Oily Skin SOS: Effective K-beauty Skincare Solutions

If you've been dealing with oily skin, don't worry, we've got your back! Oily skin can be a bit of a challenge, but with the right knowledge and friendly guidance, you can manage it like a pro. From double cleansing to finding the right moisturiser and tackling shine, we've got you covered. Together, we'll navigate the oily skin journey with a friendly approach and unlock the secrets of effective K-beauty skincare solutions.

What is Oily Skin?

Oily skin is a skin type characterised by excessive sebum production. Sebum is a natural oil produced by the sebaceous glands in the skin. While sebum is essential for maintaining skin health and hydration, an overproduction of sebum can result in oily skin. To find out if you have oily skin, take a clean tissue or blotting paper and gently press it against different areas of your face, especially the T-zone. If you notice significant oil transfer onto the tissue, it suggests that you have oily skin.

Features of Oily Skin

If you observe several of these characteristics, it is likely that you have oily skin.

• Shine

Oily skin tends to have a noticeable shine or greasy appearance, especially on the forehead, nose (T-zone), and chin. If your skin looks consistently shiny, even shortly after washing your face, it may indicate excess oil production.

• Enlarged Pores

Oily skin is often associated with larger and more visible pores. Take a close look at your skin, particularly in the T-zone area, and check if your pores appear more prominent or easily clogged.

• Makeup Durability

If you find that your makeup tends to slide off or doesn't last long on your face, it could be due to the excess oil on your skin's surface. Oily skin can affect longevity and adherence to makeup products.

• Skin Texture

Oily skin often has a slightly thicker and more coarse texture compared to other skin types. You may notice a rough or uneven feel when running your fingers along your skin.

How to Take Care of Oily Skin 

Taking care of oily skin involves a consistent skincare routine that aims to balance oil production, control shine, and maintain a healthy complexion. Here are some tips to help you care for your oily skin:

1. Always Double Cleansing

Contrary to what it may seem, using an oil-based cleanser on oily skin can be highly effective. Oil attracts oil, so an oil-based cleanser helps dissolve and lift excess sebum, dirt, and oil-based impurities from the skin. This step helps thoroughly cleanse the pores, preventing congestion and breakouts. Together with a water-based cleanser, this cleansing method helps maintain a healthier balance by removing excess oil and impurities while keeping the skin's natural moisture intact - resulting in regulating sebum production and minimising the greasy appearance associated with oily skin. 

Try: HARUHARU WONDER Black Rice Moisture Deep Cleansing Oil (150ml) - £18.50

Our favourite 95% natural deep cleansing oil, with effective ingredients that cleanse without stripping. Hydrate, nourish, and strengthen your skin with Rice Bran Oil, Olive Fruit Oil, and Jojoba Seed Oil, while fermented black rice provides antioxidants and anti-ageing benefits.

Try: BEAUTY OF JOSEON Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser (100ml) - £12.90

The gentle water cleanser from the most hyped-up Korean brand, Beauty of Joseon. Formulated with 24% Green Plum Water, it brightens, nourishes, and protects against free radicals while calming irritations and controlling sebum for clearer, healthier skin.

2. Exfoliate Regularly

Exfoliation helps to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, which can be especially beneficial for oily skin. Use a gentle exfoliating scrub or a chemical exfoliant (such as salicylic acid) 2-3 times a week to keep your skin smooth and minimise the appearance of enlarged pores. Be careful not to use harsh scrubs or abrasive cleansing brushes on your face, as they can irritate the skin and stimulate more oil production.

Try: COSRX One Step Original Clear Pad (70 Pads) - £24.00

Award-winning acne-fighting pads pre-soaked with Willow Bark Water and Betaine Salicylate. Gently exfoliate, dissolve excess sebum, and unclog pores for clearer, brighter skin.

3. Avoid Over-Washing

Although cleansing is important, excessive washing can strip away too much oil from your skin, leading to rebound oil production. Stick to twice-daily cleansing and avoid scrubbing or using harsh cleansing brushes, as they can irritate the skin and stimulate more oil production.

4. Use Products with Sebum Controlling Ingredients

When it comes to controlling sebum production and managing oily skin, several skincare ingredients have shown effectiveness. Check out the following key ingredients to look for in products targeted towards controlling sebum.

• Salicylic Acid
• Niacinamide
• Tea Tree Oil
• Clay-based Ingredient
• Heartleaf

Try: ABIB Heartleaf Spot Pad Calming Touch (80 Pads) - £22.00

The No.1 Korean toner pad infused with 40,000 ppm Heartleaf Extract. Soothe redness, improve texture, and hydrate tired skin with a refreshing formula. Dual-sided for exfoliation and nourishment, it's a multifunctional star!

5. Moisturise Appropriately

Even oily skin needs hydration, so don't skip moisturiser. Choose lightweight, oil-free, and gel-based moisturisers that provide hydration without adding excessive oiliness. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which helps to retain moisture in the skin without clogging pores.

Try: ROUND LAB Mugwort Calming Cream (80ml) - £26.00

The lightweight, soothing gel cream that deeply hydrates and calms inflamed skin. Infused with Mugwort Leaf Extract and Madecassoside, it strengthens the skin barrier, evens tone, and leaves a dewy, glowing finish for that glass-skin look. Perfect for acne-prone and sensitive skin.

6. Sun Protection

Protecting your skin from the sun is crucial, even if you have oily skin. Choose a lightweight, oil-free sunscreen with a broad spectrum of SPF 30 or higher. Look for sunscreen specifically formulated for the face and consider a matte or non-greasy finish.

Try: BEAUTY OF JOSEON Matte Sun Stick: Mugwort+Camelia SPF 50+ PA++++(18g) - £19.95

The viral sun stick with soothing Mugwort and Green Tea Extract for nourished skin. Silica controls oils, giving a matte finish, even over makeup. Non-greasy, no white cast, fragrance-free - the perfect match for oily skin type!