Collection: Skincare Products for Oily Skin

Sebum-Balancing and Pore-Tightening Care Guide for Oily Skin

Oily skin is a skin type that occurs when sebaceous glands produce more sebum than necessary. Sebum is the skin's natural protector; it locks in moisture and forms a barrier against external factors. However, when its production becomes imbalanced, the skin constantly appears shiny, pores become enlarged, and the ground is prepared for problems such as acne.

A few simple observations are enough to determine if your skin is oily: if you notice a distinct shine on your forehead, nose, and chin (T-zone) when you wake up in the morning, if your makeup slides off during the day, if your pores are large enough to be seen with the naked eye, and if your skin often tends to develop blackheads or pimples, you most likely have an oily skin type. Press a clean tissue onto your T-zone 2-3 hours after washing your face; if there is an oil stain on the tissue, this is a strong indicator.

There are many reasons for oily skin, including genetics, hormonal changes (puberty, menstrual cycle, stress), climate conditions, and the use of incorrect products. The important thing is to see oily skin not as a problem, but as a skin type that can be balanced with the right care. With the right active ingredients and a consistent skincare routine, it is possible to control sebum production, cleanse pores, and keep the skin matte.

Which Skincare Products Should Be Used for Oily Skin Type?

In oily skin care, product selection is shaped according to the needs of the skin and the targeted result. As a general rule, light, water-based, non-pore-clogging (non-comedogenic), and oil-free formulas should be preferred. Skincare products for oily skin are evaluated in the following categories:

Cleansers: In gel or foam form, cleansers containing actives such as salicylic acid that penetrate the pores remove excess sebum and impurities while protecting the skin's moisture barrier.
Toners: Sebum-balancing and pore-tightening toners provide the skin's pH balance after cleansing and increase the absorption of subsequent care steps.
Serums: Serums containing actives such as niacinamide, salicylic acid, AHA/BHA, and vitamin C offer solutions in a wide range from sebum control to pore tightening, and from blemish reduction to anti-aging care.
Peelings: Weekly exfoliation removes dead cells, preventing pores from clogging and accelerating skin renewal.
Sunscreen: Light, mattifying, or serum-form sunscreens provide protection without adding weight to oily skin.

Serums for Oily Skin

Serum is the most strategic step in oily skin care; it delivers high-concentration active ingredients directly to the skin. The NewLab.'s serums suitable for oily skin are formulated according to different needs:

Sebum Control and Pore Tightening

Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Anti-Acne Pore Tightening Face Serum is a skincare product that responds to the most basic needs of oily skin. Niacinamide (vitamin B3) regulates sebum production while reducing the appearance of pores, while Zinc PCA keeps acne-causing bacteria under control with its antimicrobial effect. It is suitable for daily use and does not sensitize the skin to the sun.

Acne Scars and Skin Renewal

For post-acne scars and uneven skin texture, the Anti-Acne Smoothing Face Serum is a powerful choice. The mandelic acid, succinic acid, and PHA complex in its formula gently renew the skin while purifying the pores. Thanks to the large molecular structure of mandelic acid, the risk of irritation is low even in sensitive skin.

Peeling Effect Serums

AHA BHA Peeling Face Serum, used twice a week, removes dead cells and prevents pores from clogging. While AHA renews the top layer of the skin, BHA (salicylic acid) penetrates into the pores with its oil-soluble structure. Regular exfoliation in oily and acne-prone skin increases both texture smoothness and the absorption of other care products.

Brightening and Anti-Blemish Serums

Post-acne hyperpigmentation is common in oily skin. Brightening Face Serum for Blemished Skin (Niacinamide 5% + Alpha Arbutin 2%) lightens the appearance of spots by regulating melanin production. Alpha arbutin can be safely used on all skin types as a gentle alternative to hydroquinone. Additionally, the Vitamin C Serum provides both brightening and protection against environmental damage with its antioxidant effect.

Anti-Aging Serums

One advantage of the oily skin type is that it shows wrinkles later compared to dry skin. However, this does not mean neglecting anti-aging care. Anti-Aging Face Serum Retinol 0.2% + Squalane 20% accelerates cell renewal with retinol, while moisturizing the skin without making it oily with squalane. The Advanced Anti-Aging Skincare Serum (Multi Peptide + Copper Peptide 1%) targets fine lines with powerful peptides such as Matrixyl 3000, Argireline, and copper peptide.

Cleansers for Oily Skin

Cleansing is the most critical step of oily skin care. The right cleanser should protect the skin's natural moisture barrier while removing excess sebum and dirt accumulated in the pores. Very harsh cleansers dry out the skin, causing it to produce even more oil, which in turn increases oiliness.

Anti-Acne & Sebum Control Face Cleanser deeply cleanses the skin, purifies blackheads, and maintains the sebum balance with its gel formula containing salicylic acid and niacinamide. It is suitable for morning and evening use.

Barrier Strengthening B12 Cleansing Foam is ideal especially for oily skin with a sensitive skin barrier. It provides gentle cleansing while repairing the barrier weakened by excessive cleaning or the use of wrong products.

Practical tip: Do not wash your face more than twice a day. Excessive cleaning can trigger the skin's defense mechanism and increase sebum production. Use lukewarm water; very hot water dries and irritates the skin.

Toners for Oily Skin

Toner removes residues remaining on the skin after the cleanser, restores the pH balance, and increases the absorption of skincare products in subsequent steps. For oily skin, toner is a particularly important step for sebum control and pore tightening.

Anti-Acne & Sebum Control Purifying Toner deeply cleanses pores and regulates sebum balance with its salicylic acid, niacinamide, and Zinc PCA content. It is suitable for morning-evening use, especially on acne-prone oily skin.

Revitalizing & Skin Tone Equalizing Toner (Rose Hydrosol, Glycolic Acid 5%, AHA+BHA) is more suitable for oily skin experiencing uneven skin tone and dullness. The combination of glycolic acid and AHA+BHA provides gentle exfoliation, while rose hydrosol soothes the skin. Since this toner contains AHA, it should be included in the evening routine and sunscreen should be used in the morning.

Peeling for Oily Skin

In oily skin, dead cell accumulation and sebum lead to clogged pores and coarseness of skin texture. Regular peeling breaks this cycle, accelerates skin renewal, and increases the effectiveness of other care products.

Purifying and Renewing Enzyme Powder Peeling is a combination physical+chemical peeling containing mandelic acid, succinic acid, tartaric acid, and papain enzyme. Its powder formula is activated with water; it provides both mechanical purification and enzymatic exfoliation. It is recommended to use it 1-2 times a week. It makes a significant difference in regular use, especially for oily skin experiencing blackhead and pore problems.

Sunscreens for Oily Skin

Sun protection is essential for every skin type, but choosing the right formula is extra important for oily skin. Heavy, greasy sunscreens clog pores and increase shine. Light, mattifying, or serum-form sunscreens are ideal for oily skin.

Sunscreen SPF50 Sun Drops Serum offers broad-spectrum protection without adding weight to oily skin with its serum consistency. It is suitable for daily use with its non-whitening and water-resistant formula.

Anti-Acne and Anti-Blemish Sunscreen (SPF 50) provides both protection and spot prevention with its alpha arbutin and niacinamide content. It is especially preferred for acne-prone oily skin.

Brightening and Skin Tone Equalizing Sunscreen (SPF 50+) soothes the skin with calamine and green tea extract while evening out the skin tone. It is a suitable option for oily skin experiencing color unevenness.

Eye Care Products for Oily Skin

The eye contour is the thinnest area of the skin and requires special care regardless of skin type. Light formulas should be preferred for dark circles, puffiness, and early fine lines under the eyes in oily skin.

Brightening Eye Contour Serum (Caffeine 5% + Green Tea) revitalizes under-eye circulation with caffeine, reducing the appearance of puffiness and dark circles. Green tea extract provides antioxidant support. Brightening and Anti-Aging Eye Cream offers more comprehensive care that targets fine lines and brightens the eye contour.

Spot Treatment for Oily Skin

A spot treatment approach for sudden pimples makes a big difference in oily skin. Anti-Acne Lotion is applied directly onto the pimple with its formula containing calamine, salicylic acid, and tea tree oil. Thanks to its rapidly drying structure, it can show an effect even with a single night's use. It is suitable for use on the whole body.

Oily Skin Care Routine: Morning and Evening

An effective care routine for oily skin starts with applying the right products in the right order. Below are suggestions for a morning and evening routine created with The NewLab. products:

Morning Routine

1. Cleansing → Wash your face with Anti-Acne & Sebum Control Face Cleanser.
2. Toner → Balance the skin with Anti-Acne & Sebum Control Purifying Toner.
3. Serum → Apply Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum or Vitamin C Serum.
4. Eye care → Revitalize under-eye area with Caffeine Eye Contour Serum.
5. Sunscreen → Protect with SPF50 Sun Drops Serum or Anti-Acne and Anti-Blemish Sunscreen.

Evening Routine

1. Cleansing → If you wear makeup, double cleansing with an oil-based cleanser followed by a gel cleanser.
2. Toner → According to need, sebum control toner or AHA+BHA Toner (2-3 evenings a week).
3. Serum → In the evenings, Retinol Serum or Alpha Arbutin + Niacinamide Serum.
4. Eye care → Anti-Aging Eye Cream.
5. Spot treatment → If there is an active pimple, spot treatment with Anti-Acne Lotion.

Weekly Additional Care

Exfoliate 1-2 times a week with Enzyme Powder Peeling or AHA BHA Peeling Serum. Peeling and retinol should not be used on the same night.

What is the Difference Between Oily Skin and Combination Skin?

These two skin types are often confused. In oily skin, sebum production is high across the entire face—including the forehead, nose, cheeks, and chin—and a general shine is visible. In combination skin, however, oiliness is concentrated only in the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin), while the cheeks remain normal or dry.

This difference directly affects product selection. While sebum control-focused skincare products can be applied to the entire face for oily skin, regional care (mattifying for the T-zone, moisturizing for the cheeks) may be more effective for combination skin. If you are unsure of your skin type, check your cheeks 3-4 hours after washing your face: if they are oily, it is more likely you have oily skin; if they are normal, you likely have combination skin.

Common Mistakes with Oily Skin

One of the most common mistakes in oily skin care is trying to stop oiliness by drying out the skin. Alcohol-based harsh toners, washing 3-4 times a day, or skipping moisturizer triggers the skin's defense mechanism, causing it to produce more sebum.

Not using a moisturizer: Oily skin also needs moisture. Oiliness and moisture are different concepts; your skin may be oily but also dehydrated. Water-based, light moisturizers or serums containing hyaluronic acid meet the moisture need.

Skipping sunscreen: Neglecting sun protection with the thought that "sunscreen makes my skin oily" leads to both the darkening of acne scars and premature aging. Sunscreens in serum or gel form eliminate this problem.

Excessive exfoliation: Peeling is beneficial, but doing it every day weakens the skin barrier and causes redness and sensitivity. 1-2 times a week is sufficient.

Thinking that avoiding oily foods is enough: Diet affects general skin health, but not eating oily foods alone does not reduce sebum production. The right skincare products and nutrition should be addressed together.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does oily skin shine?

The shine on oily skin is caused by the sebaceous glands producing excessive sebum. Sebum spreads across the skin's surface, creating a shiny, oily appearance. Genetic factors, hormonal changes, hot weather, and stress can increase sebum production. Skincare products containing niacinamide and zinc help to control this shine by balancing sebum production.

Should oily skin use moisturizer?

Yes, absolutely. Oiliness and lack of moisture are different things; oily skin can also be dehydrated. Not using a moisturizer can cause the skin to produce more oil. Water-based, light, and oil-free formulas should be preferred. Serums containing hyaluronic acid also provide suitable hydration for oily skin.

Which active ingredients are effective on oily skin?

Among the most effective actives for oily skin are niacinamide (sebum control, pore tightening), salicylic acid/BHA (pore cleansing, acne prevention), AHAs (skin renewal, tone evening), retinol (cell regeneration), and zinc (sebum regulation, antibacterial effect).

Can pores be shrunk on oily skin?

Pore size is largely genetic, and it is not possible to shrink them permanently. However, it is possible to make pores appear smaller. Regular cleansing, toners containing BHA, and niacinamide serums help keep pores clean and tight. When sebum and dirt buildup in the pores are cleared, the appearance of pores is significantly reduced.

Which is the best sunscreen for oily skin?

For oily skin, mattifying, lightweight, and non-comedogenic sunscreens are ideal. Serum-formula sunscreens provide protection without weighing down the skin. SPF 50 and broad-spectrum protection should be preferred. Sunscreens containing additional actives like niacinamide or alpha arbutin offer care alongside protection.

Can retinol be used on oily skin?

Yes, retinol is a very suitable active for oily skin. It accelerates cell renewal, cleanses pores, and reduces acne formation. However, it is important to start with a low concentration (e.g., 0.2%) and let the skin adjust. Retinol should be used in the evening, and sunscreen must be applied in the morning. It should not be used on the same evening as peeling products.

Does oily skin get oilier in summer or winter?

Sebum production increases in hot and humid weather, which is why oily skin shines more during the summer months. However, in winter, dry air in indoor environments can dehydrate the skin, and the skin may respond by producing more oil. It is important to adapt your care routine and the skincare products you use according to the season.

How to make makeup long-lasting on oily skin?

Applying a mattifying primer or a sebum-control serum before makeup improves adhesion. Opt for oil-free, water-based foundations and setting powder. You can control shine throughout the day by using blotting papers without ruining your makeup.

Does oily skin change as you age?

Yes, sebum production naturally decreases with age. In your 30s and 40s, oily skin can transition into a combination or normal skin type. Therefore, it is important to review your skincare routine at regular intervals and adapt it to your skin's current needs.

Are oily skin and acne the same thing?

No. Oily skin is a skin type; acne is a skin problem. Not every oily skin type has acne, but oily skin increases the risk of acne because excess sebum can clog pores. Similarly, acne can also occur on dry or sensitive skin. With the right skincare products and a consistent routine, the risk of acne on oily skin can be significantly reduced.

The NewLab. Skincare Products for Oily Skin

Oily skin is a skin type that can be balanced with the right actives and a consistent care routine. The skincare products developed by The NewLab. for oily skin — from salicylic acid-based cleansers to niacinamide serums, and from lightweight sunscreens to spot treatment lotions — target sebum control, pore care, and skin balance. You can examine our collection above to discover products suitable for your skin.