Skincare Products for Oily Skin Dermatologists and Beauty Editors Swear By

Managing oily skin is a balancing act. You want to stay hydrated, but not greasy. You want skin that looks naturally refreshed—not overly slick or shiny. And with so many products claiming to mattify, purify, or reset your skin, it’s tough to know what’s actually worth it. That’s why we turned to the real experts: dermatologists and beauty editors.

 Below are 10 products across essential skincare categories that they genuinely recommend for keeping oily skin happy, clear, and shine-free.

1. CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser

This cleanser is a go-to for many dermatologists, including Dr. Sam Park, who recommends it for its gentle, non-stripping formula. Developed with dermatologists, it’s packed with ceramides and niacinamide to cleanse without disrupting your skin’s barrier. It removes excess oil and grime without leaving your face tight or dry.

Why it works: Balances oil while supporting the skin barrier.

Key ingredients: Ceramides, Niacinamide.

2. Exfoliant: Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid

This well-known exfoliant is trusted by dermatologists like Dr. Debra Jaliman, MD, for its ability to gently clear pores and manage breakouts. It uses salicylic acid to exfoliate inside the pore lining—perfect for keeping oily skin smooth and less congested.

Why it works: Clears out oil and congestion without irritation.

Key ingredients: Salicylic Acid, Green Tea Extract.

3. Serum: The Ordinary Niacinamide + Zinc

According to Dr. Adeline Kikam, this serum is effective for reducing oiliness and improving the appearance of enlarged pores. It’s a budget-friendly, no-nonsense product that works hard without unnecessary fillers.

Why it works: Targets oiliness and enlarged pores while calming skin.

Key ingredients: Niacinamide, Zinc.

4. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Moisturizer

Formulated with oily and acne-prone skin in mind, this lightweight moisturizer comes from a line frequently recommended by dermatologists. It hydrates without adding shine and also helps refine skin texture over time. It’s especially helpful during summer months or in humid climates, when oily skin tends to act up.

Why it works: Controls oil while providing light hydration.

Key ingredients: Sebulyse (oil-controlling compound), Lipo-Hydroxy Acid.

5. Tatcha The Water Cream

Dr. Marisa Garshick recommends this oil-free, gel-based moisturizer for those with oily and combination skin. It offers hydration without heaviness and gives your skin a smooth, satin finish. It also has a luxurious texture that makes your routine feel a bit more special.

Why it works: Hydrates and refines pores without clogging.

Key ingredients: Japanese Wild Rose, Leopard Lily, Hadasei-3 complex.

6. EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46

A top pick among dermatologists, this oil-free sunscreen is praised for its lightweight texture and calming ingredients. It’s especially good for acne-prone skin types, thanks to its fragrance-free, non-comedogenic formula. It's one of the few SPFs that feels like a skincare step, not a sticky afterthought.

Why it works: Protects skin from UV rays without triggering breakouts.

Key ingredients: Zinc Oxide, Niacinamide.

7. Sunscreen: SkinCeuticals Matte UV Defense SPF 50

This matte-finish sunscreen comes highly recommended by Dr. Marisa Garshick for those with oily skin. It absorbs excess oil throughout the day while providing strong broad-spectrum protection. It doubles as a great primer under makeup and keeps midday shine in check.

Why it works: Controls shine and offers a smooth makeup base.

Key ingredients: Titanium Dioxide, Silica, Aerated Silica Technology.

8. Eucerin Oil Control Tinted SPF 50+

Formulated for oily and acne-prone skin, this sunscreen has a dry-touch finish and broad-spectrum protection. Dr. Garshick cites its ability to absorb oil while offering light coverage. It’s great for minimal makeup days or anyone who wants to even out skin tone while staying protected.

Why it works: Offers both shine control and sun protection, with a subtle tint for added coverage.

Key ingredients: L-Carnitine, Pigment Absorbers.

9. Glo Skin Beauty Oil-Free SPF 40+

This mineral sunscreen is a favorite among dermatologists for its non-comedogenic, breathable texture. It works well under makeup and doesn’t leave a white cast. Plus, the added antioxidants offer extra protection against environmental stressors.

Why it works: Lightweight, breathable protection without pore-clogging.

Key ingredients: Mineral-based zinc for sun protection, antioxidant-rich green tea, and soothing vitamin E.

10. Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream

Though slightly richer than other options here, this cream is still recommended for oily skin thanks to its peptide blend and water-based texture. Dermatologist-tested and beauty editor approved, it’s great for those looking to improve skin firmness and bounce without heavy moisturizers.

Why it works: Firms and hydrates without heaviness.

Key ingredients: Signal Peptides, Pygmy Waterlily Extract.

How to Build a Balanced Routine for Oily Skin

The key to controlling oily skin isn’t stripping it dry—it’s about balance. Here’s how you can layer these expert-approved oil control products into a solid routine:

Morning:

• Cleanse with CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser to remove overnight oil.
• Apply The Ordinary Niacinamide + Zinc serum to control sebum and calm redness.
• Apply a lightweight moisturizer like Tatcha’s Water Cream or Effaclar Mat from La Roche-Posay.
• Finish with EltaMD UV Clear or Glo Skin Beauty SPF to protect without greasiness.

Evening:

• Cleanse again in the evening—double cleansing is a great option if you’ve worn makeup or sunscreen all day.
• Use Paula’s Choice BHA Exfoliant 2–3 times per week after cleansing.
• Follow with a lightweight moisturizer like Protini or Effaclar Mat to lock in hydration.

Optional add-ons:

• Use a clay mask weekly to absorb oil and clear out pores.
• Keep blotting papers on hand to manage shine throughout the day without disrupting your makeup.
• For occasional breakouts, try a targeted spot treatment with salicylic acid or sulfur.

With the right skincare for oily skin, you don’t have to settle for a shiny T-zone or midday meltdowns. These dermatologist-approved best products for oily skin will help you stay balanced, clear, and confidently matte (or softly glowy—your choice). 

Whether you’re building your first oily skin routine or fine-tuning what already works, these expert-backed essentials are a great place to start.