Skip to main content

FOREFRONT BLOG

Category: Skin Care

Best Skincare Routine for Oily Skin

Updated: July 15, 2026
Best Skincare Routine for Oily Skin
Share this article:

Summary

The article outlines an effective skincare routine specifically for individuals with oily skin, emphasizing the need for tailored products and practices. Key steps include cleansing twice daily with a mild water-based cleanser, exfoliating 2 to 3 times a week to remove dead skin cells, using a toner to eliminate residual impurities, applying a light gel moisturizer, and finishing with sunscreen in the morning. Each step is designed to manage oiliness while promoting overall skin health. The right approach may vary based on individual skin goals and conditions.

Everyone’s skin type can vary. Some people have dry skin, some oily, and some a combination. According to Dr. Sarah Campbell, board-certified dermatologist with Forefront Dermatology, “If you have oily skin you require a different skincare routine than someone with dry skin. Oily skin feels greasy and tends to have very large, visible pores. The right skincare products can keep your oil at bay and improve your skin’s overall health. For the best skincare routine for oily skin follow these 5 easy steps:”

 Step 1: Cleanse

When you have oily skin your skin needs to be cleansed both morning and night. Dirt, oil and bacteria can builds up on your skin throughout the day leading to clogged pores. Both in the morning and before bed, use a mild water-based cleanser to clean off the impurities on your skin allowing your pores to breath.

 

Step 2: Exfoliate – but not every day

Oily skin is prone to dead skin cell build up, blackheads, and clogged pores. To prevent clogged pores and rough skin, it’s important that you exfoliate your skin regularly – on average 2 to 3 times a week - with a gentle exfoliant. Exfoliating your skin not only clears it of dead skin cells but also boosts cell turnover and gives life back to your skin’s texture.

Request an appointment with one of our skin and body care specialists today

Find a location near you

 

Step 3: Toner

Toners get rid of residual dirt and makeup that may have been left behind after cleansing. Toners prep your skin for additional skincare products allowing your skin to absorb more active ingredients like antioxidants. A good toner for oily skin will address oiliness and shine, without drying out the skin. Look for a toner that refines your skin’s texture and minimizes your pores, while at the same time maintains the moisture balance of your skin.

 

Step 4: Moisturize

Seal in all the nutrients you just supplied to your skin with a light moisturizer. Oily skin does best with gel-type moisturizes, as thicker cream moisturizers may feel too heavy and may make skin look too oily.

 

Step 5: Sunscreen (in the morning)

Finish your morning routine with an SPF30 sunscreen to protect it against harmful UV rays and prevent premature aging.

 

Skin Struggles?

At Forefront Dermatology, we know that life is all about the moments when you don’t need us. That’s why we’re here for all the moments when you do. We offer comprehensive and compassionate care for all skin conditions and create customized treatment plans for all ages – even the tiniest of patients!  Find a Forefront dermatologist near you today.

Share this article:
About Forefront Dermatology

About Forefront Dermatology

At Forefront Dermatology, we believe that healthy, beautiful skin is a reflection of overall well-being. That's why we're committed to providing the highest quality skin and body care, backed by cutting-edge technology and a team of world-class experts. In other words, we're always at the forefront of skin and body healthcare.

Our goal isn't just about how you look on the outside. We aim to transform lives.

By delivering industry-leading skin and body healthcare to more people in more places, we move closer and closer to this goal for thousands of people every day.