Oily skin is a common concern, and while some natural oil (sebum) is essential for maintaining skin hydration, excessive oil production can lead to clogged pores, breakouts, and persistent acne. Many people with oily skin struggle to keep their complexion balanced, too much oil leads to shine, while harsh skincare products can strip the skin and trigger even more oil production as a reaction.
The connection between oily skin and acne lies in overactive sebaceous glands, which produce excess sebum that mixes with dead skin cells and bacteria, clogging pores and creating the perfect environment for pimples to form. The good news? With the right skincare routine and targeted treatments, you can manage oiliness while keeping breakouts under control.
In this guide, we’ll explore the causes of oily and acne-prone skin and share effective solutions to help you achieve a healthier, clearer complexion.
What Causes Oily & Acne-Prone Skin?
Several factors contribute to oily and acne-prone skin, many of which are influenced by genetics, lifestyle, and skincare habits. Understanding these triggers can help you manage oil production and prevent breakouts more effectively.
1. Genetics & Hormonal Changes
Your skin type is often determined by genetics. If your parents have oily skin, you’re more likely to inherit overactive sebaceous glands. Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, or menstrual cycles can increase sebum production, leading to frequent breakouts.
2. Diet & Lifestyle Factors
Certain foods, especially high-glycaemic foods like sugary snacks, white bread, and dairy, can trigger oil production and inflammation, making acne worse. Stress can also play a role—when stressed, the body produces more cortisol, which stimulates oil glands and can lead to breakouts.
3. Incorrect Skincare Routine
Using harsh cleansers or over-washing your face can strip the skin of its natural oils, forcing it to produce even more sebum to compensate. Skipping moisturiser can also backfire, as dehydrated skin sends signals to the sebaceous glands to increase oil production, worsening the problem.
4. Environmental Factors
Hot, humid climates often cause the skin to produce more oil, while pollution can contribute to clogged pores. Those who frequently wear makeup without properly cleansing at night may also experience worsened acne due to product buildup.
How Can You Manage Oily Skin Without Causing More Acne?
Keeping oily and acne-prone skin balanced requires a consistent routine that removes excess oil without over-drying the skin. Here’s how you can achieve that balance:
1. Use a Gentle, Oil-Control Cleanser
Cleansing twice daily with a mild, non-comedogenic cleanser helps remove dirt, oil, and bacteria without disrupting the skin’s natural barrier. Foaming or gel-based cleansers with ingredients like salicylic acid or tea tree oil can help control oiliness while preventing acne. Detox Face Wash with Activated Charcoal & Lactic Acid is perfect for deeply cleansing pores and removing impurities.
2. Exfoliate Regularly (But Not Too Often!)
Exfoliation removes dead skin cells and helps prevent clogged pores, but over-exfoliating can irritate the skin and cause more breakouts. Using a chemical exfoliant like salicylic acid (BHA) or glycolic acid (AHA) 2-3 times per week can help keep skin clear.
3. Hydrate with an Oil-Free Moisturiser
Even oily skin needs hydration. Opt for a lightweight, non-greasy moisturiser with hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to regulate oil production. A great option is the Night Fluid with Hyaluronic Acid, Peptides & Niacinamide, which provides deep hydration without clogging pores.
4. Always Wear Sunscreen
Sun exposure can cause oil imbalance and post-acne marks. A lightweight SPF like Melabel Sun Cream SPF 50 offers protection without making the skin greasy.
5. Avoid Touching Your Face
Touching your face throughout the day can transfer dirt and bacteria, leading to breakouts. Keep your hands off your skin and clean your phone screen regularly to prevent acne-causing bacteria from spreading.
Best Skincare Ingredients for Oily & Acne-Prone Skin
Using the right ingredients can make a significant difference in controlling oil and preventing acne. Here are some of the best skincare ingredients to look for in your products:
1. Salicylic Acid
A powerful BHA that deeply cleanses pores, reduces breakouts, and controls oil. Found in Acne Cleansing Foam, it’s an essential step for acne-prone skin.
2. Niacinamide
A form of Vitamin B3 that regulates sebum production, reduces inflammation, and helps to strengthen the skin barrier.
3. Azelaic Acid
Fights acne-causing bacteria while brightening the skin. Try the Triple-Action Cream with Retinol & Azelaic Acid for targeted acne control.
4. Hyaluronic Acid
A lightweight hydrator that replenishes moisture without making the skin greasy, keeping oil production under control.
5. Clay & Charcoal
Both ingredients help absorb excess oil, detoxify the skin, and reduce the appearance of enlarged pores. Clay masks are great weekly treatments for oily skin.
Top Treatments for Acne-Prone Skin: What Works?
When dealing with persistent acne, a combination of skincare treatments, lifestyle adjustments, and professional care may be necessary. Here are the best options:
1. Over-the-Counter Treatments
Products containing benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, and salicylic acid can help reduce breakouts and control oil production.
2. Prescription Medications
For moderate to severe acne, dermatologists may prescribe topical retinoids, antibiotics, or hormonal treatments (such as birth control pills) to help regulate sebum production.
3. Professional Treatments
Dermatological procedures like chemical peels, laser therapy, and extractions can improve stubborn acne and prevent future breakouts.
4. Lifestyle Adjustments
Eating a balanced diet, drinking enough water, reducing stress, and maintaining a consistent skincare routine can all contribute to clearer skin over time.
Achieve Healthy, Balanced Skin with BioTrade
Managing oily and acne-prone skin requires a consistent, well-balanced skincare routine with the right ingredients and treatments. By understanding what causes excess oil production and breakouts, you can make informed choices to keep your skin healthy, hydrated, and blemish-free.
If you’re looking for targeted skincare solutions, explore Biotrade’s range of products for oily & acne-prone skin to find the right match for your skin type. With the right approach, you can enjoy a clearer, more balanced complexion every day.