Struggling with oily skin? You’re not alone. Managing shine and breakouts can feel like a full-time job, especially when pricey products don’t live up to the hype. Good news?
You don’t need a luxury serum to have skin that glows for the right reasons. In this guide, we’re sharing five affordable, effective skincare picks that oily-skinned users swear by—plus some extra tips that might just change your routine for good.
1. CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser
Why it’s a favorite: CeraVe has built a cult following for a reason—its Foaming Facial Cleanser is gentle yet effective for oily and acne-prone skin. It removes excess oil, dirt, and makeup without over-drying.
Key Ingredients:
- Niacinamide (calms the skin)
- Ceramides (restore the skin barrier)
- Hyaluronic acid (locks in moisture)
Bonus: Recommended by dermatologists across the US and Canada.
Cleanse your way to clarity—this one is a no-brainer.
2. The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
Why it’s a favorite: Budget serums can be hit or miss, but this one hits the mark. It controls sebum production and visibly reduces blemishes over time.
Key Ingredients:
- Niacinamide (oil-regulating, brightening)
- Zinc PCA (anti-inflammatory, antibacterial)
Pro Tip: Layer after toner and before moisturizer. Avoid combining with vitamin C for max results.
One drop at a time, say goodbye to grease.
3. COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion (with Birch Sap)
Why it’s a favorite: Oily skin still needs hydration. This Korean beauty staple delivers just that without clogging pores or leaving a sticky residue.
Key Ingredients:
- Birch sap (soothes, hydrates)
- Panthenol (moisture retention)
- Tea tree extract (acne-fighting)
Fun Fact: Loved by Reddit’s Asian Beauty community for its lightweight texture and calming effect.
Hydration doesn’t have to equal oil overload—trust us on this one.
4. Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Why it’s a favorite: No more mystery bumps. This exfoliant unclogs pores and smooths skin without irritating sensitive complexions.
Key Ingredients:
- Salicylic acid (BHA): penetrates deep into pores
- Green tea: antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
How to Use:
- Apply with a cotton pad after cleansing at night
- Start with 2-3 times per week
Heads up: Always follow with sunscreen the next day.
It’s like a mini facial in a bottle.
5. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel
Why it’s a favorite: This drugstore moisturizer is a holy grail for oily skin—it hydrates without heaviness, thanks to its gel-like consistency.
Key Ingredients:
- Hyaluronic acid (deep hydration)
- Glycerin (skin-replenishing)
- Dimethicone (smooths without clogging)
Best For: Daily use under makeup or as a nighttime hydrator. Oil-free and non-comedogenic.
Because no one wants a moisturizer that feels like sunscreen.
Infographic: Oily Skin Routine Made Easy
Morning Routine:
- Cleanser (e.g., CeraVe)
- Niacinamide Serum (The Ordinary)
- Lightweight Moisturizer (Hydro Boost)
- Sunscreen
Evening Routine:
- Cleanser
- BHA Exfoliant (2-3x/week)
- Birch Sap Lotion
- Spot Treatment (if needed)
Want more oily skin insights?
Check out our Ultimate Guide to Skincare for Oily Skin to dive deeper into product layering, myths, and long-term strategies.
Hi! I’m Katia Luján, an SEO and Content Marketing expert with over 10 years of experience helping websites grow organically and get approved by Google AdSense.
I’ve worked in Google’s Trust & Safety team for AdSense and have helped more than 100 websites comply with monetization policies. Currently, I’m the strategist behind Buzzlix—creating SEO-optimized, high-quality content on beauty, skincare, and self-care.
I’m passionate about empowering others with actionable, sustainable, and accessible beauty content.
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