Oily Skin Needs Structure—Here's the Exact Routine Dermatologists Want You to Follow

A good cleanser is the first step to managing oily skin, but securing the right formula is key. "A gel or foaming cleanser with salicylic acid is ideal because it helps dissolve excess oil and clear out pores without leaving the skin tight," says Collins. "Look for options that are sulfate-free to avoid overstripping, which can backfire and increase oil production."

Pros: Safe for sensitive skin, unclogs pores

Cons: May be drying for some

Key ingredients: 2% salicylic acid, glycerin

Customer review: "After a few weeks of use, I noticed fewer clogged pores, smoother texture, and somewhat less frequent breakouts (especially in the T‑zone and around my chin)."

A toner is usually the second step for a clean base, which is why this Paula's Choice formula is a must. "A chemical exfoliant with salicylic acid or a gentle AHA/BHA blend helps keep pores clear and reduces congestion," says Collins. "These work better than physical scrubs, which can irritate the skin and stimulate more oil production."

Pros: Treats uneven texture, reduce pores, boost cell turnover

Cons: Pricey

Key ingredients: Salicylic acid (BHA) 2%, green tea, methylpropanediol

Customer review: "This product has been working wonders for my acne prone skin. I bought the mini sized bottle to try and I'm about to reorder the bigger size as I am so amazed at the difference in my skin since using this product."

Those with oily skin may be apprehensive about using a moisturizer, but not using one can lead to more oil production to compensate for a lack of hydration. "A lightweight, oil-free, noncomedogenic moisturizer is essential," says Collins. "Gel-based formulas hydrate the skin without clogging pores and help prevent the rebound oiliness that happens when skin is dehydrated."

Pros: Absorbs excess oil, won't clog pores, moisturizing

Cons: Can pill

Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide

Customer review: "I've tried a few different brands for daily face lotions and this is hands down the best one for someone with oily skin. There's no scent, it feels long-lasting, and is A+ with moisturizing."

A good serum doesn't require a major splurge. "This is an easy and very budget-friendly, no-frills option to add niacinamide to your routine," says Guo. The zinc PCA in this formula treats dark spots, uneven texture, and excess oil.

Pros: Budget-friendly, treats dark spots and uneven texture

Cons: Some say it's sticky

Key ingredient: Zinc PCA

Customer review: "After using this product for a week the size of my pores has changed dramatically. Places were I have had chronically clogged pores, noticeable blackheads are clearing. Definitely a mystery buy, only regret not buying it sooner!"

Using sunscreen daily is a nonnegotiable, but finding one for oily skin can be tricky. Collins suggests opting for a matte, oil-free, or mineral-based sunscreen. "These help control shine throughout the day while protecting against UV damage, which can worsen inflammation and breakouts," she explains. This Shiseido sunscreen checks all the boxes while protecting skin with SPF 42. (The American Academy of Dermatology recommends SPF 30 or more.)

Pros: Treats fine lines, wrinkles, acne, and dark spots

Cons: Cast takes time to settle

Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, spirulina energy essence, licorice root extract

Customer review: "My holy grail sunscreen! I have oily skin so usually sunscreen makes me look greasy but I wear this one every day and no one would know!! It's pricy, but worth it for me."

When I first heard about this the Vita-A Retinal 0.1% Shot Booster Treatment, I thought it was an in-office treatment. As it turns out, a lot of users say it might as well be considering one with how well it works. "This is easy to use and combined with vitamin C and peptides," says Guo. "It's a cost-effective combination product that you can start with two to three times a week and slowly ramp up to daily usage."

Pros: Lightweight, fragrance-free, nonsticky, nongreasy

Cons: Takes a while to see results

Key ingredients: 0.1% Retinal, 3% matrixyl, niacinamide, 1% panthenol

Customer review: "Really has made a difference in my skin routine. After 1 month, there's a huge difference in fine lines and wrinkles around my eyes! Don't over do it, but it's a miracle worker in a bottle."

I tend to have oily skin just along my T-zone, especially in the summer, and that's where blotting papers come in. I like to keep some in my purse when I'm on the go and need a midday touch-up to keep shine at bay. Collins agrees, adding that blotting papers and mattifying primers are great for midday oil control without disrupting makeup or skincare.

Pros: Absorbs oil without messing up makeup, travel-friendly

Cons: None

Key ingredient: Abaca leaf

Customer review: "By far the best blotting pads I've ever used. I have been using these for years and always have them with me in the summers in Texas, and my makeup doesn’t budge at all with them. I've had no irritation either, which is a plus with my sensitive and acne prone skin."