A skin type characterized by excessive sebum production (hyperseborrhea). Constant shine, especially in the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin); visible or enlarged pores (nose, cheeks, chin); thickened texture with a noticeable grain; feels oily to the touch; prone to comedones (blackheads, whiteheads); frequent breakouts; makeup that wears off quickly, an often oily scalp, possible hyperseborrhea on the back, chest, and shoulders, and an increased risk of acne and seborrheic dermatitis. Advantage: skin is better protected against aging, with less pronounced fine lines as one ages. Identifying this profile allows for tailored skincare without excessive stripping.

Which active ingredients should you prioritize?

Niacinamide B3 (regulates sebum, soothes, well-tolerated, improves the appearance of pores), salicylic acid BHA (lipophilic exfoliant, unclogs pores), zinc gluconate or PCA (sebum regulator), azelaic acid (anti-inflammatory, considered safe even during pregnancy according to expert opinion), gentle AHA exfoliants (photosensitizing), green or white clay masks, activated charcoal, white willow extract (natural salicylic acid), toning witch hazel extract, green tea (sebum-regulating polyphenols), cosmetic retinol at night (photosensitizing; consult a healthcare professional regarding pregnancy/breastfeeding), bakuchiol (plant-based alternative), lightweight non-comedogenic moisturizers (hyaluronic acid, glycerin, plant-based squalane), ultra-gentle PHAs.

What sun protection should you use?

Benefits: prevention of photoaging, protection against UV-induced worsening of enlarged pores and seborrhea, prevention of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from acne marks, reduction of the post-tanning rebound effect, preservation of the skin barrier, compatibility with photosensitizing active ingredients. Criteria: Broad-spectrum SPF 30–50+, fluid gel or light emulsion texture, mattifying, non-comedogenic, and oil-free formulation, mineral filters (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide)—often better tolerated—and stable modern organic filters; tinted, mattifying sun protection; synergistic antioxidants. Application: 2 mg/cm² (one teaspoon for the face), 15–20 minutes before sun exposure, reapply every 2 hours, including neck and ears; use daily in both winter and summer; avoid tanning beds.

What skincare mistakes should you avoid?

Over-cleansing (paradoxical rebound effect), excessive stripping (alkaline soaps, strong alcohols), skipping moisturization under the pretext of having oily skin (a major mistake), water that’s too hot (opt for lukewarm instead), aggressive mechanical exfoliants with coarse grains, combining multiple irritating active ingredients at once (retinol + AHA + BHA + concentrated vitamin C), comedogenic products (heavy mineral oils), failure to remove makeup, uncleaned brushes and sponges, picking at blackheads and pimples (scarring), neglecting sun protection, restrictive diets without medical advice, self-medicating with corticosteroids, irritating homemade remedies (lemon, vinegar, baking soda), and frequent changes to your skincare routine without proper evaluation (minimum 4–6 weeks). Gentleness and consistency are key; hydration is essential.

Balancing Routine for Oily Skin

Q: What are the main causes?

Hormonal changes (puberty, menstrual cycle, pregnancy, PCOS, menopause, androgenic treatments), genetic predisposition, an unbalanced diet (high GI, dairy products, ultra-processed foods), chronic stress (cortisol, adrenal androgens), insufficient sleep, hot and humid climate, intense exercise without proper hygiene, inappropriate skincare (rebound effect from over-cleansing), medication (corticosteroids, androgens, certain progestins), comedogenic cosmetics (heavy mineral oils), pollution and oxidative stress, smoking (3989), dermatological conditions (seborrheic dermatitis, acne).

Q: How can you control shine?

Gently cleanse morning and night (gels, syndets, non-irritating micellar waters), avoid excessive stripping (rebound effect), warm water when washing, regulating serums (niacinamide, azelaic acid), alcohol-free toners (witch hazel, salicylic acid), gentle chemical exfoliation 1–2 times per week (salicylic acid, AHAs), absorbent clay masks 1–2 times a week, lightweight non-comedogenic moisturizers (lotions, gels), thermal mist or mattifying toner throughout the day, occasional use of blotting paper, SPF 30–50+ sunscreen in a non-comedogenic mattifying formula, consistent makeup removal, clean makeup brushes, and changing pillowcases 1–2 times a week.

Q: What impact does diet have?

Limit: high GI foods (fast-acting sugars, pastries, desserts, sodas, white bread, French fries—insulin spikes and excess sebum production), excessive dairy (especially skim milk), whey protein, ultra-processed foods, fast food, saturated and trans fats, and excessive alcohol. Recommended: 5 servings of fruits and vegetables per day, leafy greens (folate, vitamin K), legumes and whole grains (moderate GI, fiber), fatty fish twice a week (anti-inflammatory omega-3 EPA and DHA), nuts and seeds (vitamin E, essential fatty acids), avocados, and olive and canola oils; zinc (oysters, meats, legumes); vitamin A (carotenoids), vitamin C (citrus fruits, kiwis, bell peppers, black currants), green tea, 1.5–2 L of water per day, and dietary probiotics.

Q: Can you wear makeup if you have oily skin?

Products to choose: non-comedogenic and non-acnegenic (as indicated on the packaging), water-based formulas preferred over heavy oil-based ones, matifying liquid foundations or mineral powders, a mattifying and blurring primer based on lightweight silicones, lightweight BB or CC creams, mineral mattifying powders as a finishing touch, mattifying setting sprays, antibacterial concealers (salicylic acid, zinc). Best practices: prepare the skin (cleansing, light moisturizing, sun protection), apply in thin layers, use clean brushes and sponges, avoid multiple layers, thoroughly remove makeup in two steps, follow the recommended shelf life, perform 48-hour patch tests, use blotting paper during the day.

Q: How often should you cleanse?

Twice a day, morning and evening: this is the ideal frequency. Morning: removes overnight sebum and prepares the skin. Evening: removes sebum, pollution, makeup, and sunscreen. Use a two-step makeup removal routine in the evening if you’re wearing makeup or sunscreen: start with a makeup-removing oil or balm, followed by a gentle water-based cleanser. After heavy sweating: a quick rinse with lukewarm water. Avoid: washing too frequently (more than twice a day stimulates compensatory sebum production), water that’s too hot, vigorous rubbing when drying, harsh detergent cleansers or alkaline soaps, lotions containing strong alcohols, and daily use of electric cleansing brushes (1–2 times a week maximum).

Q: Which face masks are beneficial?

Absorbent masks 1–2 times per week: green clay (powerful absorbent), white kaolin (gentle, for sensitive skin), pink clay (balancing), rhassoul (gentle purifier), activated vegetable charcoal (adsorbent). Chemical exfoliants: salicylic acid in a rinse-off mask (unclogs pores), glycolic acid or gentle cosmetic peels (photosensitizing), fruit enzymes (papain, bromelain). Alternating moisturizers and soothing agents: hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, niacinamide, centella asiatica, thermal waters in sheet masks. Best practices: 1–2 times per week, alternating treatments; apply to clean skin; follow recommended application time (do not let the clay dry completely); rinse with lukewarm water; follow with moisturizer; perform a 48-hour patch test.

Q: How to treat acne scars?

Types: post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) (brown marks, on skin tones ranging from medium to dark), post-inflammatory erythema (PE) (red or pink marks), atrophic depressed scars (ice-pick, boxcar, rolling), hypertrophic raised scars, keloids (raised tissue). Cosmetic treatments: azelaic acid (safe, including during pregnancy), niacinamide (gentle brightener, soothing), vitamin C (antioxidant, for marks), cosmetic retinol at night (contraindicated during pregnancy/breastfeeding, photosensitizing), salicylic acid (BHA), AHAs (photosensitizing), SPF 30–50+ sun protection is essential. Medical procedures: superficial to medium chemical peels, microdermabrasion, microneedling with or without radiofrequency, fractional lasers, subcision (for wavy scars), injectable hyaluronic acid, punch excision (ice-pick scars), IPL, LED. Dermatology consultation.

What is oily skin?

Oily skin is a skin type characterized by excessive sebum production (hyperseborrhea). Characteristics:

A constantshiny appearance across the entire face, particularly in the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin)
Visible or enlarged pores, particularly on the nose, cheeks, and chin
Thickened texture, noticeable skin texture
Feels oily to the touch a few hours after cleansing
Prone to comedones: blackheads (open comedones), whiteheads (closed comedones)
Frequent breakouts and blemishes
Makeup that “runs” quickly
Often oily scalp with hair that quickly becomes heavy after washing
Possible hyperseborrhea on the back, chest, and shoulders
Increased risk of acne and seborrheic dermatitis
Benefit: Skin is better protected against aging, with less pronounced fine lines as you age

Identifying this profile allows youto tailor your skincare routine without falling into the trap of over-cleansing. Forexcess sebum and clogged pores in general, additional resources are available to help you.

What are the main causes?

Several factors stimulate sebum production:

Hormonal changes: puberty, menstrual cycle, pregnancy, polycystic ovary syndrome, menopause, androgenic treatments
Genetic predisposition and family history
Unbalanced diet: high glycemic index, excessive dairy products, ultra-processed foods
Chronic stress: elevated cortisol levels and activation of adrenal androgens
Insufficient or poor-qualitysleep
Hot and humid climate: stimulation of the sebaceous glands
Intense exercise without proper hygiene after sweating
Inappropriate skincare: harsh products causing a paradoxical rebound effect
Triggering medications: corticosteroids, androgens, certain progestin-based contraceptives
Comedogenic cosmetics: heavy mineral oils, certain occlusive fats
Air pollution and oxidative stress
Smoking (Tobacco Info Service: 3989)
Associateddermatological conditions: seborrheic dermatitis, acne

Identifying modifiable factors guides the treatment strategy.

How can you control shine?

There are several ways to manage excess oil:

Gently cleanse morning and night with a product suitable for oily skin (gels, syndets, non-irritating micellar waters)
Avoid excessive scrubbing, which causes a paradoxical rebound effect
Uselukewarm water when washing (not hot)
Regulating serums containing niacinamide or azelaic acid
Alcohol-free toners with witch hazel or salicylic acid
Gentle chemical exfoliation 1 to 2 times per week at most (salicylic acid, AHAs)
Absorbent masks with green or white clay 1 to 2 times a week
Light, non-comedogenic moisturizers (lotions, gels)
Thermal water spray or mattifying toner throughout the day
Occasional use ofmattifying blotting paper to absorb shine without disturbing makeup
Sunscreen SPF 30 to 50+ with a non-comedogenic mattifying formula
Remove makeup thoroughly every night
Makeup brushes cleaned regularly
Pillowcase changed 1 to 2 times a week

Our natural antioxidants section offers supplements to support a balanced diet.

Which cosmetic active ingredients should you prioritize?

Several well-documented ingredients help regulate sebum production:

Niacinamide (vitamin B3): regulates sebum production, soothes redness, is well-tolerated, and improves the appearance of pores
Salicylic acid (BHA): a lipophilic exfoliant that unclogs pores
Zinc (gluconate, PCA): regulates sebum production
Azelaic acid: anti-inflammatory, anti-seborrheic; considered one of the safest ingredients, even during pregnancy, according to medical advice
AHAs (glycolic, lactic, and mandelic acids): gentle exfoliants (photosensitizing)
Green or white clay: absorbent when used as an occasional mask
Activated vegetable charcoal: adsorbent in specific formulations
White willow extract: a natural source of salicylic acid
Witch hazel extract: toning and mild astringent
Green tea: antioxidant and sebum-regulating polyphenols
Cosmetic retinol: promotes cell renewal (for evening use only; photosensitizing; contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding)
Bakuchiol: plant-based alternative to retinol
Light, non-comedogenic moisturizers: hyaluronic acid, glycerin, plant-based squalane
PHAs (gluconolactone, lactobionic acid): ultra-gentle exfoliants for sensitive and oily skin

Gradually introducing one active ingredient at a time allows you to check for tolerance.

What impact does diet have?

Diet directly influences sebum production:

Foods to limit:

High glycemic index: simple sugars, pastries, desserts, sodas, white bread, French fries (promote insulin spikes and excess sebum production)
Excessivedairy products: skim milk in particular
Whey protein and commercially produced high-protein supplements
Ultra-processed foods and fast food
Excess saturated and transfats
Excessivealcohol consumption

Foods to prioritize:

Colorful fruits and vegetables —5 servings per day for a variety of vitamins and antioxidants
Green vegetables (spinach, broccoli, kale, lamb’s lettuce): folate, vitamin K
Legumes and whole grains: moderate glycemic index, fiber
Fatty fish twice a week (salmon, sardines, mackerel): anti-inflammatory omega-3 EPA and DHA
Nuts and seeds (walnuts, almonds, flaxseeds): vitamin E, essential fatty acids
Avocado, olive oil, and canola oil: high-quality fats
Zinc-rich foods (oysters, meats, legumes): support healthy skin
Vitamin A (carotenoids: carrots, sweet potatoes, mangoes, apricots)
Vitamin C (citrus fruits, kiwis, bell peppers, black currants): antioxidant
Green tea: antioxidant polyphenols
Hydration: 1.5 to 2 L of water per day
Dietary probiotics (plain yogurt, kefir, lacto-fermented vegetables)

A balanced diet complements topical skincare for better long-term results.

Can you wear makeup if you have oily skin?

Makeup is compatible with oily skin under certain conditions:

Recommended products:

Non-comedogenic and non-acnegenicproducts (labels visible on the packaging)
Water-based formulas are preferable to heavy, oil-based formulations
Mattifying liquid foundations or mineral powders
Mattifying primers that blur pores, made with lightweight silicones
Lightweight, non-comedogenicBB or CC creams
Mineral-basedmattifying powders for the finishing touch
Mattifying setting sprays for the finishing touch
Antibacterial concealers containing salicylic acid or zinc

Best application practices:

Prepared skin: cleanse, lightly moisturize, and apply sunscreen beforehand
Apply in thin layers rather than thick ones
Brushes and sponges should be clean and disinfected regularly
Avoid applying multiple layers of different products
Thorough makeup removal at the end of the day in two steps (makeup remover oil followed by a gentle cleanser)
Replace products as recommended (follow the “Use by” date)
Conducta 48-hourtolerance test beforehand
Useblotting paper throughout the day to absorb oil without reapplying makeup

Makeup is never the cause of breakouts on its own: it’s the quality of the products, how well they’re suited to your skin, and thorough removal that make the difference.

How often should you cleanse?

The frequency of cleansing is crucial for maintaining balance:

Twice a day, morning and night: the ideal recommended frequency
In the morning: removes overnight sebum and prepares the skin for daytime skincare
In the evening: removes accumulated sebum, pollution, makeup, and sunscreen
A two-step makeup removal routine in the evening if you’re wearing makeup or sunscreen:
1. Makeup-removing oil or balm to dissolve oils
2. A gentle water-based cleanser to remove residue and impurities
After heavy sweating (exercise, extreme heat): Quick rinse with lukewarm water

Avoid:

Washing too frequently (more than twice a day): stimulates compensatory sebum production
Water that is too hot: irritates and weakens the skin barrier
Vigorous rubbing when drying
Harsh detergents or alkaline soaps
Lotions containinghigh-proof alcohol
Daily use ofelectric cleansing brushes (use in moderation, 1 to 2 times a week at most)

Over-cleansing is the most common mistake: the skin compensates by producing more sebum (rebound effect).

Which face masks are beneficial?

Face masks allow for effective, targeted treatment:

Absorbent masks (1 to 2 times a week):

Green clay: a powerful absorbent for very oily areas
White clay (kaolin): a gentler absorbent for sensitive skin
Pink clay: balancing
Rhassoul clay: purifying and gentle
Activated vegetable charcoal: adsorbs impurities and excess sebum

Chemical exfoliating masks:

Salicylic acid in a rinse-off mask: unclogs pores
Glycolic acid or gentle cosmetic peels (photosensitizing)
Fruit enzymes (papain, bromelain): gentle enzymatic exfoliation

Alternating moisturizing and soothing masks:

Hyaluronic acid: light moisturizer
Aloe vera: soothing and moisturizing
Niacinamide: balancing
Centella asiatica: soothing
Thermal waters in sheet masks: soothing

Best practices:

Use1 to 2 times a week at most, alternating between purifying and moisturizing products
Apply to clean, makeup-freeskin
Follow the recommendedapplication time (do not let clay masks dry completely)
Rinse with lukewarm water
Follow up witha moisturizer after the mask
Performa 48-hourpatch test beforehand

Multi-masking (treating different areas differently) is particularly useful.

What kind of sun protection should you use?

Sun protection is essential for oily skin:

Benefits:

Prevention of photoaging
Protection against UV-inducedworsening of enlarged pores and seborrhea
Prevents post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from acne scars
Reduces the post-tanningrebound effect (post-vacation acne)
Preservation of the skin barrier’s integrity
Compatibility with photosensitizing active ingredients (AHAs, BHAs, retinol)

Selection criteria:

Broad-spectrumSPF 30 to 50+ (UVA + UVB)
Fluid, gel, gel-cream, or light emulsion texture
Mattifying formulation
Non-comedogenic and oil-freeformulation
Mineral filters (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide), which are often better tolerated by blemish-prone skin
Modern, stable, and well-toleratedchemical filters
Tinted, mattifyingsun protection as an alternative to foundation
Synergisticantioxidants (vitamin E, polyphenols)

Best application practices:

2 mg/cm² (equivalent to one teaspoon for the face)
Apply 15–20 minutes before sun exposure
Reapply every 2 hours during intense sun exposure
Apply to the neck, ears, and décolletage —areas often overlooked
Use daily, winter and summer
Strictly avoid tanning beds (classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the IARC)

Our high-protection sunscreen line offers products suitable for oily skin.

How to treat acne scars?

Acne scars on oily skin require a gradual approach:

Types of marks and scars:

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH): brown or dark marks, common on medium to dark skin tones
Post-inflammatory erythema (PIE): persistent red or pink marks
Atrophic scars: ice-pick, boxcar, and rolling
Hypertrophic raisedscars
Keloid scars: raised tissue extending beyond the original lesion

Useful cosmetic treatments:

Azelaic acid: for pigmented marks (safe even during pregnancy, according to medical advice)
Niacinamide: gentle skin-lightening and soothing
Vitamin C: antioxidant, reduces the appearance of marks
Cosmetic retinol: promotes cell turnover (use in the evening; contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding; photosensitizing)
Salicylic acid (BHA ): targets dark spots and unclogs pores
AHAs as chemical exfoliants (photosensitizing)
Strict sun protection with SPF 30 to 50+ is essential

Available medical procedures:

Superficial to mediumchemical peels performed in a medical office
Microdermabrasion in the clinic
Microneedling with or without radiofrequency
Ablative or non-ablativefractional lasers
Subcision for wavy scars
Hyaluronic acid injections to fill certain atrophic scars
Punch excision for ice-pick scars
Intense pulsed light (IPL) for erythema and hyperpigmentation
LED phototherapy as a complementary treatment

A dermatology consultation is recommended to evaluate personalized treatment options. The earlier active acne is treated, the fewer permanent scars will form. For acne marks and acne breakouts in general, a consistent, long-term strategy is essential.

What cosmetic mistakes should you avoid?

Several common mistakes can perpetuate or worsen seborrhea:

Over-cleansing: causes a paradoxical rebound effect (compensatory sebum overproduction)
Excessive stripping with alkaline soaps or strong alcohols
Avoiding moisturization under the pretext of having oily skin (a major mistake)
Usingwater that’s too hot when washing (opt for lukewarm instead)
Aggressive mechanical exfoliation with coarse grains
Simultaneoususe of multiple irritating active ingredients (retinol + AHA + BHA + concentrated vitamin C)
Comedogenic products: heavy mineral oils, certain occlusive oils
Not removing makeup at the end of the day
Brushes and sponges not cleaned regularly
Manually squeezing blackheads and pimples (risk of scarring)
Neglected or inadequatesun protection
Restrictive diets without medical advice
Self-medication with topical corticosteroids
Homemade remedies with high irritant potential (lemon, vinegar, baking soda)
Frequent changes to skincare routines without allowing time to assess their effects (at least 4 to 6 weeks)

Gentleness and consistency are more important than occasional aggressive treatments.Moisturizing is essential even for oily skin: choose lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas. Your pharmacist remains a valuable resource for helping you establish a suitable skincare routine and, in cases of severe seborrhea or active acne, referring you to an appropriate dermatologist.