How to Stop an Oily Face

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

Dealing with oily skin and acne can be really frustrating, especially if you don’t know what’s causing it. There’s no need to worry, though—we’ve got your back. From cleansers and makeup to lifestyle changes and prescription medications, there are plenty of different ways to address your oily skin once and for all. Here are 24 effective tips to help you get started.

1

Use a gentle cleanser.

PDF download Download Article
  1. Using harsh cleansers on your face can actually cause your face to produce more oil to compensate for all of the natural oils that were removed. [1]
    2. Advertisement
2

Cleanse your face gently and carefully.

PDF download Download Article
  1. This can irritate your skin; plus, scrubbing causes your face to produce more oil to compensate for all of the natural oils that were removed. If you do use a washcloth to wash your face, apply gentle pressure. [3]
3

Wash your face in the morning and at night.

PDF download Download Article
  1. Wash your face after you wake up and before you go to bed. [4]
    2. Advertisement
4

Cleanse your face with warm water.

PDF download Download Article
  1. This actually causes your skin to produce more oil to compensate. [5]
5

Apply toner to the oily parts of your skin.

PDF download Download Article
  1. Target oily areas of your skin and leave the normal or dry parts alone. [6]
    2. Advertisement
6

Use astringent pads on the go.

PDF download Download Article
  1. Keep some in your purse or at your office if you tend to get oily skin later in the day. [7]
7

Save clay masks for special occasions.

PDF download Download Article
  1. Instead, use clay mask treatments only for special events when you need your skin to be oil-free for a long time. [8]
    2. Advertisement
8

Watch out for moisturizers with oily ingredients.

PDF download Download Article
  1. These types of ingredients will add excess oil to your skin and make oily skin worse. Read the ingredients listed on the moisturizer packaging before you buy. [9]
9

Choose a moisturizer that contains dimethicone.

PDF download Download Article
  1. On the other hand, petroleum-containing moisturizers may make your skin oilier. Look for moisturizers labeled oil-free and that contain dimethicone rather than petroleum. [10]
    2. Advertisement
10

Look for non-comedogenic or non-acnegenic moisturizers.

PDF download Download Article
  1. No matter what moisturizer you choose, make sure that the packaging says that it is non-comedogenic or non-acnegenic. [11]
11

Use moisturizer sparingly.

PDF download Download Article
  1. Just apply a thin layer of moisturizer at first and then decide if you need more. Only dispense a chickpea size amount onto your fingertips and only add more if your face still seems dry after applying it. [12]
    2. Advertisement
12

Experiment with different moisturizers.

PDF download Download Article
  1. Remember—just because a particular moisturizer works well for someone else with oily skin does not mean that it will work the same for you. [13]
    • If a friend recommends a product or you read rave reviews about a moisturizer, try to get a sample before you buy it. Makeup counters in department stores often provide samples of their products if you ask nicely.
13

Use a matte primer.

PDF download Download Article
  1. Apply some after you have cleansed and moisturized your skin but before you apply foundation. [14]
    2. Advertisement
14

Choose oil-free and non-comedogenic makeup products.

PDF download Download Article
  1. The next time you go makeup shopping, look for foundation, powder, blush, and bronzer that are labeled oil-free and non-comedogenic. [15]
15

Use a mineral-based powder.

PDF download Download Article
  1. Apply a light layer of mineral-based powder to your face using a large powder brush. If you can, keep powder on hand at all times for touch-ups throughout the day. [16]
    2. Advertisement
16

Apply all makeup sparingly.

PDF download Download Article
  1. Plus, thin layers help prevent excess oil production throughout the day. Use just a small amount of each product that you use to reduce the amount of makeup on your face. [17]
17

Stock up on foods that aren’t oil-producing.

PDF download Download Article
  1. Dairy and enriched flour products also contribute to oily skin. Avoid these foods or at least limit your consumption of them to help stop an oily face. [18]
    2. Advertisement
18

Eat oil-controlling foods.

PDF download Download Article
  1. This includes foods that are high in fiber, such as legumes, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. [19] Leafy greens and citrus fruits are especially effective against oily skin. Prepare vegetables without adding excess oil by steaming or boiling them. [20]
19

Drink plenty of water.

PDF download Download Article
  1. Getting enough water each day is essential to keeping oily skin under control. [21]
    2. Advertisement
20

Control your daily stress levels.

PDF download Download Article
  1. To control stress and the excess oils that it causes, incorporate some relaxation techniques into your daily routine such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing. [22]
21

Ask a dermatologist about topical retinoid treatments.

PDF download Download Article
  1. Topical retinoid creams can reduce oil and fight acne as well. This treatment is only effective in about 20-30% of patients.
    2. Advertisement
22

Discuss hormonal treatments with your dermatologist.

PDF download Download Article
  1. In some cases, taking an oral contraceptive pill can stop excess oil production and help clear up acne.
23

Talk to a dermatologist about chemical peels.

PDF download Download Article
  1. The results of these treatments are only temporary, but a dermatologist can combine peels with other treatments to maximize your results.
    2. Advertisement
24

Inquire about Accutane/Roaccutane treatments.

PDF download Download Article
  1. It’s derived from vitamin A. Patients usually take Accutane daily for 15-20 weeks. [23] Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant cannot use Accutane because it may cause birth defects. [24]

Community Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    While cleansing my face, is it possible to use cold water?
    Community Answer
    Of course. Warm water is suggested because it opens up the pores, making moisturizing more effective, but there's nothing wrong with using cold water, it can be very refreshing.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 9 Helpful 48
  • Question
    My face is very oily and I have red acne. What do I do?
    Community Answer
    There are moisturizers that have a matte finish that can prevent you from becoming oily. Invest in a skincare product that is meant for oily skin, and use oil sheets during the day.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 12 Helpful 37
  • Question
    My skin is oily, and I have a lot of pimples. How should I care for my facial skin?
    Community Answer
    Wash your face twice a day: once int the morning and once at night. This will reduce bacteria which feed on the oil produced by skin at night and cause acne and clogged pores. Use a toner and noncomedogenic or nonacnegenic moisturizer after washing. You can also apply a clay mask.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 3 Helpful 19
See more answers
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Video

      Reader Videos

      Submit a Video Tip!

      Share a quick video tip and help bring articles to life with your friendly advice. Your insights could make a real difference and help millions of people!

      Submit a Video

      Tips

      Show More Tips
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Make a Cleanser for Oily Skin
      How to
      Prevent Oily Skin
      How to
      Cure Oily Skin
      How to
      Clean Clogged Pores
      The Ultimate Guide to Applying Makeup on Oily Skin
      How to
      Wash and Prevent an Oily Nose
      How to
      Care for Combination Skin
      How to
      Choose Moisturizer for Oily Skin
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ Joanna Kula. Skincare Specialist. Expert Interview. 9 July 2019.
      2. ↑ Joanna Kula. Skincare Specialist. Expert Interview. 9 July 2019.
      3. ↑ http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/acne/features/oily-skin
      4. ↑ http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/acne/features/oily-skin
      5. ↑ http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/acne/features/oily-skin
      6. ↑ http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/acne/features/oily-skin
      7. ↑ http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/acne/features/oily-skin
      8. ↑ http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/acne/features/oily-skin
      9. ↑ http://www.beautylish.com/a/vcjir/oily-skin-myths-solved
      1. ↑ http://www.teenvogue.com/beauty/skin-care/2013-01/how-to-moisturize-oily-skin-types
      2. ↑ http://www.teenvogue.com/beauty/skin-care/2013-01/how-to-moisturize-oily-skin-types
      3. ↑ http://www.teenvogue.com/beauty/skin-care/2013-01/how-to-moisturize-oily-skin-types
      4. ↑ http://www.beautylish.com/a/vcjir/oily-skin-myths-solved
      5. ↑ http://beautyhigh.com/oily-skin-tips/
      6. ↑ https://www.webmd.com/beauty/features/oily-skin-how-to-make-makeup-last
      7. ↑ http://beautyhigh.com/oily-skin-tips/
      8. ↑ https://www.webmd.com/beauty/features/oily-skin-how-to-make-makeup-last
      9. ↑ http://www.mensxp.com/grooming/skin-care/9212-foods-for-oily-skin-what-to-eat-and-avoid.html
      10. ↑ http://www.mensxp.com/grooming/skin-care/9212-foods-for-oily-skin-what-to-eat-and-avoid.html
      11. ↑ http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-29960/Eat-way-healthy-skin.html
      12. ↑ http://www.mensxp.com/grooming/skin-care/9212-foods-for-oily-skin-what-to-eat-and-avoid.html
      13. ↑ http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/11/071109194053.htm
      14. ↑ http://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-6661/accutane-oral/details#uses
      15. ↑ http://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-6661/accutane-oral/details#precautions
      16. ↑ Joanna Kula. Skincare Specialist. Expert Interview. 9 July 2019.
      17. ↑ http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/acne/features/oily-skin
      18. ↑ http://beautyhigh.com/oily-skin-tips/
      19. Videos provided by Diana Saldana

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To stop an oily face, wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser, which will keep your face clean without causing excess oil. After you wash your face, apply an oil-free moisturizer that contains dimethicone, which will give your face a matte finish. Also, apply a clay mask before special occasions, which will help dry out your skin and remove most of the oils on your face. You can also eat more leafy greens and citrus fruits, which can help prevent oily skin. For more tips, like how you should do your makeup to avoid an oily face, keep reading!

      Did this summary help you?
      In other languages
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 1,402,323 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • Anonymous

        Oct 4, 2016

        "Just knowing other options that may help in keeping the oil from my forehead, nose and chin at bay. I'm 50yrs ..." more
      More reader stories Hide reader stories
      Share your story

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement