Skincare Advice for Managing Oily, Sensitive, and Acne-Prone Skin: 13 Ways to Help Your Skin

As a South Asian American with sensitive, acne-prone, and greasy skin, I understand the challenges that come with managing these skin types. However, through trial and error, I’ve learned valuable tips and tricks that have helped me maintain healthy and clear skin. After experimenting with a ton of products, having an over-complicated routine, and researching, I finally figured it out the best skincare advice. So, taking the knowledge I have learned from dermatologists, researchers, articles, and more, here is some skincare advice on how to best manage what feels like unmanageable skin.

Skincare Consistency is Key

The first tip to managing sensitive, acne-prone, and oily skin is consistency. It is essential to have a morning and night routine that you follow both regularly and religiously. It does not matter what products you use or the order you use them unless you stay consistent with them. You may notice some changes relatively quickly, but beating acne at its root takes time. This routine should include a gentle cleanser, a serum, sunscreen, and a moisturizer at its basic, but products can be added based on other skin concerns such as rosacea or hyperpigmentation.

Be Cognizant of the Skincare Ingredients You Are Using

The second tip to managing sensitive, acne-prone, and oily skin is to be aware of the ingredients you are using. Some ingredients can irritate and dry out your skin, causing more oil production and breakouts. It is important to avoid products that contain alcohol, fragrances, and harsh chemicals.

Although fragrance affects everyone differently, I think it is better just to avoid it where possible. Instead, look for products that contain ingredients such as salicylic acid, and niacinamide. These ingredients have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce acne and control oil production.

Below is a list of ingredients that are great for acne-prone and oily skin and the benefits of each. Note that you can find products with a lot of these ingredients in a single serum or moisturizer, which can help reduce the steps in a skincare routine while getting all the benefits.

Ingredient Recommendations

Salicylic Acid: this is the only acid that is both water and oil soluble meaning it can really get into your pores and clean it all out to prevent acne.

Niacinamide: this is a great ingredient to help fight redness and manage oil production

Retinols: retinol is an umbrella term for Vitamin A as an ingredient. In all its forms, vitamin A helps align all your skin cells’ cycles meaning you get fewer clogged pores, less acne, and fewer wrinkles.

Azelaic Acid: this is a great ingredient for evening out the skin tone and fighting hyperpigmentation while also reducing redness. This is a great ingredient to include if you have a deeper skin tone to prevent post-acne marks

Mandelic Acid: this also helps gently exfoliate the skin and remove dead skin cells while fighting hyperpigmentation. This is great to include if you also want an acid that you can use daily.

Glycolic Acid: this acid is the smallest of the acid particles meaning it can go into the deeper layers of your skin and clean out the pores. If you have deeper skin tones do not go above 5% or then look for other AHAs such as lactic acid that are typically less irritating.

Centella Asiatica: this is simply a calming ingredient that can help when you have damaged your skin barrier or feel extra red. Finding this in your moisturizer is a great way to add the ingredient without the need for another skincare step.

Listen to Your Acne-Prone Skin

The third tip to managing sensitive, acne-prone, and oily skin is to listen to your skin. Pay attention to how your skin reacts to different products. Your skin will often give you clues as to what it needs. If your skin feels tight and dry, it may be a sign that you need to add more moisture to your routine so you may need to skip the retinol or exfoliation of a day. If you notice an increase in breakouts after using a new product, it may be a sign that the product is not suitable for your skin. 

If you are getting tiny breakouts even with the use of retinol or acids, it may be that you are overusing them, making your skin red and irritated, and causing your skin barrier to be compromised. This means taking a step back and using healing ingredients until your skin feels normal again. Your skin will guide you toward the products and routines that work best for you.

Have a Solid Skincare Routine YOU Can Stick To

Since many of the acne-helping ingredients can also be a bit harsh on your skin, it is important to take breaks in between. Morning and night routines will and should look different. Use your acne-fighting ingredients in the evenings as they tend to be harsher and react to sunlight while using your other skin-concern products in the morning.

For me, this means using Vitamin C to fight hyperpigmentation and improve the efficiency of my sunscreen. The best way to keep your skin happy, less oily, and acne free, is to set up a skin cycling routine. While my morning routine stays the same each morning since I am typically in a rush, it is important for me to switch up my evening routine. Whatever you choose to do, you are the one that needs to keep up with it, so make sure it is easy to remember and do regardless of how tired or unmotivated you might be.

Here is an example of a night routine that works well for me and countless others:

Day 1: Toner and Moisturizer

Day 2: only moisturizer OR hydrating product + moisturizer

Day 3: retinol + moisturizer

Day 4: only moisturizer OR hydrating product + moisturizer

This keeps getting cycled through to allow your skin to maintain its hydrated properties while still fighting acne.

Wash Your Face Correctly

It is important to note that you should not over-wash your face as this can strip your skin of its natural oils and cause more oil production, but washing your face twice a day, morning and night, is a must. Use lukewarm water, as hot water can strip away essential oils, leading to dryness and increased oil production.

Opt for a gentle cleanser that effectively removes dirt and oil without over-drying. Massage the cleanser into your skin using gentle, circular motions, then rinse thoroughly. Avoid scrubbing or using harsh exfoliators, as they can irritate the skin and worsen acne. If you feel really greasy, you can use a slightly harsher cleanser once a day, I suggest at night. You need to be washing your face for 45-60 seconds, and working the cleanser into your pores (gently) to remove oil and dirt. If you do not, then there is no point in using any of your serums or moisturizers that come after it so please just wash your face properly.

Double Cleanse with an Oil Cleanser

In the world of skincare, the double cleanse has emerged as a game-changer for achieving truly clean and radiant skin. The first step in this cleansing duo involves using an oil cleanser to remove stubborn sunscreen and makeup.

While it may seem counterintuitive to cleanse with oil, this method has gained popularity for its remarkable ability to dissolve impurities and leave the skin refreshed and nourished. Oil cleansers effortlessly break down sunscreen’s water-resistant barrier, removing it without leaving any residue behind. They also excel at dissolving even the most stubborn makeup, revealing a clean canvas for your subsequent cleanser.

Avoid Touching Your Face with Hands and Hair

Touching your face can transfer bacteria and oil from your hands, aggravating acne and leading to breakouts. Make a conscious effort to keep your hands away from your face as much as possible. On that note, make sure you wash your hands before you start your skincare routine.

Oil and product buildup on your hair can transfer to your face, exacerbating oiliness and breakouts. Wash your hair regularly and avoid allowing it to rest on your face. Consider tying your hair back or using a headband to keep it away from your skin.

Use Oil-Free and Non-Comedogenic Products

When choosing makeup products, opt for oil-free and non-comedogenic formulas. These products are less likely to clog your pores and contribute to acne breakouts. Look for labels that specifically mention “non-comedogenic” or “oil-free.” Read the ingredients if you are unsure.

Clean Your Pillowcase and Phone Regularly

Your pillowcase can accumulate bacteria, oil, and dirt over time. Sleeping on a dirty pillowcase can lead to breakouts and skin irritation. Aim to change your pillowcase at least once a week to minimize the transfer of these substances to your face.

Clean your phone as well, especially if you are used to taking phone calls to your ear. We keep our phones on practically any surface we find so it is important to not transfer those germs and dirt onto our faces.

Stay Hydrated and Maintain a Healthy Diet

Drinking an adequate amount of water helps maintain overall skin health and keeps your skin hydrated from within. Additionally, a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins provides essential nutrients that support skin health. Avoid excessive consumption of sugary and processed foods, as they can contribute to inflammation and acne flare-ups.

Nourishing your body from the inside out can help make sure all the time and effort you are putting in has a lasting impact.

Manage Stress Levels

Stress can trigger hormonal imbalances, leading to increased oil production and breakouts. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercising, practicing mindfulness or meditation, and engaging in activities you enjoy. Taking care of your mental well-being can positively impact your skin.

If You Do DIY Skincare, Do them Properly

I love my turmeric and yogurt face masks to beat acne and hyperpigmentation since the ingredients are known to be anti-inflammatory and gently exfoliating but know what you are putting on your skin. Avoid ingredients such as lemon and baking soda which are too acidic for the skin and can lead to burning. Opt for more hydrating DIY options such as ones that use honey or oils.

Routine Examples

Product Recommendations

These are some recommendations at a range of price points. Take note of the fluid ounces vary greatly which weighs into their value for money. All of them are great options, so pick which suits your skin type and budget the best!

Cleansers:

Toners:

Moisturizers:

Sunscreens:

Retinols:

With love,
Aditi <3
Aditi Rani – Figuring Out Life in Your Twenties

*Disclaimer: This is not professional advice. Some links are affiliate. By clicking and/or purchasing, I may receive a commission. It does not alter the price or change your buyer experience.