What Causes Oily Skin and How to Manage It with the Right Skincare

Quick Answer

Oily skin is often caused by genetics, hormones, or over-cleansing, which can strip the skin and trigger more oil. To manage it, use a gentle cleanser, exfoliate with glycolic acid, and never skip a lightweight moisturizer with niacinamide.

If your face feels greasy by midday, you're not alone. Oily skin is a common concern that can lead to shine, enlarged pores, and breakouts. But with the right approach, you can reduce excess oil without damaging your skin barrier.

This guide breaks down the real causes of oily skin and shows you how to build a simple routine that keeps sebum in check while maintaining a healthy, comfortable complexion.

What Causes Oily Skin?

Oily skin happens when your sebaceous glands produce too much sebum, the natural oil that protects and lubricates your skin. Genetics plays a big role—if your parents had oily skin, you're more likely to have it too. Hormones also matter: during puberty, menstrual cycles, or times of stress, androgen levels can spike and stimulate more oil production.

Your environment and habits can make things worse. Hot, humid weather increases sweating and oil, while harsh cleansers or over-exfoliating can strip your skin, causing it to produce even more oil to compensate. The goal isn't to eliminate oil entirely—it's to balance it.

• Avoid washing your face more than twice a day—over-cleansing triggers more oil.

Build a Routine That Manages Oil Without Over-Drying

Start with a gentle cleanser that removes makeup and impurities without leaving your skin tight. A calming cleanser with antioxidant-rich ingredients can help soothe and hydrate while cleansing. For deeper exfoliation, use a glycolic acid cleanser at night to promote cell turnover and keep pores clear.

After cleansing, follow with a lightweight moisturizer or a hydrating mist to keep your skin balanced. Skipping moisturizer can backfire—your skin may produce more oil to make up for the lack of moisture. Look for ingredients like niacinamide, which helps regulate oil production and improve skin texture.

• Use lukewarm water when washing—hot water strips natural oils and can worsen oiliness.

When to See a Professional or Adjust Your Routine

If your oily skin is accompanied by severe acne or you've tried consistent routines without improvement, it may be time to see a dermatologist. They can prescribe treatments like topical retinoids or oral medications that target oil production and acne from the inside out.

Also, if your skin becomes red, flaky, or overly tight, you may be over-treating. Dial back on exfoliation and focus on gentle cleansing and moisturizing to repair your barrier.

Diagnosing Your Oily Skin

• Symptom: Persistent shine on the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) or all over the face, often with visible pores. If this sounds like you, your skin is likely producing excess sebum.
• Likely Cause: Genetics, hormonal fluctuations, or a routine that strips your skin and triggers overproduction of oil. Consider whether you're over-cleansing or using harsh products.
• Corrective Action: Switch to a gentle cleanser, add a glycolic acid cleanser at night, and use a lightweight moisturizer or mist with niacinamide. Give your new routine 2–4 weeks to show results.
• When to Stop or See an Expert: If you experience severe acne, persistent redness, or your skin becomes irritated, stop exfoliating and consult a dermatologist. Professional guidance is the right next step if over-the-counter options aren't enough.

Products to Support Your Oily Skin Routine

• Gentle Cleanser: Nourishing antioxidant extracts of Green Tea and Goji Berry help neutralise reactive molecules and free radicals, fortifying skin while moisture-binding Cucumber Oil replenishes, soothes and softens skin. This cleanser removes impurities without stripping, helping to prevent the rebound oil production that harsh cleansers can trigger.
• Glycolic Cleanser 12%: 12% Glycolic Acid performs a gentle chemical exfoliation, stimulating healthy cell turnover to improve skin’s tone, texture and radiance. Tea Tree Oil’s excellent decongestant and anti-inflammatory properties make it ideal for oily and combination skin. Using this at night helps keep pores clear and smooths texture, which is key for managing oily skin and preventing breakouts.

Managing oily skin isn't about drying it out—it's about balance. With a gentle cleanser, the right exfoliation, and consistent moisturizing, you can keep shine and breakouts under control while supporting a healthy skin barrier.