Oiliness & pores
Oily skin occurs when the sebaceous glands produce more sebum than the skin needs. This can leave skin looking shiny, feeling greasy, and make pores appear larger — particularly around the nose, forehead, and chin (the T-zone). While excess oil is often seen as a problem, some sebum is essential for keeping skin healthy and hydrated.
Oiliness is largely determined by genetics, but it's also influenced by hormones (which is why it often worsens during puberty, menstruation, or times of stress), humidity, and using the wrong skincare products. Pores appear larger when they're clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and debris. They don't actually open and close, but keeping them clear makes them look significantly smaller.
Anyone can have oily skin, but it's more common in younger people and those with naturally darker skin tones, which tend to have more active sebaceous glands. Oiliness can also develop from over-cleansing or using products that strip the skin, triggering the skin to overproduce oil as a response.
Best Ingredients for Oiliness & Pores
The goal is to regulate oil production, keep pores clear, and maintain a healthy skin barrier. Not to strip the skin of all moisture, which can make oiliness worse.
Niacinamide
One of the best ingredients for oily skin. Niacinamide regulates sebum production, visibly minimises pores, and strengthens the skin barrier. It's well-tolerated and can be used morning and evening.
Browse ProductsBHAs / Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is oil-soluble, meaning it can penetrate into pores to dissolve the buildup of oil and dead skin cells that make pores appear enlarged. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, making it great for oily, breakout-prone skin. Use 2–3 times a week in the evening.
Browse ProductsRetinol / Vitamin A
Retinol boosts cell turnover and regulates sebaceous gland activity over time, helping to reduce oiliness and refine the look of pores with consistent use. Use in the evening on alternating nights to BHAs.
Browse ProductsLightweight Moisturiser
Skipping moisturiser is one of the most common mistakes for oily skin : without it, skin overcompensates by producing more oil. Look for lightweight, oil-free, or gel formulas that hydrate without adding heaviness.
Browse ProductsSunscreen
UV damage enlarges pores and increases oil production over time. Choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic SPF that won't clog pores or add unwanted shine. There are plenty of mattifying options that work well for oily skin.
Browse ProductsOiliness & Enlarged Pores
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