Living in the Philippines means dealing with a hot and humid climate all year round. While this weather has its perks, it also poses unique challenges, particularly for individuals with oily skin. Oily skin can be frustrating to manage, as it often leads to acne breakouts and other skincare issues.¹

Contrary to popular belief, oily skin is often a sign of dehydration. When your skin lacks sufficient moisture, your sebaceous glands go into overdrive, producing more oil to compensate for the dryness. This excess oil can clog pores and lead to acne breakouts, making it essential to address both oiliness and dehydration simultaneously.¹

Dermatologists recommend the following key steps for achieving the right balance in your skincare routine:

1. Cleansing

Proper cleansing is essential for oily skin. Many types of dirt, impurities, and cosmetic products are not water-soluble so substances that can emulsify them into finer particles should be used to make them water-soluble and easier to remove. An ideal cleanser should do all this without causing dryness or irritation. Gentle, oil-free cleansers with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide are best. These ingredients help remove excess oil, unclog pores, and prevent acne breakouts.^2,3 Wash your face twice daily, in the morning and before bed, using lukewarm water. Avoid hot water, as it can strip away natural oils and cause dryness.⁴

2. Toning

Toning helps balance the skin's pH levels and removes traces of dirt or cleanser. Look for an alcohol-free toner that contains ingredients like witch hazel or tea tree oil, known for their astringent and antimicrobial properties. Apply the toner using a cotton pad and gently wipe it across your face.⁵

3. Exfoliation

Exfoliation removes excess corneocytes, or dead skill cells, and encourages the creation of new skin cells resulting in more polished, smoother, translucent skin. Use a gentle exfoliator containing ingredients like salicylic acid or alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) once or twice a week only. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product and avoid harsh scrubbing. Overdoing exfoliation can irritate oily skin and trigger more oil production.⁶ Apply moisturizer after exfoliating to keep your skin hydrated.

4. Moisturizing

Many people with oily skin mistakenly skip moisturizers, fearing they will make their skin oilier. However, it's crucial to hydrate your skin even if it's oily.^1,7 Opt for moisturizers that are lightweight, oil-free, and non-comedogenic, which means they won't clog your pores. Look for ingredients such as hyaluronic acid or glycerin, which help retain moisture without adding extra oiliness. Apply moisturizer twice daily, after cleansing and toning.⁷

5. Sun Protection

Protecting your skin from the harmful effects of the sun is vital, regardless of your skin type. Sunscreens with an SPF of 30 are ideal, as they protect against roughly 97% of UVB rays. Sunscreens with higher SPF ratings will only give you a small increase in protection.⁸ Spray or gel-based sunscreens are best for those with acne or oily skin. Apply sunscreen generously on all exposed areas of your face and reapply it every two hours, especially when outdoors.⁹

6. Treatment

In addition to the basic steps, dermatologists often recommend including targeted treatments for specific concerns like acne or excessive oiliness. Your dermatologist may prescribe products with ingredients like retinol, niacinamide, or benzoyl peroxide, which can help control oil production and reduce acne. Incorporate these treatments into your routine after cleansing and before moisturizing, following the instructions provided.^1,2

Aside from these steps, here are other useful tips that experts swear by¹⁰:

• Avoid touching your face frequently, as it can transfer dirt and oil to your skin.
• Use oil-absorbing sheets or blotting papers to remove excess oil without disturbing your makeup.
• Choose makeup products that are oil-free and non-comedogenic to prevent pore blockage.
• Never go to sleep with make up on, be sure to remove all of it before going to bed.

Developing a skin-care routine tailored for oily skin can help you maintain a healthy and balanced complexion. Remember to cleanse, tone, moisturize, protect from the sun, exfoliate (but not excessively), and include targeted treatments if needed. By following these evidence-based recommendations provided by dermatologists, you can effectively manage oily skin and achieve the healthy, glowing skin you desire.

Keep in mind that every person’s skin is different, and there is no "one size fits all" approach to skin care. If you are concerned about the amount of oil your skin is producing or if you’re struggling with blackheads or acne, make an appointment to see a board-certified dermatologist.

References:
1. Del Rosso JQ. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol 2013;6:19–27. 2. Zaenglein AL, et al. J Am Acad Dermatol 2016;74:945–973. 3. Mukhopadhyay P. Indian J Dermatol 2011;56:2–6. 4. Herrero-Fernandez M, et al. S. J Clin Med 2022;11:298. 5. Rodan K, Fields K, Falla TJ. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol 2017;10:3–9. 6. Rodan K, Fields K, Majewski G, Falla T. Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open 2016;4:e1152. 7. Purnamawati S, Indrastuti N, Danarti R, Saefudin T. Clin Med Res 2017;15:75–87. 8. Wu, D. Sun protection: Appropriate sunscreen use. Available at https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/sun-protection-appropriate-sunscreen-use-2018062114114. Accessed 12 July 2023. 9. Latha MS, Martis J, Shobha V, et al. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol 2013;6:16–26. 10. American Academy of Dermatology. How to control oily skin. Available at https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/dry/oily-skin. Accessed 12 July 2023.