9 min read

Many people with oily skin have tried to wash the shine away, and found it back within a few hours, sometimes with tight, flaky patches added. The oil comes from small glands in your skin, and how much they make is set mostly by your hormones and your genes. A routine that works with them keeps the shine down without leaving your skin tight and uncomfortable.

The short answer

Oily skin makes more oil than other skin types, and the excess sits on the surface across your face. How much it makes is affected by hormones, genetics, age, climate and the health of your skin. Skincare cannot switch off your oil glands, but it can help reduce excess oiliness with gentle cleansing, lightweight hydration and ingredients such as niacinamide, salicylic acid and azelaic acid.

Read time 9 min
Suits Oily, Combination, Dehydrated

Where the oil comes from

Your skin has two kinds of glands that release onto its surface: sweat glands, which make sweat, and oil glands, called sebaceous glands, which make sebum, your skin's natural oil. Oil glands are attached to the hair follicles, the tiny tubes in your skin that each hold a hair. On the face, the oil glands cluster most densely across the forehead, nose and chin, the area called the T-zone, which is why it is usually the shiniest part. Sebum travels up the follicle, out through the pore, and spreads across the surface of your skin.

Sebum does real work. Mixed with sweat on the surface, it forms the acid mantle, a thin, slightly acidic film that is part of your skin barrier. The barrier holds water in and keeps irritants out. Sebum also carries antioxidants such as vitamin E up to the surface. The aim of a routine is less shine, rather than taking away oil your skin needs.

Why some skin makes more

Hormones are the main driver. Androgens, hormones everyone has and men have more of, tell the oil glands to grow and produce more. That is why oiliness usually starts at puberty, why it can rise and fall across your cycle, and why it tends to drop after menopause.

If your skin has become much oilier along with irregular periods, new hair growth on your face or body, or thinning hair on your head, see a doctor, because hormones may be the cause.

Your genes set much of your starting point, and climate moves it. A study that measured facial oil in the same people across a year found the highest levels in summer, and hot, humid weather increases shine for most people.

Oily and dry at the same time

Feeling oily and dry at the same time is one of the most common concerns our oily-skin clients bring to our New York City LAZ Clinic. It usually means oily and dehydrated.

Oil and water are different things in your skin, and they do different jobs. Water sits within the skin and keeps it plump, smooth and working well. The oil your skin makes is a mix of oils and fats, and it sits on the surface as a thin layer that helps stop that water from evaporating.

Dehydrated skin is skin that is short of water. Dry skin is skin that makes too little oil. Dehydration is not a skin type, so any skin can be short of water, including oily skin, which is why it can look shiny, feel tight and flake in places all at once.

Dehydration usually comes from the routine rather than the skin type: cleansers that strip, several drying products at once, and skipping moisturizer to avoid adding shine.

Does washing more make skin oilier?

It can. Your glands release a steady amount of oil through the day, which means shine returns within a few hours whatever cleanser you use, and washing more often cannot stop that. What frequent washing and harsh cleansers can do is strip the oils your skin needs.

In our clinic, we see stripped skin respond as if it is not making enough oil, and sometimes make even more, while it also becomes dehydrated and uncomfortable. That is why gentle cleansing matters more than how often you wash.

Diagram of a hair follicle with an oil gland attached to its side, with droplets of oil traveling up the follicle and spreading as a thin layer across the skin surface.
Oil is made in glands beside each hair follicle and flows steadily up onto your skin through the day.

How to balance oily skin

Balancing oily skin works on four things at the same time:

  • Cleansing without stripping, so the oil your barrier needs stays.
  • Keeping your skin hydrated, because oily skin can still be short of water.
  • Working on the oil itself, with the right ingredients.
  • Protecting your skin from the sun every day.

Cleanse twice a day, gently

A gentle gel or foaming cleanser in the morning and evening is enough for most oily skin, as long as your skin feels comfortable afterwards rather than tight.

Keep your skin hydrated

Oily skin still needs a moisturizer. A lightweight gel or lotion keeps water in without adding heavy oils. Sodium hyaluronate holds water in the skin with no oil at all, which makes it useful when your skin is oily and dehydrated at once.

Use ingredients that work on oil

The ingredients we use most for oily skin work in three ways. Some reduce how much oil sits on the surface. Some absorb oil. Some are exfoliants: an exfoliant loosens the bonds that hold dead skin cells together, so they shed instead of building up, and the ones that dissolve in oil can clear the mix of oil and dead cells inside a pore. Each ingredient below has its own article in the Ingredients that help section.

Niacinamide helps regulate oil. In two small studies, a moisturizer with two percent niacinamide lowered facial oil within two to six weeks. It also supports your barrier and calms redness.

Salicylic acid is an exfoliant that is attracted to oil, which lets it travel inside the pore and break apart the mix of oil and dead skin cells that collects there. It helps oily skin look clearer, and it helps clear clogged pores, also called congestion.

Azelaic acid helps clear pores and calms redness. In one small study of people with acne, it lowered facial oil by about 14 percent, although earlier research found no change.

Sulfur soaks up excess oil and helps clear congestion. Its smell makes a wash-off mask or night product the easiest way to use it.

Retinoids are the vitamin A family of skincare ingredients. They speed up cell turnover, which is how often your skin sheds old cells and replaces them, and that helps oil and dead cells move out of pores. Their clearest results are on pores, texture and breakouts rather than oil itself.

Mandelic acid is an exfoliating acid that suits oily and breakout-prone skin and helps keep pores clear.

Several of these ingredients can be drying, and starting them all at once is one of the most common reasons oily skin ends up dehydrated. Start with one, and add a second after two weeks if your skin is comfortable.

Choose a lightweight sunscreen

Gel, fluid and matte textures tend to suit oily skin, and zinc oxide, a mineral filter, helps absorb excess oil while it protects. The right sunscreen for you is the one you will actually apply every morning and reapply throughout the day.

Diagram comparing two blocks of skin: one with a thin oil layer and plenty of water inside, and one with a thicker oil layer, little water and small cracks at the surface.
Shine on the surface does not mean the skin underneath has enough water, which is why oily skin still needs a moisturizer.

Common questions

How long until my skin looks less oily?

Most people notice less shine within four weeks of a consistent routine, and the change keeps building over eight to twelve weeks.

Weeks two and three are where people tend to give up, or add another drying product, because the shine still comes back by the afternoon. Keep going without changing anything. The photo routine in the How to use it section below makes the change easier to see.

If you start salicylic acid, mandelic acid or a retinoid, a few extra small bumps in the first weeks are usually purging. These ingredients speed up cell turnover, which brings clogged pores that were already forming up to the surface sooner, in the areas where you usually get them. A purge can take three to six months to settle. Bumps in new areas, burning or itching are different: they mean the product does not suit your skin, and you should stop using it.

Does oily skin need a different routine in winter?

Yes, often, depending on where you live. If your skin feels tighter and less shiny in colder months, a slightly richer moisturizer, an oil or cream cleanser and fewer oil-balancing products may suit it better then. Change your routine when your skin starts behaving differently, rather than on a set date.

Do blotting papers and powders help?

Yes, for shine during the day. Blotting papers lift oil off the surface and a mattifying powder absorbs it. Neither changes how much oil your skin makes, and both are fine to use whenever you need them.

Can I use these ingredients during pregnancy?

Yes, most of them. Niacinamide is considered among the safest options. Salicylic acid at around 0.5 to 1 percent is often considered acceptable, although not every doctor agrees, and the same applies while breastfeeding. Most retinoids are avoided, and some may be acceptable depending on the retinoid. Skincare ingredients are almost never tested on pregnant people, so check anything new with your OB, midwife or doctor.

How to use it

  • Cleanse morning and evening with a gentle cleanser that leaves your skin comfortable rather than tight.
  • Use a lightweight moisturizer every day, even when your skin feels oily.
  • Start one oil-balancing ingredient, such as niacinamide or salicylic acid, and wait two weeks before adding a second.
  • Blot during the day instead of washing again.
  • Wear broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning, and reapply it throughout the day.
  • Photograph your skin on day one, in the same spot and in natural daylight, and again every four weeks.
Start with the basics Skincare 101: Know Your Skin, Build Your Basics
Evidence and sources
  • Endly DC, Miller RA. Oily Skin: A review of Treatment Options. The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2017. How hormones, age and season affect oil production, the steady rate at which skin makes oil, and the evidence for topical niacinamide and retinoids. Read the review
  • Sakuma TH, Maibach HI. Oily Skin: An Overview. Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2012. How the oil glands work, how oil relates to hydration and the barrier, and how oiliness varies with age, sex and hot, humid climates. Read the review
  • Draelos ZD, Matsubara A, Smiles K. The effect of 2% niacinamide on facial sebum production. Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 2006. The two niacinamide studies described above, in 100 and 30 adults. Read the study
  • Stinco G, Bragadin G, Trotter D, Pillon B, Patrone P. Relationship between sebostatic activity, tolerability and efficacy of three topical drugs to treat mild to moderate acne. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2007. The study of 65 people with acne in which azelaic acid lowered facial oil by about 14 percent, while benzoyl peroxide and adapalene did not lower it consistently. Read the study
  • Youn SW, Na JI, Choi SY, Huh CH, Park KC. Regional and seasonal variations in facial sebum secretions: a proposal for the definition of combination skin type. Skin Research and Technology, 2005. The year-long study that found facial oil highest in summer and highest across the forehead, nose and chin. Read the study

A note on the evidence. How hormones drive oil production is well understood. Research on skincare ingredients that reduce oil is thinner than you might expect: the niacinamide studies were small and short, and topical retinoids have not been shown to lower oil production directly. Research has not settled whether stripping makes skin produce more oil. What we describe here, including that, combines the research with what we see in the clinic.

Last reviewed

Ingredients that help

What each one does, how it works and how to use it.

Products for Oily Skin

  • Face Reality

    Mineral Matte SPF 28

    4.8 out of 5.0 stars

    $36.00

    Mineral sunscreen with a matte finish that absorbs oil, for oilier, lighter skin tones.

    Mineral Matte SPF 28 is a favorite for oily or reactive skin. It feels light, helps calm redness, doesn't leave the skin oily and won’t cause irritation like many sunscreens can. If you prefer even thinner, chemical option, Daily SPF 30 is another great choice.

    Laziza SFounder & Head Esthetician

    Daily Sun Protection Without the Breakouts

    Face Reality Mineral Matte SPF 28 is a lightweight, acne-safe sunscreen designed for daily use. It provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays, helping to prevent sun damage, dark spots, and premature aging without clogging pores or triggering breakouts. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide settle into the top layer of your skin and absorb UV rays, turning them into heat.

    Ideal for Acne-Prone and Sensitive Skin

    This non-comedogenic formula was developed with breakout-prone skin in mind. It is free of pore-clogging ingredients and contains soothing botanicals that calm irritation while shielding the skin from environmental stress and daily UV exposure. Allantoin, a naturally soothing compound, helps calm redness, making it a favorite for oily or reactive skin.

    Works Seamlessly Under Makeup

    Mineral Matte SPF 28 has a smooth, non-greasy finish that makes it perfect under makeup or as the last step in your morning routine. It will not pill, streak, or leave a white cast, just a clean, comfortable, and protective layer on skin. Reapply every two hours outdoors, and more often when sweating or swimming.

    Fits Into Any Clear Skin Routine

    Sun protection is essential when using actives like mandelic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or retinoids. This SPF helps defend against further pigmentation and supports long-term skin clarity and health, especially important during an active acne routine. Apply it generously to the face and neck as the last step each morning, and reapply through the day.

  • SkinBetter Science

    Mystro Active Balance Serum

    4.8 out of 5.0 stars

    From $115.00

    Adaptogen-powered serum that restores balance and improves redness, dullness, and uneven tone.

    Our skin is always working hard to find a balance while dealing with stress and other factors that come with aging. It takes a lot of energy for our skin to find that balance, and sometimes it needs a little help. Mystro Serum gives your skin the boost it needs to achieve that perfect balance. Works wonders on dullness, redness, rough texture, enlarged pores, or uneven tone.

    Laziza SFounder & Head Esthetician

    Restores Balance for Healthier, Glowing Skin

    Mystro Active Balance Serum takes a unique approach to skin health by helping your skin adapt to stress and maintain its natural equilibrium. Using proprietary P.A.T.H. Technology, it works to visibly improve skin quality while restoring a healthier, more radiant appearance. Apply half to one pump after your serums and before moisturizer, morning and night.

    Targets Multiple Skin Concerns

    Within two to eight weeks of twice-daily use, Mystro helps reduce visible redness, smooth rough texture, minimize pore size, and brighten uneven pigmentation. Over time, skin appears clearer, softer, and more even-toned, with a renewed glow that reflects healthy skin. Alpha-lipoic acid, a naturally occurring antioxidant with brightening properties, supports a calmer, more even look, and the formula suits all skin types.

    Boosts Skin Resilience and Hydration

    A blend of plant-based adaptogens, antioxidants, and moisture-balancing ingredients supports your skin barrier while locking in hydration. This dual action not only improves suppleness and smoothness but also helps skin bounce back more easily from daily stressors. It is fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, a good fit for reactive skin or skin recovering from a procedure.

    Clinically Proven Results

    In studies, noticeable improvements began within two weeks, with visible changes in skin clarity, texture, and tone after eight weeks of twice-daily use. By 12 weeks, 98% of participants reported feeling more confident about their skin’s appearance. The formula pairs P.A.T.H. Technology with astaxanthin, an antioxidant derived from algae that also gives the serum its unique color.

  • Epicutis

    Oil Cleanser

    4.9 out of 5.0 stars

    $85.00

    A silky, acne-safe cleansing oil that melts away makeup and impurities while supporting the barrier.

    The Epicutis Oil Cleanser has become a favorite in the clinic. My clients are obsessed with how easily it removes makeup, even eye makeup, without irritation. It’s acne-safe, barrier-supportive, and so gentle, making it the one oil cleanser I trust for both dry and oily skin types, especially when the barrier is stripped or over-exfoliated.

    Laziza SFounder & Head Esthetician

    A Cleanser That Heals While It Cleans

    The Epicutis Oil Cleanser goes beyond basic makeup removal. This ultra-gentle formula lifts away dirt, sunscreen, and excess oil without stripping the skin's natural barrier. Powered by healing plant oils and the patented TSC molecule, it leaves skin clean, calm, and replenished. Massage two to three pumps onto dry skin, add lukewarm water to emulsify, and rinse.

    Safe for Sensitivity, Breakouts, and Barrier Repair

    Formulated for even the most reactive skin types, this oil cleanser is free from fragrance, surfactants, and irritating preservatives. Whether you are dealing with acne, rosacea, or post-procedure healing, it cleans without disrupting the skin's microbiome or triggering flare-ups. Hinoki wood oil, from the Japanese cypress tree, adds calming and anti-inflammatory benefits.

    Your First Step to a Stronger Barrier

    This oil-based formula helps reinforce barrier strength. It removes impurities while hydrating and calming, making it the ideal prep step before applying the Epicutis Lipid Serum or HYVIA Crème. Sunflower seed oil deeply nourishes and strengthens the barrier without clogging pores, leaving skin comfortable and supple. It is acne-safe and suits both dry and oily skin.

    Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Benefits

    With just eight ingredients, all chosen for purity and biocompatibility, the Epicutis Oil Cleanser keeps its formula simple. It delivers a gentle yet thorough cleanse that removes makeup, even eye makeup, and leaves your skin feeling soft, not tight or dry. Use it alone for a gentle daily cleanse, or repeat for a double cleanse at night.

  • GlyMed

    Oil-Free Protective Moisturizer SPF 15

    5.0 out of 5.0 stars

    $56.00

    A light, non-greasy moisturizer with SPF that hydrates and protects from UV without clogging pores.

    My clients love this Oil-Free SPF Moisturizer because it’s simple, light, and reliable. They can throw it on before walking the dog or chasing kids outside and know their skin is protected and hydrated without feeling greasy.

    Laziza SFounder & Head Esthetician

    Daily Hydration with SPF Protection

    This oil-free moisturizer combines lightweight hydration with broad-spectrum SPF 15 protection. It shields against UVA rays that accelerate aging and UVB rays that cause sunburn, making it a reliable and easy choice for everyday skin defense. It pairs octinoxate, a chemical filter that absorbs UV rays, with zinc oxide, a mineral filter that also calms acne-prone skin.

    Comfortable, Non-Greasy Formula

    Designed to absorb quickly, this moisturizer leaves skin smooth and hydrated without heaviness or unwanted shine. Its oil-free texture makes it an ideal daily option for acne-prone, oily, or combination skin types. Hyaluronic acid draws water into the skin for lasting moisture and a smoother, more supple texture, so oily skin stays hydrated without extra weight.

    A Seamless Step in Your Routine

    With its smooth, breathable texture, this moisturizer layers easily under makeup or alongside other skincare. It simplifies your morning regimen by providing both hydration and broad-spectrum sun protection in a single, convenient step. Apply one to two pumps to the face and neck as the final step of your morning routine.

    Simplifies Your Morning Routine

    One application delivers both lightweight hydration and SPF protection, cutting down on layers without sacrificing coverage or comfort. It is an easy, dependable choice for consistent daily skin maintenance and care. Reapply every two hours when you spend extended time outdoors. It is light enough to wear before a quick walk outside with the dog or kids.

  • GlyMed

    Oxygen Deep Pore Masque

    4.9 out of 5.0 stars

    $62.00

    A purifying mask that clears congestion, helps heal and softens skin.

    If your skin feels clogged, dull, or oily, the Oxygen Deep Pore Masque is perfect for a reset. It deeply cleans and purifies with oxygen-boosted enzymes, refines texture, minimizes shine, and helps brighten dull areas, all without drying you out. It feels so bubbly and nice on the skin, I love using it 1–3 times a week for a refresher <3

    Laziza SFounder & Head Esthetician

    Detox and Deep Clean in One Step

    This oxygenating masque purifies clogged pores while delivering a revitalizing boost to tired, sluggish skin. It activates desincrustation, a deep-cleansing process that softens and clears buildup in the pores, helping restore clarity to congested, unbalanced skin. Leave it on for five to ten minutes after cleansing, then rinse, two to three times a week.

    Brightens Skin and Boosts Cell Turnover

    With fruit enzymes from watermelon, lentil, and apple, this formula gently resurfaces the skin while stimulating cellular renewal. The result is smoother texture, refined pores, and a noticeable glow without heavy scrubbing. Panthenol and glycerin help maintain moisture while the enzymes work, so skin feels soft and comfortable after rinsing. It has a light, bubbly feel on the skin.

    Powered by Oxygen and Fermented Botanicals

    Fermented wasabi and sake extracts, along with oxygenating ingredients like Tropaeolum majus and reishi mushroom, help deliver energy to skin cells and support a healthy microbiome. These plant-based ingredients work together to encourage balanced, clearer-looking skin. Ganoderma lucidum, the reishi mushroom extract, is rich in antioxidants and known for soothing inflammation and supporting skin vitality.

    Ideal for Dull, Congested, or Acne-Prone Skin

    This masque was designed for anyone dealing with blackheads, dull tone, or buildup that sits deep in the pores. It clears without stripping and leaves skin feeling smooth, balanced, and primed for your next step. It suits dry, oily, and combination skin, and it is a helpful reset for non-inflamed acne, excess oil, and large pores.

  • Environ

    Pre-Cleansing Oil

    $42.00

    Non-comedogenic cleansing oil with salicylic acid for congested skin.

    Many clients avoid salicylic acid because it can strip the skin's natural oils and leave it feeling dry or irritated. What makes Environ Pre-Cleansing Oil different is that it combines salicylic acid with an oil base, so you get the benefits of salicylic without that same drying effect. It's non-comedogenic and works for all skin types, but I especially like it for dry skin with blackheads and clogged pores because you can address the congestion without further stripping the skin.

    Laziza SFounder & Head Esthetician

    Oil Cleanser That Softens, Decongests, and Removes Makeup

    Environ Dual Action Pre-Cleansing Oil is a lightweight cleansing oil that dissolves makeup, sunscreen, excess oil, and environmental impurities without stripping the skin. It softens texture, helps decongest pores, and prepares the skin for a second cleanser and the rest of the routine. Contains fragrance. Use within 10 to 12 weeks of opening. Suitable for normal, dry, sensitive, and combination skin types.

    Removes Makeup and Impurities Without Stripping

    Oil cleansing works on the principle that like dissolves like. The lightweight oils in this formula bind to makeup, sunscreen, sebum, and environmental pollutants on the skin's surface and lift them away without stripping moisture or disrupting the skin's natural barrier. Skin feels clean and hydrated after rinsing, making it suitable for normal, dry, sensitive, and even combination skin types.

    Decongests Pores and Softens Skin Texture

    Beyond makeup removal, this pre-cleansing oil helps dissolve the buildup of sebum and debris inside pores that contributes to blackheads, whiteheads, and congestion over time. The BHA component in the formula supports this pore-clearing action, helping skin feel visibly smoother and less congested with consistent use. Unlike harsh cleansers that strip the skin to achieve this, it decongests without disrupting the barrier or causing dryness.

    Gentle Enough for Sensitive and Oily Skin

    Oily and combination skin types sometimes avoid oil cleansers over concerns about congestion. This formula emulsifies completely with water and rinses clean, leaving no oily residue on the skin. Its BHA content supports pore clarity, making it appropriate even for skin that is prone to congestion. For sensitive skin, it offers a thorough cleanse with a gentle feel.

  • Biomecult

    Prebiotic Fiber

    $69.00 Sold out

    Daily prebiotic fiber blend that supports acne, digestion and microbiome diversity from within.

    If you are acne prone, check how much fiber you are actually getting in a day. At my clinic we noticed that most clients dealing with acne also do not consume enough fiber. If you are congested down there, you are congested in your face too. Biome Cult makes getting your daily fiber easy and actually enjoyable because it tastes like high quality cocoa. I mix it with cold water or milk first thing in the morning before coffee. Fast, easy, and seven grams of fiber before your day has even started.

    Laziza SFounder & Head Esthetician

    Supports Gut Health and Clearer Skin

    Biome Cult Prebiotic Fiber is a daily supplement formulated to support the gut-skin axis, assist in clearing acne, promote optimal digestion, and build a resilient, diverse microbiome. With seven grams of organic soluble, insoluble, and prebiotic fiber per serving, it strengthens the gut barrier and its function from within. Crafted with high-quality organic ingredients for daily use.

    Supports the Gut-Skin Axis

    The gut-skin axis is the direct biological connection between digestive health and skin health. When the gut microbiome is imbalanced or the gut barrier is compromised, it can manifest visibly in the skin as redness, breakouts, and sensitivity. Biome Cult Prebiotic Fiber nourishes beneficial gut bacteria, strengthens the gut barrier, and supports the internal balance that healthy, clearer skin depends on.

    Supports Clearer, Healthier-Looking Skin From Within

    Skin health is deeply connected to what happens inside the body. Chronic gut imbalance contributes to systemic inflammation that can manifest as persistent skin concerns including acne, redness, and sensitivity. By supporting a healthy, balanced gut environment daily, Biome Cult Prebiotic Fiber helps address one of the most overlooked root causes of skin issues, making it a meaningful complement to any topical skincare routine.

    Supports Hormone Health and Overall Wellness

    Adequate daily fiber intake plays a role in hormone regulation, including how the body metabolizes circulating estrogen. Biome Cult Prebiotic Fiber supports gut and skin health along with hormonal balance and long-term wellness. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

  • SkinBetter Science

    Refining Foam Cleanser

    4.9 out of 5.0 stars

    From $26.00

    Exfoliating cleanser with AHAs and salicylic acid that clears pores and refines skin texture.

    If you’re dealing with congestion, dullness, or excess oil, Refining Foam Cleanser is a must. It leaves skin soft, smooth, and refreshed without stripping, and even doubles as a makeup remover. My clients love how much brighter and softer their skin looks after just a few weeks.

    Laziza SFounder & Head Esthetician

    Gently Exfoliates While Cleansing

    Refining Foam Cleanser is a velvety-soft, multitasking formula that cleanses and lightly exfoliates to reveal brighter, smoother-looking skin. With alpha hydroxy acids and salicylic acid, it lifts dead skin cells, excess oil, and impurities without stripping essential moisture. Massage one to two pumps into damp skin with your fingertips, then rinse with warm water.

    Improves Skin Texture and Radiance

    Daily use helps refine skin’s texture and unclog pores for a clearer, more even look. Over time, it minimizes congestion, softens rough patches, and enhances your skin’s natural glow, making it an ideal first step in a refining or clarifying routine. Salicylic acid reaches into pores to clear out debris and congestion.

    Cleanses and Leaves Skin Hydrated

    Despite its exfoliating action, this cleanser keeps skin hydrated and conditioned with a special blend of emollients and barrier-supporting agents. The airy foam feels luxurious to apply and rinses clean, leaving skin feeling refreshed, soft, and not tight. Beta glucan contributes soothing, hydrating, and barrier-strengthening support, and the formula is fragrance-free and non-comedogenic.

    Clinically Tested for Visible Results

    In clinical studies, over 94% of participants noticed brighter, more refined skin, softer texture, and reduced congestion after just four weeks of twice-daily use. It is gentle enough for normal-to-oily skin and even tested safe for contact lens wearers. Glycolic acid, the smallest AHA, exfoliates the surface, and the foam doubles as a makeup remover.

  • Hale & Hush

    Relief Bio-Powder

    $42.00

    Helps reduce redness, heat, irritation, and excess oil without drying the skin.

    If your skin gets red, irritated, overheated, or oily, Hale & Hush Relief Bio-Powder helps calm the skin while still feeling very lightweight. I also like how multifunctional this product is. It can be used as a spot treatment, mixed into a cleanser or mask during reactive skin flare-ups, or even used as a setting powder to help absorb excess oil throughout the day. One of my favorite recommendations for reactive skin.

    Laziza SFounder & Head Esthetician

    Multi-Use Powder for Reactive and Sensitive Skin

    Hale and Hush Relief Bio Powder is a finely milled botanical powder formulated for reactive, sensitized, and redness-prone skin. It works as a dry concealing powder, a spot treatment paste, or a soothing mask depending on what skin needs. Eight plant-derived actives reduce redness, ease irritation, and support recovery. Fragrance-free, pregnancy safe, and oncology safe.

    Calms Redness and Soothes Irritated Skin Fast

    Redness from sensitivity, environmental triggers, or reactive skin needs more than surface-level soothing. Relief Bio Powder contains calamine, beta-glucan, and allantoin that calm the skin's reactive response, visibly reduce redness, and relieve itchiness and discomfort on contact. It is designed to be used during a flare-up rather than only as a preventative measure.

    Interrupts the Inflammatory Cycle Below the Surface

    Surface redness is often a sign of deeper inflammatory activity that standard calming products cannot fully address. Relief Bio Powder contains two clinically studied anti-inflammatory botanicals that interrupt the skin's inflammatory signaling at different points in the cycle. For persistent redness, rosacea, or chronic flare-ups, this level of intervention produces more lasting results than surface soothing alone.

    Conceals Redness Without Feeling Like Makeup

    The powder contains mineral pigments that provide a light, skin-tone-blending coverage that visually neutralizes redness without the texture or weight of makeup. It works best applied directly over areas of redness as a targeted concealing step rather than all-over coverage. Note: on contact with oil or moisture, the powder may develop a warm yellow or orange tone on some skin tones.

  • Hydrinity

    RetaXome Retinal Boost Treatment Pads

    $90.00

    Retinal plus a 5-acid blend in leave-on pads that resurface, brighten, and clear congestion.

    If you have multiple concerns going on at once, like pigmentation, aging, texture, clogged pores, or mild acne, Hydrinity RetaXome Retinal Boost Treatment Pads have a little bit of everything and I think that makes them great for anyone at any age. Just don't overdo it. If you want vitamin A in your routine but don't want to commit to a daily or weekly retinoid or a larger routine, this is a perfect way to get it every three days without any additional steps. It's also great for travel when your skin starts acting out, and especially if you're not getting professional treatments monthly. It gives your routine that extra kick it needs to keep moving in the right direction.

    Laziza SFounder & Head Esthetician

    Retinal and Five-Acid Pads With Exosome Delivery

    Hydrinity RetaXome Retinal Boost Treatment Pads are a next-generation at-home peel treatment combining a 5-acid exfoliation system with encapsulated biomimetic exosome-retinal technology. They resurface, renew, brighten, and support healthier-looking skin while targeting texture, fine lines, congestion, and uneven tone in a single leave-on treatment used every three days. No rinsing required.

    Retinal Delivered Deeper With Exosome Technology

    Retinal is one step closer to retinoic acid than retinol, which means it can work at a lower concentration, and some people find it gentler on their skin. RetaXome Technology encapsulates the retinal inside a biomimetic exosome system that enhances its delivery and stability. Rather than relying on passive absorption, this technology actively supports penetration for more consistent renewal with every application.

    Five-Acid Blend Resurfaces and Brightens at Every Use

    RetaXome Pads combine five acids in one step. Glycolic, lactic, mandelic, salicylic, and gluconolactone each address a different aspect of skin renewal, from surface brightness and texture to pore clearing and barrier support. Used together every three days, they deliver progressive improvement across multiple concerns without needing a separate exfoliant for each.

    Clears Congestion and Targets Breakout-Related Bacteria

    Acne-prone skin benefits from exfoliation that works both at the surface and inside the pore lining. The salicylic acid in the 5-acid blend penetrates oil-filled pores to dissolve the congestion behind blackheads and breakouts, while Oligopeptide-10, a targeted antimicrobial peptide, addresses the bacteria associated with inflammatory acne. Together they suit skin managing both active congestion and aging concerns.

  • Face Reality

    Salicylic+ Serum

    4.8 out of 5.0 stars

    $34.00

    Unclogs pores and reduces both inflamed and non-inflamed acne with salicylic acid.

    This serum is an excellent choice if you are struggling with non-inflamed acne or acne rosacea. My clients see a noticeable improvement in redness, inflammation, and overall clarity. It's especially beneficial when 5% or 8% L-Mandelic Serums aren't tolerated or can work beautifully when alternated with mandelic serums for oily or combination skin types.

    Laziza SFounder & Head Esthetician

    Clear Congestion at the Source

    Face Reality Salicylic+ Serum is a leave-on exfoliating serum that helps unclog pores, smooth skin texture, and reduce non-inflamed breakouts. It is formulated with 2% salicylic acid to penetrate deep into pores where congestion and blackheads typically begin. Apply one pump over a clean face or only where breakouts appear.

    Ideal for Blackheads, Whiteheads, and Texture

    This serum is perfect for those with non-inflamed acne, rough texture, or oily skin. By breaking down excess oil and dead skin cells, it helps reduce blackheads and prevent future breakouts while gradually evening out uneven skin tone. Many clients also see a visible improvement in redness, inflammation, and clarity.

    Exfoliation You Build Up Gradually

    The formula pairs its acids with dimethyl isosorbide, which helps them reach into the pore, and butylene glycol, which draws water into your skin. It also contains denatured alcohol, which helps it dry quickly but can feel drying, so start every other night and always follow with moisturizer. For oily or combination skin, it can also be alternated with Mandelic Serum.

    The Power of Three Actives

    This serum combines salicylic acid to clear pores, lactic acid to exfoliate the surface while hydrating, and potassium azeloyl diglycinate, a water-soluble form of azelaic acid, to calm redness and help fade post-breakout marks. Together, they work on acne, congestion and uneven tone at the same time. This blend also makes it a good fit for non-inflamed acne and acne rosacea.

  • Environ

    Sebu-Clear Masque

    $58.00

    Acne mask for oily, congested, and blemish-prone skin.

    For mild to moderate acne, I would start with Sebu-Wash and this masque together. They work really well on their own, and you can also layer in AVST. These three should be enough. Do this for three months and see if you need to increase your AVST level. I would start the mask once a week, and increase to twice a week max if your skin is tolerating it well.

    Laziza SFounder & Head Esthetician

    Masque That Clears Congestion and Breakouts

    Environ Sebu-Clear Masque is a clay-based acid cream mask combining lactic acid and salicylic acid to help clear the appearance of existing breakouts, decongest pores, and remove excess surface oil. With antiseptic tea tree oil and gentle exfoliation, it leaves skin looking visibly clearer and smoother without stripping it. Use every second or third evening. Contains salicylic acid, so avoid if allergic to aspirin.

    Clears Congestion With Dual Acid Exfoliation

    This masque combines two complementary acids to address breakouts from different angles. Lactic acid gently loosens the bonds between dead skin cells at the surface, while salicylic acid penetrates into the pore lining to dissolve oil and debris. Together they help clear the appearance of congestion and existing breakouts without the harsh stripping effect of single-acid treatments.

    Absorbs Excess Oil With Clay

    Magnesium aluminum silicate, a mineral clay, helps absorb excess surface oil and impurities while the masque works. This clay base is what gives the formula its decongesting effect, drawing out buildup that contributes to breakouts and a dull, congested appearance, while the rest of the formula works to keep the skin from feeling stripped or overly dry.

    Calms and Soothes With Tea Tree Oil

    Australian tea tree oil brings antiseptic and antibacterial properties to the formula, helping to support the skin's clarity alongside the acid exfoliation. This is paired with vitamin E for additional antioxidant support, helping the skin feel calmer and more balanced during the exfoliation process rather than irritated or aggravated.

  • Environ

    Sebu-Wash Gel Cleanser

    $48.00

    Clarifying gel cleanser for excess oil, clogged pores, and acne-prone skin.

    If you're dealing with excess oil, congestion, blackheads, or breakouts, Sebu-Wash Gel Cleanser is a great daily cleanser to build a routine around. It works well for both inflamed and non-inflamed acne and is often where I recommend starting. For mild acne, it may be enough on its own. For more persistent acne, I usually pair it with Sebu-Clear Masque and AVST for better results.

    Laziza SFounder & Head Esthetician

    Mattifying Gel Cleanser for Oily and Congested Skin

    Environ Sebu-Wash Gel Cleanser is a low-foaming gel cleanser infused with tea tree oil and salicylic acid, formulated to gently remove excess surface oils, debris, and impurities without stripping the skin. It helps combat congestion and breakouts while maintaining the skin's natural moisture balance. Use morning and evening.

    Removes Excess Oil Without Stripping the Skin

    This low-foaming formula is built specifically for oily and congested skin, gently lifting away excess surface oil, dirt, and environmental debris while preserving the skin's natural acid balance. Unlike harsher acne cleansers, it does this without disrupting the moisture barrier, so skin feels refreshed and clean rather than tight or dry after rinsing.

    Clears Congestion With Salicylic Acid

    Salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid, works inside the pore to gently exfoliate and help unclog congestion that leads to breakouts. Combined with the cleanser's oil-removing surfactants, this helps support a clearer, more refined complexion over time, making it a foundational first step for anyone managing oily or breakout-prone skin.

    Calms Skin With Antiseptic Tea Tree Oil

    Australian tea tree oil brings antiseptic properties to every cleanse, helping combat the bacteria associated with breakouts while soothing the skin at the same time. This combination of clarifying and calming action is what makes Sebu-Wash suitable for problem skin without the harshness that often comes with acne-focused cleansers.

  • KrX Aesthetics

    Skin Filter Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50

    4.0 out of 5.0 stars

    $41.00

    Protects from UV, evens tone, blurs pores and controls shine.

    As someone with combination skin, when oil gets worse in the summer I am always looking for a sunscreen that does multiple things: absorbs well, controls shine, and evens out my skin. The Skin Filter Tinted Sunscreen from KRX Aesthetics does all of that, and the niacinamide in it helps with oil and tone over time. Some of my clients wear it on its own in the summer, with no foundation on top, to keep their routine lighter and less congested.

    Laziza SFounder & Head Esthetician

    Blurs Pores and Perfects Skin Tone Instantly

    KrX Skin Filter protects your skin and evens out its appearance at the same time. Iron oxides give it a sheer tint that blends into skin and evens out tone with light coverage, while silica and lauroyl lysine soften the look of pores and leave a smooth, matte finish. Wear it alone or under makeup as the last step of your morning routine.

    Brightens and Evens Skin Tone Over Time

    Beyond the instant blurring effect, KrX Skin Filter contains niacinamide, which helps refine the look of pores, regulate oil and even out skin tone with consistent daily use. Adenosine helps smooth the look of fine lines, and peach, pear and banana fruit extracts round out the formula. Your skin gets daily sun protection and gradual tone support in one step.

    Comfortable Enough to Wear Every Day

    KrX Skin Filter absorbs quickly, dries to a matte finish without feeling tight and layers under makeup without pilling. It is non-comedogenic and suits most skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin. It contains vanilla fruit extract, which means it is not fragrance-free. Apply it generously after moisturizer and serums, blending evenly across your face and neck.

    Protects Against UV Damage That Causes Premature Aging

    UV exposure is the single biggest driver of premature skin aging, responsible for fine lines, discoloration, and loss of firmness. KRX Skin Filter provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays in a hybrid formula that stays put through daily activity. Reapply every two hours when outdoors, and after swimming or perspiring.

  • GlyMed

    Skin Resurfacing Lotion

    5.0 out of 5.0 stars

    $36.00

    A targeted acne lotion that reduces oil, bacteria, and stubborn breakouts.

    Clients with persistent acne, especially oily skin types, often do well with GlyMed Skin Resurfacing Lotion, particularly when benzoyl peroxide isn’t an option. There are not many alternatives in this situation, and this is one that works well. It helps keep pores clearer and supports consistent exfoliation when breakouts are stubborn. I also like it for oily skin during the hot summer months when congestion tends to increase. <3

    Laziza SFounder & Head Esthetician

    Targets Persistent Acne Conditions

    GlyMed Skin Resurfacing Lotion is designed to address acne that is resistant to basic treatments. The formula combines sulfur, resorcinol, and exfoliating acids to help clear congested pores and reduce acne-causing bacteria. This targeted approach supports clearer skin by addressing multiple factors that contribute to stubborn breakouts.

    Helps Regulate Oil And Bacteria

    Sulfur and resorcinol work together to suppress excess oil while helping reduce bacteria that contribute to acne formation. At the same time, exfoliating acids help loosen buildup inside the pore that can trap debris and oil. These actions help create a less favorable environment for recurring breakouts.

    Encourages Skin Renewal

    The formula promotes gentle peeling that helps remove damaged surface cells and encourages healthier skin turnover. As congestion and buildup are reduced, the skin gradually appears smoother and clearer. Supporting regular renewal can also help improve the appearance of uneven texture caused by repeated breakouts.

    Best For Oily And Acne-Prone Skin

    This treatment is particularly helpful for oily or acne-prone skin types that struggle with persistent congestion. It works well in routines focused on oil control and acne management. For individuals experiencing stubborn breakouts that have not responded to milder treatments, it offers a more targeted corrective approach.

  • SkinBetter Science

    Solo Hydrating Defense MEN

    5.0 out of 5.0 stars

    $180.00

    Once-daily moisturizer with antioxidants designed to reduce oil and protect men’s skin.

    My male clients love Solo Hydrating Defense MEN because it’s simple, just once a day in the morning. It helps keep oil and skin tone balanced while preventing ingrown hairs, and the antioxidants and peptides make it a powerful anti-aging step. It’s especially great post-shave for repairing the barrier, and you can add it at night with AlphaRet for extra anti-aging.

    Laziza SFounder & Head Esthetician

    Daily Defense for Men’s Skin

    Solo Hydrating Defense MEN is designed specifically for the unique needs of male skin, delivering a powerful blend of antioxidants, hydrators, and skin-supporting ingredients. This once-daily formula helps protect against environmental stressors like sun, pollution, and blue light while supporting a healthier, more resilient complexion.

    Improves Skin Tone and Texture

    With consistent use, this lightweight, fast-absorbing formula helps refine skin texture, minimize visible pores, and improve skin tone. It also reduces surface oiliness for a fresher, more balanced look, ideal for men who want a polished appearance without unwanted shine. Licorice root adds brightening and soothing benefits to the mix.

    Hydration Without Heaviness

    Formulated to keep skin hydrated and calm, even post-shave, this cream absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue. Soothing plant extracts help maintain comfort, while water-binding ingredients provide lasting moisture throughout the day. Ceramides help retain moisture and strengthen the skin barrier, and grape seed extract helps soothe inflammation.

    Clinically Tested Performance

    Solo Hydrating Defense MEN has been clinically tested across diverse skin types and tones, proving effective at reducing redness, balancing oil production, and improving the appearance of stressed, fatigued skin. It is an ideal one-step solution for men seeking visible results with minimal effort. Apply it in the morning after cleansing, or twice a day if you prefer.

  • Face Reality

    Soothing Clay Mask

    4.6 out of 5.0 stars

    $42.00

    Calms inflammation, clears congestion, and balances oil without stripping or drying.

    I usually do not like clay or charcoal masks because they are too drying which causes excessive oiliness afterward. But I really do like Soothing Clay Mask because it helps congestion, redness and excessive oiliness without drying out the skin. I often recommend this mask for specific areas of the skin where my clients have clogged pores or in the t-zone.

    Pro Tip: After applying this mask on the congested areas, use the HydraCalm Mask for the rest of your face/neck.

    Laziza SFounder & Head Esthetician

    Calm, Clear, and Decongest

    The Face Reality Soothing Clay Mask is a multi-tasking mask that helps calm inflammation, absorb excess oil, and gently clear pores. It is perfect for breakout-prone skin that needs relief from congestion without being stripped dry or over-sensitized. Apply it to the whole face or just to congested areas such as the T-zone.

    Ideal for Acne-Prone or Irritated Skin

    This mask is made for oily, inflamed, or acne-prone skin types. Whether you are dealing with active breakouts or feeling overly oily and sensitized, it delivers soothing support and visible clarity with consistent, regular use throughout the week. When you apply it only to congested areas, the HydraCalm Mask makes a soothing companion for the rest of your face and neck.

    Oil-Absorbing Without Overdrying

    Featuring kaolin, bentonite and illite clays with charcoal, the mask absorbs excess oil and draws out impurities, while glycerin and witch hazel water help your skin stay comfortable and calm, not tight or dry after use. The clays also help refine the appearance of pores, so congested areas look clearer.

    Weekly Reset for Clearer Skin

    Use it one to three times per week to reset your skin and support your active regimen. It layers easily into any routine and is especially helpful during flare-ups or whenever your skin feels off balance and in need of a reset. After cleansing, leave a thin, even layer on for 10 to 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.

  • Vivant

    Totaloe

    5.0 out of 5.0 stars

    $54.00

    Soothing aloe serum that calms, heals & hydrates inflamed skin.

    For clients dealing with inflamed acne, rosacea, or skin that just went through a lot, Vivant Skincare Totaloe is one of my favorite calming serums. I often recommend it after acne treatments, facials, lasers, or even sunburn when the skin needs help settling down. My clients love it, and I keep it in the treatment room all the time. Keeping it in the fridge makes it even more soothing. <3

    Laziza SFounder & Head Esthetician

    Calms Irritated And Inflamed Skin

    Vivant Totaloe is a soothing, oil-free serum designed to calm irritated or inflamed skin while restoring essential hydration. The aloe-rich formula helps relieve redness and discomfort associated with breakouts, sensitivity, or environmental stress, making skin feel calmer and more comfortable. Whole leaf aloe helps calm inflammation, and keeping it in the fridge makes it even more soothing.

    Supports Skin Repair And Barrier Recovery

    Botanical extracts and conditioning ingredients work together to help support the skin’s natural repair process. These ingredients help reinforce the skin barrier while reducing inflammation, allowing compromised skin to recover more efficiently after irritation, breakouts, or sun exposure. Niacinamide supports barrier function, while sea algae extract provides minerals and amino acids that support skin resilience.

    Hydrates Without Feeling Heavy Or Greasy

    Despite its calming benefits, the formula remains lightweight and refreshing. Hydrating ingredients help replenish moisture while maintaining a breathable, oil-free finish. Skin feels smoother, softer, and more balanced while maintaining comfortable hydration throughout the day. Apply a thin layer to clean skin and let it absorb before your next step, whenever skin feels irritated, inflamed, or overheated.

    Helpful For Sensitive And Acne-Prone Skin

    Totaloe is suitable for all skin types, especially skin that is reactive, inflamed, or experiencing breakouts. It works well as a calming serum for acne-prone or rosacea-prone skin and can also help soothe irritation after sun exposure or other environmental stressors. It is also a helpful calming step after facials, lasers, or acne-focused procedures.

  • Face Reality

    Ultra Gentle Gel Cleanser

    4.9 out of 5.0 stars

    From $14.00

    Foaming cleanser that removes impurities without over-drying. Removes makeup.

    Perfect cleanser while undergoing acne treatment program because it doesn't strip the skin and helps to soothe it. Ultra Gentle Cleanser allows your skin to better tolerate Mandelic Serum and Acne Med that are essential for successful acne treatment.

    Laziza SFounder & Head Esthetician

    Gentle Does Not Mean Basic

    Face Reality Ultra Gentle Cleanser delivers a thorough, refreshing cleanse without drying or irritating the skin. It removes excess oil, dirt, and makeup while keeping the skin barrier calm and intact. Free from harsh surfactants, it is gentle enough for daily use, morning and night, in any skincare routine.

    No Fragrance, No Fuss, No Tight Feeling

    With a fragrance-free, sulfate-free formula, this cleanser keeps your skin calm and comfortable after every wash. It is also alcohol-free, paraben-free, silicone-free, vegan, and pregnancy safe. It is the kind of dependable product you will return to again and again because it cleanses consistently without causing irritation or unwanted breakouts.

    Preps Skin for Your Active Products

    Ultra Gentle Gel Cleanser gently lifts impurities without leaving residue behind, which allows serums, exfoliants, or acne products to absorb more effectively. Its low-foaming gel texture rinses clean and thoroughly, making it easy and comfortable to use both morning and night. Cleanse for a full minute, rinse with lukewarm water, and repeat the step when you are double cleansing.

    Ideal for All Skin Types

    Designed for acne-prone, dry, or sensitive skin, this cleanser suits anyone seeking a non-stripping face wash. Witch hazel, green tea, and panthenol help soothe, tone, and hydrate as you cleanse. Whether you are in an active acne program or simply maintaining clear skin, Ultra Gentle Cleanser keeps your complexion clean, balanced, and comfortable every day.

  • GlyMed

    Ultra Hydro Gel

    $82.00

    Oil-free serum for oily, dry, dehydrated, acne-prone, reactive, and post-procedure skin.

    If your skin feels oily but also somehow tight, dehydrated, or reactive, GlyMed Plus Ultra Hydro Gel is usually one of the first serums I think about. A lot of clients think they need less hydration because they are oily, but often the skin is actually lacking water. Once the skin is properly hydrated, clients usually notice less oiliness and irritation overall. Reactive and acne prone skin alsodoes really well with this serum because the formula is minimal and very lightweight.

    Laziza SFounder & Head Esthetician

    Hydrates Deeply Without Any Heaviness or Residue

    Dehydrated skin often goes unrecognized because it can affect all skin types, including oily and combination skin that would never be described as dry. GlyMed Plus Ultra Hydro Gel delivers concentrated hyaluronic acid hydration in a texture so lightweight it feels like nothing on the skin. It absorbs completely within seconds and leaves no heaviness, greasiness, or film behind on any skin type.

    Plumps Skin and Softens Fine Lines

    When skin is adequately hydrated, it looks fuller and more cushioned, and fine lines appear less prominent. Dehydration is a common reason fine lines look deeper than they are. GlyMed Plus Ultra Hydro Gel draws water into the skin and holds it there all day, creating a visible plumping effect that softens the appearance of fine lines with consistent use.

    Hydration for Oily and Acne-Prone Skin

    Oily and acne-prone skin still needs hydration, and a hydrating serum is a light way to add it. When oily skin is dehydrated, it overproduces sebum to compensate, worsening congestion and breakouts. GlyMed Plus Ultra Hydro Gel provides the hydration oily skin needs in an oil-free, non-comedogenic formula. Alongside acne products, it adds a balancing layer of hydration.

    Soothes Irritated and Post-Procedure Skin

    Skin that is irritated, sensitized, or recovering from a professional procedure needs hydration above almost everything else. GlyMed Plus Ultra Hydro Gel is free of oils, fragrance, alcohol, dyes, parabens, and sulfates, making it a broadly appropriate hydration serum for compromised and post-procedure skin. Its minimal formula calms discomfort and supports the skin's recovery.

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