If you have oily skin, you know the struggle—excess shine, clogged pores, and breakouts. The key to keeping your skin clear and balanced is following the right face cleansing routine with products designed for oil control.
In this guide, we’ll break down the ultimate facial cleansing routine to keep your skin fresh, matte, and healthy.
Step-by-Step Facial Cleansing Routine for Oily Skin
Step 1: Use a Gentle, Oil-Control Facial Cleanser (Morning & Night)
Your face cleanser is the foundation of your skincare routine. Choose a gentle, foaming cleanser designed for oily skin.
🔥 Comparison Table: Best Facial Cleansers for Oily Skin
| Product | Key Ingredients | Texture | Best For | Price | Fan |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser | Niacinamide, Ceramides | Foaming | Oily & sensitive skin | $$ | Jasmine |
| La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Gel | Zinc PCA, Thermal Water | Gel-based | Acne-prone, oily skin | $$ | Kelly |
| Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash | Salicylic Acid | Gel-based | Acne & blackheads | $ | Justin |
| The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser | Squalane, Glycerin | Balm-to-oil | Gentle deep cleansing | $$ | |
| Paula’s Choice Pore Normalizing Cleanser | Salicylic Acid, Glycerin | Gel-based | Large pores & excess oil | $$$ |
👉 How to Use:
- Wet your face with lukewarm water (hot water strips essential oils).
- Apply a dime-sized amount of cleanser, massaging in circular motions.
- Rinse thoroughly and pat dry (don’t rub!).
Step 2: Use a Toner to Control Oil (Morning & Night)
A toner helps remove any leftover impurities while tightening pores and reducing shine.
🔥 Recommended Toners:
- Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid – Great for oily & acne-prone skin.
- The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution – Exfoliates and minimizes pore size.
- Thayers Witch Hazel Alcohol-Free Toner – Gentle yet effective for shine control. This is also a favorite of Jasmine and Kelly!
👉 How to Use:
- Apply toner with a cotton pad or your hands.
- Gently press it into the skin without rubbing.
Step 3: Apply a Lightweight, Oil-Free Moisturizer (Morning & Night)
Even oily skin needs hydration! A lightweight, oil-free moisturizer helps balance your skin and prevents it from overproducing oil.
🔥 Recommended Moisturizers:
- Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel – Lightweight and hydrating.
- CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion – Non-greasy with niacinamide. This is all of our must have when we are on plane.
- La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat – Helps reduce shine.
Step 4: Always Apply Sunscreen (Morning)
Oily skin still needs daily sun protection! Choose a lightweight, matte-finish sunscreen.
🔥 Best Sunscreens for Oily Skin:
- EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 – Lightweight and non-greasy. This is Justin’s go-to! Kelly uses the version with tint.
- La Roche-Posay Anthelios SPF 60 – Matte finish, great for acne-prone skin. Jasmine is a fan!
👉 How to Use:
- Apply 2-3 pumps after moisturizer.
- Reapply every 2 hours if outdoors.
Final Thoughts
A good facial cleansing routine is the key to controlling oily skin, reducing breakouts, and keeping shine under control.
By following these four essential steps—cleansing, toning, moisturizing, and applying sunscreen—your skin will stay fresh and healthy all day.
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