Skincare Tips for Oily and Acne-Prone Skin

• Cleanser (AM/PM): 
  Use a foaming or gel cleanser to remove excess oil without drying the skin. Ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide are ideal for acne-prone, oily skin. Look for a mild, gentle cleanser as using a face wash that is too harsh can irritate your skin and trigger increased oil production. 
  
  
  
  This is a great oil-free cleanser for oily skin and acne-prone skin as well as this ZO Skin Exfoliating Cleanser for a deep clean.
  
  
• Tone (Optional, AM/PM): Apply an alcohol-free toner to minimize the appearance of pores and eliminate excess oil. 
  
  
  
  This Rejuv Dual-Action Toner has salicylic acid and is alcohol-free to clear skin build up. 
  
  
• Serum/Treatment(PM):  If you’re prone to acne, using ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or sulfur in the morning can help reduce oil and prevent breakouts. In the evening, a retinol product can increase cell turnover. 
  
  
  
  Try this acne spot treatment or this retinol that helps with anti-aging and clearing breakouts. 

• Moisturize (AM/PM): Use a lightweight moisturizer to hydrate skin without adding excess oil. Look for one that is oil-free, noncomedogenic and water-based. Never skip moisturizer as your skin can produce more oil to compensate for lack of hydration. 
  
  
  
  This is a lightweight moisturizer hydrating gel with anti-aging benefits.  
  
  
  
  
• Sunscreen (AM): As always, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) daily to protect without causing breakouts. Using sunscreen that contains either titanium dioxide or zinc oxide can prevent acne. 
  
  
  
  Here's a noncomedogenic zinc oxide sunscreen for oily skin. 

Key Skincare Ingredients for Oily and Acne-Prone Skin: 

• Salicylic Acid (BHA): Helps unclog pores, reduces blackheads and prevents future breakouts. 
• Benzoyl Peroxide: Also great for reducing breakouts, but can be irritating - so start slowly. 
• Niacinamide: Controls oil and reduces inflammation.
• Hyaluronic Acid: Provides essential hydration beneath skin surface
• Retinol: Renews skin with cellular turnover and manages acne.
  
  
  

   

Additional Tips for Oily and Acne-Prone Skin:

• Use Blotting Papers: Gently press, don't rub, to remove excess oil throughout the day.
• Cleanse your face after exercising: Washing your face immediately after a workout will help remove sweat, oil, and dirt. 
• Avoid products that contain alcohol, which can cause increased oil secretion, and anything thick or greasy, like cocoa butter, shea butter, and Vaseline.
• Avoid Harsh Scrubs: Harsh scrubbing can increase oil production. Use gentle chemical exfoliants such as this exfoliating lotion. 
• Choose Non-Comedogenic Products: Always ensure products are labeled "non-comedogenic" or "oil-free" to prevent clogged pores. You can also utilize ingredient checkers to ensure your skincare product is safe for acne prone skin. 

• Don't forget about your makeup: Try to choose oil-free, water-based makeup products. There are matte products that can also help reduce shine from oily skin.

• Don't sleep in your makeup: Always remove all makeup before going to sleep as the products will clog your pores.

• Don't touch your face throughout the day: Touching your face can spread dirt, oil, and bacteria from your hands to your face. 

The key to managing oily or acne-prone skin is establishing a consistent skincare routine with the right skincare products and habits. Oily skin and acne can be challenging. If your skin continues to bother you, even after a consistent daily regimen - seek the help of a dermatologist.

Sources: 
https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/skin-care-routine-for-oily-skin#takeaway
https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/dry/oily-skin