and Mask for Balance

Exfoliation is important for oily skin, but don’t overdo it. Exfoliating too much can irritate your skin and cause more oiliness. Aim to exfoliate two to three times a week with BHA products like salicylic acid, which help unclog pores and reduce breakouts.

Use a clay mask once a week as well. Clay masks soak up extra oil, remove dirt, and tighten pores. Look for ingredients like kaolin clay, bentonite clay, and activated charcoal for the best results. If your skin is sensitive, choose calming masks with chamomile or aloe.

After using a mask, apply a lightweight moisturiser to keep your skin hydrated.

Night-time Repair: Let Your Skin Breathe

At night, your skin heals itself, so your night-time skincare routine should help this process. If you wore makeup or sunscreen or were exposed to pollution, start with a double cleanse. First, use micellar water or an oil-free cleansing balm, then follow up with your regular foaming cleanser.

After cleansing, apply a niacinamide serum to aid healing and control oil. Next, use a hydrating gel cream or oil-free night moisturiser. You can also add retinoids or AHA toners twice a week to speed up cell turnover, prevent acne, and improve skin texture.

Sleeping masks with green tea, aloe, or cucumber are great for restoring balance overnight. These treatments help you wake up with refreshed, glowing skin.

Smooth Skin Tips: Daily Habits that Make a Difference

To get smooth skin, you need more than skincare products. Daily habits are crucial for keeping your skin clear and soft. First, wash your pillowcases at least twice a week. They trap oil, sweat, and bacteria that can cause breakouts.

Try not to touch your face during the day, and clean your phone screen often. Eat a balanced diet with plenty of leafy greens, fruits, and omega-3s. Cutting back on sugar and dairy may help reduce acne and oiliness for some people. Drink 6 to 8 glasses of water each day to keep your skin hydrated and less oily.

Set reminders to stick to your skincare routine daily. Being consistent and patient is key to seeing real results.

Ingredients to Love (and Avoid)

Choosing the right ingredients is crucial for your skincare routine. If you have oily skin, use oil-controlling, soothing, and non-comedogenic ingredients like:

• Niacinamide
• Salicylic acid
• Zinc PCA
• Witch hazel
• Green tea extract
• Tea tree oil
• Oil-free hyaluronic acid

Avoid these ingredients:

• Mineral oil
• Coconut oil
• Isopropyl myristate
• Alcohol-based toners
• Fragrance-heavy products

Always patch-test new products and add active ingredients to your routine gradually. Use fragrance-free options when you can to reduce irritation and protect your skin’s natural barrier.

Glow Without the Grease

Managing oily skin isn’t about removing all the oil; it’s about finding a balance. With a regular skincare routine that fits your skin’s needs, you can reduce shine, prevent breakouts, and achieve clear skin. Use products like cleansers, niacinamide serums, clay masks, and lightweight moisturisers to create healthy habits.

At Britain Beauty, we believe everyone should feel confident in their skin. Ready to discover effective skincare? Check out our top-rated serums and skincare collections for budget-friendly UK essentials that your skin will love.

Here’s to glowing, confident skin — without the grease!