Does oily skin still need a moisturiser?

Yes. Skipping it can prompt skin to produce more oil to make up for the lost hydration. A lightweight, gel-based, oil-free moisturiser adds water without adding shine.

Can oily skin also be dehydrated?

Yes — oiliness relates to oil production while dehydration relates to water content, and the two can occur together. A humectant such as hyaluronic acid addresses dehydration without adding shine, which is compatible with an otherwise oil-focused routine.

Is washing oily skin more often better?

Not necessarily. Over-cleansing can strip the skin barrier and, similarly to skipping moisturiser, can prompt more oil production as skin tries to compensate. Twice a day with a gentle, non-stripping cleanser is generally enough for most people.

Best Products for Oily Skin

Oily Skin

Oily skin produces more sebum than other skin types, which typically shows up as shine within a few hours of cleansing, most noticeably across the forehead, nose and chin. It often comes with more visible pores and a higher tendency toward congestion or breakouts, and makeup can slide or fade faster than it would on drier skin. A common misconception is that oily skin does not need a moisturiser — in practice, skipping it can prompt skin to produce even more oil to compensate for the lack of surface hydration, so the aim is usually to add water without adding oil. Lightweight, water-based or gel formulas tend to suit oily skin far better than rich creams or balms, which are formulated with drier skin in mind.

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What to look for

Niacinamide, widely used to help with the appearance of oiliness and enlarged pores
Salicylic acid, whose oil solubility lets it work inside congested pores rather than only on the surface
Lightweight, gel or fluid moisturisers described as oil-free or non-comedogenic
Hyaluronic acid for hydration that does not add shine, since it is a humectant rather than an oil

What to avoid

Skipping moisturiser entirely, which can encourage skin to compensate with more oil
Heavy, occlusive creams and balms that sit on the surface and feel greasy on oily skin
Over-cleansing or harsh, stripping formulas, which can trigger the same oil-compensation cycle as skipping moisturiser

Frequently asked questions

Does oily skin still need a moisturiser?: Yes. Skipping it can prompt skin to produce more oil to make up for the lost hydration. A lightweight, gel-based, oil-free moisturiser adds water without adding shine.
Can oily skin also be dehydrated?: Yes — oiliness relates to oil production while dehydration relates to water content, and the two can occur together. A humectant such as hyaluronic acid addresses dehydration without adding shine, which is compatible with an otherwise oil-focused routine.
Is washing oily skin more often better?: Not necessarily. Over-cleansing can strip the skin barrier and, similarly to skipping moisturiser, can prompt more oil production as skin tries to compensate. Twice a day with a gentle, non-stripping cleanser is generally enough for most people.

This is general information, not medical advice. It does not describe any specific product, and does not diagnose, treat or cure any condition. If you have a persistent skin or scalp concern, speak to a pharmacist, GP or dermatologist.

Oily Skin

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