Do you struggle with oily skin that leaves you shiny by midday and prone to breakouts? You’re not alone! While it might feel like a constant battle, managing oily skin doesn’t have to be stressful. Dr. Muneeb Shah, aka @dermdoctor, has shared a foolproof skin care routine that will help you keep shine under control and prevent those pesky breakouts. Let’s dive into a dermatologist-approved routine that will have your skin looking its best!

Understanding Oily Skin: Why Does It Happen?

Before jumping into the routine, it’s essential to understand why your skin gets oily in the first place. Oily skin is primarily caused by an overproduction of sebum, which is the natural oil your skin produces. Hormonal fluctuations, stress, climate, and even genetics can play a significant role in how much oil your skin generates. So, if your skin feels like an oil slick by noon, don’t stress too much—it’s just your sebaceous glands working overtime.

Step-by-Step Oily Skin Routine

The key to managing oily skin isn’t about stripping it of all its natural oils but rather balancing it. According to Dr. Shah, “Having oily skin can be healthy!” Let’s break down the steps to help your skin find its balance.

1. Cleanse Your Skin Twice Daily

The foundation of any good skincare routine starts with a cleanser. For oily skin, Dr. Shah recommends using a gentle salicylic acid cleanser. Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates deep into your pores to remove excess oil and debris. A great option is CeraVe SA Cleanser, which targets oil without over-drying the skin.

Pro Tip: Change your pillowcase regularly! Oils and dirt can build up and contribute to clogged pores.

2. Exfoliate, but Don’t Overdo It

Exfoliating is crucial for oily skin because it removes dead skin cells and oil that can clog your pores. But there’s a fine line—over-exfoliating can irritate the skin and worsen oil production. Dr. Shah advises using a chemical exfoliator like Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, which is popular for oily skin.

Limit exfoliation to two to three times a week to avoid overdoing it, and always exfoliate at night to prevent sun sensitivity.

3. Add a Treatment for Extra Care

Treating your skin with targeted ingredients can significantly improve its texture and reduce breakouts. Retinol, a vitamin A derivative, is an excellent option for oily skin. It helps reduce oil production, smooth out skin texture, and prevent breakouts. Dr. Shah loves Paula’s Choice 1% Retinol for this purpose.

For acne-prone skin, you might also consider sulfur-based treatments or benzoyl peroxide to keep pimples at bay. Just remember, it’s important not to overuse these potent products. Start slowly and only use them once a day, ideally at night.

4. Moisturize to Balance Your Skin

Contrary to popular belief, moisturizing is a must for oily skin! If you skip this step, your skin might produce even more oil to compensate for the lack of moisture. Dr. Shah recommends lightweight, oil-free moisturizers like Cetaphil Mattifying Acne Moisturizer or CeraVe PM Moisturizer.

Look for moisturizers with ingredients like niacinamide, which can help regulate oil production while keeping your skin hydrated without making it greasy.

5. Always Apply SPF

Sunscreen is non-negotiable. Dr. Shah emphasizes that everyone, no matter their skin type, should wear sunscreen every day. He suggests using a lightweight, non-comedogenic sunscreen like EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46. SPF protects your skin from harmful UV rays while keeping your pores clear from clogging agents like benzophenones and PABA.

Top Ingredients to Look for in Oily Skin Products

If you’re serious about managing oily skin, you need to be picky about the ingredients in your skincare products. Dr. Shah recommends the following all-star ingredients:

• Salicylic Acid: This BHA unclogs pores and reduces oil, making it perfect for regular use.
• Retinol: Reduces oil production and smooths out skin texture.
• Niacinamide: Helps regulate oil production and soothes inflammation.
• Sulfur: Known for its acne-fighting properties.

Extra Tips to Manage Oily Skin

In addition to a solid skincare routine, a few simple habits can help control excess oil throughout the day.

Use Blotting Papers

Blotting papers are a lifesaver for reducing midday shine. Simply press the paper onto oily areas, like your T-zone, and let it absorb the excess oil without smudging your makeup.

Remove Makeup Properly

Cleansers alone may not be enough to remove makeup, especially if you use oil-based or long-wear products. Use an oil-free makeup remover before cleansing your face to ensure your skin is completely clean and free from pore-clogging debris.

Cleanse After Sweating

If you’ve been sweating, whether from exercise or hot weather, be sure to cleanse your face afterward. Sweat can mix with oils and clog your pores, leading to breakouts.

Consult a Dermatologist for Professional Treatments

While a consistent skincare routine can work wonders, sometimes professional treatments might be necessary. Dr. Shah mentions that blue light therapy can help control oil production, and prescription medications like Accutane can reduce oil production dramatically if you suffer from severe acne.

Takeaway: Patience and Consistency Are Key

Managing oily skin is all about consistency. With the right routine, you can reduce shine, prevent breakouts, and keep your skin looking its best. Don’t expect miracles overnight—it can take weeks, even months, to see noticeable improvements. Stick with your routine, and if you’re not seeing results, consult a dermatologist for personalized advice.