Skip to content
Free shipping within Australia for all orders over $99 AUD
Free shipping within Australia for all orders over $99 AUD

How To Care For Oily Skin — Your Step-By-Step Guide

Balance shine, refine pores, and keep your barrier happy with clean, effective formulas.

Shop Oily-Skin Solutions View All Skincare

In This Guide

Understanding Oily Skin: Why Shine & Congestion Happen

Oily skin produces more sebum than it needs, which can sit on the surface and mix with dead skin cells. The goal isn’t to strip your skin — it’s to balance oil flow, keep pores clear, and protect the barrier.

  • Genetics & Hormones

    Some of us naturally make more oil; hormonal shifts can turn up the shine and drive congestion.

  • Pore Blockage

    When excess oil mixes with dead skin cells, pores look more visible and feel bumpy.

  • Over-Cleansing

    Harsh, foamy cleansers can trigger rebound oiliness. Choose gentle surfactants and pH-balanced formulas.

  • Heavy Textures

    Rich occlusives and waxy finishes can weigh skin down. Lightweight gels and emulsions tend to wear best.

Hero Ingredients For Balanced, Clear-Looking Skin

Look for actives that help keep pores clear while supporting a healthy barrier.

  • Salicylic Acid (BHA)

    Oil-soluble exfoliant that helps decongest inside the pore and smooth texture.

  • Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)

    Helps reduce the look of redness, refine the appearance of pores, and support the barrier.

  • Lightweight Humectants

    Hyaluronic acid and glycerin hydrate without heaviness.

  • Balancing Botanicals

    Blue tansy, green tea and cica help calm the look of congestion and shine.

  • Mineral SPF

    Protects against UV while feeling breathable on oilier skin types.

The Clean Beauty Difference

We prioritise barrier-friendly formulas that minimise congestion without stripping.

What We Avoid

  • Sulphates that over-cleanse and trigger rebound oil
  • Heavy occlusives that feel waxy or pore-smothering
  • High-fragrance formulas that may irritate

What We Include

  • pH-balanced cleansers that leave skin fresh, not tight
  • BHA + niacinamide to keep pores clear and balanced
  • Light gel moisturisers and mineral SPF

Lifestyle Tips For Shine Control

Simple tweaks support long-term clarity.

  • Cleanse, Don’t Strip

    Twice daily is plenty. If you’re oily in the T-zone only, use a milder cleanser on cheeks.

  • Blot, Then Top-Up

    Use blotting papers before reapplying powder to avoid build-up.

  • Choose Breathable Makeup

    Opt for non-comedogenic bases and remove thoroughly each night.

  • Stay Consistent

    Expect visible balancing within 4–8 weeks with a steady routine and regular SPF.

Your Simple Step Ritual For Acne

  1. Cleanse - Fresh, Not Stripped

    A balancing foaming cleanser lifts excess oil and sunscreen without leaving that tight feel. The lightweight foam washes away impurities while protecting skin’s natural barrier. It leaves your complexion feeling refreshed and clean, never squeaky or uncomfortable. Ceramide and balancing agents help regulate oil production over time, reducing midday shine. Used daily, it promotes a clear complexion and prevents pore congestion. This gentle yet effective cleanse lays the foundation for the rest of your ritual, ensuring your skin is ready to absorb treatment steps. With consistent use, you’ll notice a smoother, healthier, and more comfortable balance to your skin.

  2. Refine With BHA

    Salicylic acid helps decongest inside the pore to smooth texture and minimise the look of blackheads. Its oil-soluble properties allow it to reach deeper into pores compared to other acids. Regular use keeps pores clearer, helping reduce breakouts and shine over time. The formula is balanced with hydrating agents like hyaluronic acid to prevent dryness. Consistency is key - results become more visible with steady, long-term use. This refining step ensures skin remains smooth and balanced, keeping excess oil under control. Over time, your complexion will appear more even, with a noticeable reduction in clogged pores and congestion.

  3. Treat (AM) - Niacinamide

    Daily niacinamide supports a healthier barrier and helps rebalance visible shine. It works by calming oil activity and reinforcing your skin’s ability to hold moisture. This means less greasy buildup and fewer midday touch-ups. Niacinamide also helps refine the look of pores, improving texture and clarity. With continuous use, redness and blotchiness reduce, leaving a smoother and more even-toned complexion. It layers seamlessly under moisturiser and SPF without heaviness. Over time, niacinamide becomes a core player in maintaining shine-controlled, resilient, and comfortable skin.

  4. Moisturise - Lightweight Gel

    An oil-free gel moisturiser hydrates without heaviness, leaving a fresh, satin finish. The water-based formula provides essential hydration while maintaining a breathable, weightless feel. It keeps the skin barrier supported, which helps reduce oil overproduction caused by dehydration. Ideal for oily and combination skin, it balances without clogging pores. Its refreshing texture makes it perfect for both day and night use. Over time, skin feels smoother, more comfortable, and less greasy. This step ensures hydration is locked in while shine stays under control all day long.

  5. Optional: Weekly Clay Mask

    A balancing clay mask helps mattify and refine the look of pores without over-drying. Clay absorbs excess oil and impurities, leaving skin refreshed and visibly clearer. Used weekly, it helps maintain a smooth texture and reduces the appearance of shine in oily zones. The formula is designed to cleanse deeply while still being gentle, avoiding the harshness of traditional drying masks. With consistent use, it refines pores and helps balance skin’s natural oils. This optional step works best before special occasions to create a fresh, mattified base. Over time, it contributes to a clearer, more controlled, and healthy-looking complexion.

  6. Protect (AM) - Sheer Mineral SPF

    Lightweight mineral drops defend skin without a greasy feel, locking in all your progress. The sheer formula blends seamlessly into skin, avoiding any chalky residue. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. Added antioxidants boost defense against environmental aggressors that can worsen shine and imbalance. It doubles as a breathable base under makeup, keeping skin comfortable and matte. With daily use, this SPF preserves the results of your routine, keeping pores clear and tone even. Over time, it ensures that skin looks and feels protected, balanced, and shine-free.

Further Information

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I really need moisturiser if I’m oily?

Yes. Skipping moisturiser can push your skin to produce more oil. Choose a lightweight gel or oil-free cream that hydrates without heaviness.

How often should I use acids?

Start with salicylic 2 nights per week and slowly build to 3–4 if skin stays comfortable. Avoid using on nights you’re sensitised or freshly shaved.

Can I use facial oils on oily skin?

You can, but keep it light and occasional. If you enjoy oils, use a few drops over moisturiser at night only when skin feels dehydrated.

Will sunscreen make me shiny?

Look for sheer mineral formulas and apply in thin layers. Blot midday and reapply with a mineral powder or brush-on SPF if needed.

What’s the best order to layer?

AM: cleanse → niacinamide → moisturiser → SPF. PM: cleanse → BHA (on chosen nights) → moisturiser. Add a weekly clay mask when you want extra refinement.

About The Author

Erin Norden

Erin Norden

Certified Dermatologist & Clean Beauty Expert

Erin is a professional Makeup Artist with over 15 years’ experience and the founder of Clean Beauty Market, Australia’s leading destination for luxury clean beauty. Since 2017, she has curated and tested hundreds of high-performing, cruelty-free brands, setting the standard for clean beauty nationwide. Featured in publications like Marie Claire, Elle, and Cosmopolitan, and on Channel 7’s Kochie’s Business Builders, Erin is widely recognised as a trusted voice and advocate in the clean beauty space.

  • 15+ years as a professional Makeup Artist (establishes deep, hands-on industry knowledge).
  • Founder of Clean Beauty Market (est. 2017), Australia’s leading clean beauty retailer.
  • Transitioned her entire professional and personal beauty kit to clean, sustainable alternatives, proving she lives what she teaches.