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Have no fear, your skin-care fairy godmother is here.

Skincare can be overwhelming, with so many steps and routines to follow, especially with the rise of Korean skincare — you probably wonder what you really need to buy. Before you *add to cart,* make sure you know what skincare needs you want to address. Do you have a shiny T-zone? Do you have enlarged pores? Does your skin get greasy even after cleansing? If the answer is yes, then you have oily skin. 

The goal with oily skin is to find a balance between acne control, oil control, clear pores, and a moisturized and hydrated skin barrier for a natural glow (you can have oily skin that's still dehydrated). The more you overly strip your skin, the more it fights back by producing more oil, dumping you back at square one. Psst, all the products featured are non-comedogenic, which means they won’t clog your pores. 

We cover seven product categories here, but if you're not sure where to start, go with the basics: cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. There’s no need to worry about a more complicated routine right away, and we feature choices for each that help fit a variety of oily skin needs. 

Feeling ready to expand and introduce more into your routine? We've got you covered, too. First up, face masks, which you'd use on an occasional basis when you need a reset or relaxation. Clay is your best friend for soaking up that shine while still leaving skin nice and soft. Exfoliation can also help remove impurities, dead skin cells, and unclog stubborn blackheads. 

Next, you'll find toners and essences: thinner, liquid, often water-based products that quickly absorb into your skin after cleansing to help gently exfoliate, add extra hydration, or help mattify. Think of them as a primer for the other layers of product, prepping the skin by softening it for the next optional step: serums and other actives. 

Serums are more potent and fast-absorbing, and often feature active ingredients to really target specific skin needs. Niacinamide, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid are a few of the superstars that help boost hydration, reduce oil production, and strengthen the skin barrier. 

Skincare is not one-size-fits-all, so check out these oily-skin-approved options to find what might work for you *and* your budget. Where relevant, we provided the price per ounce, so you know what's really cheaper. Plug in your skincare fridge — it’s time to stock up! 

Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil because, yes, even oily skin peeps can benefit from an oil cleanser to help break down all the makeup, dirt, and excess sebum that gets trapped in your pores. It's formulated with six plant-based oils and Madagascar Centella extract. Apply to *dry skin* to gently loosen up everything for a deeper clean you can actually see. Follow up with a water-based cleanser to really wipe away all that gunk for clean, soft, radiant skin. 

Promising review: "I struggled with oily skin and hormonal breakouts. I looked into the Korean skincare regimen with double cleansing with an oil-based cleanser followed by a water-based cleanser. This was the very first Korean skincare product I purchased. I didn't realize how much I had been missing out. The theory that oil attracts oil totally works, as this oil cleanser has helped do wonders for my skin. I do two pumps on DRY skin and work that in for about a minute. Wet hands a little bit, which turns the oil into a milky emulsion that easily washes away. Follow up with a water-based cleanser. The end result is shiny, smooth, clean skin that is now ready to soak up your favorite products and a smooth base to wear your makeup over. I use this every night and would recommend it to anyone over and over." — amr2393 

Krave Beauty Matcha Hemp Hydrating Cleanser for a deep clean that doesn't leave you feeling like you need pounds of moisturizer after. This is full of matcha, hemp seed oil, and sodium PCA to help soothe and hydrate while locking in moisture to support your skin's barrier. It'll clean off any excess oil while still leaving a natural glow.

Promising review: "I want to start off by saying I have repurchased this face wash over 20 times. That is actual facts, no exaggeration. If that doesn't tell you I love it, I don't know how else to prove it. It doesn't dry the skin out at all. It leaves it clean, BUT hydrated. I double cleanse with this to remove my sunscreen and foundation at night and use it sometimes in the morning. If you are looking for an everyday, gentle cleanser that won't strip the face, definitely, definitely check this one out. You won't regret your purchase. By far one of the best products the brand has launched, and I will continue to repurchase it"—Lydia 

The Inkey List Salicylic Acid Cleanser that works as a daily exfoliant to help clear breakouts and leave your pores so unclogged you just might feel a breeze go through them. The salicylic acid tackles blackheads, while zinc reduces excess oil so you can feel smooth with no shine. It's also formulated with allantoin to soothe the skin, making this gentle enough for everyday use.

Promising reviews: "This cleanser is not hydrating, but it is perfect if you have really oily skin and has helped clean out my blackheads and minimized my pores. The best facial cleanser ever and leaves your skin so clean." —Darlene 

"Literally the best cleanser I’ve ever used. You can see the dirt come out of your pores. If you’re like me and experience those annoying black dots on your nose, this pulls it right out. I put on my dry skin and rub it around in circles for a couple of minutes, and then wash it off with water. My skin has never felt this smooth. And so inexpensive!" —Ashley

Cetaphil Daily Face Cleanser, an affordable option that still leaves your skin squeaky clean. It's made to defend your skin from five skin sensitivities: dryness, roughness, irritation, tightness, and a weakened barrier. Niacinamide, glycerin, and panthenol help soften your skin while protecting your natural radiance. Reviewers love how gentle it is, while still removing any impurities. For almost the same amount as a Chipotle burrito — this is a win. 

Promising review: "The cleanser is very gentle yet effective — it removes oil, makeup, and dirt without leaving my skin feeling dry or tight. I have sensitive, combination-to-oily skin, and this formula works perfectly for me. It foams nicely, is soap-free, and doesn't have any strong fragrance, which I really appreciate. It also hasn't caused me any breakouts or irritation... I love that it's hypoallergenic and dermatologist-recommended — it gives me confidence that it's good for my skin. If you're looking for a reliable, gentle cleanser that keeps your skin clean and balanced, I highly recommend this one. I'll definitely keep buying it!" —Spoorthi B K 

Biodance Hydro Cera-nol Real Deep Mask for an overnight transformation as you sleep. It's made with a powerful blend of ceramides, hyaluronic acid, collagen, and probiotics to give your skin extra hydration, while helping to even out texture and the appearance of pores. You'll feel a difference as it melts into your skin! 

Promising review: "They feel so hydrating from the moment you apply them. The hydrogel texture is refreshing and fits perfectly to the face without slipping. After using it overnight, my skin feels noticeably smoother and more radiant. It also helps minimize the appearance of pores and provides a pleasant feeling of elasticity. It has no strange odor. Each pack comes with plenty of serum, and it feels like a mini spa treatment every time I use it. I recommend it to anyone who wants soft, hydrated, and radiant skin!" —Danisleydi Rodriguez 

Innisfree Super Volcanic Clay Mask made with AHA and literal volcanic clusters to absorb oil, remove dead skin cells, and help reduce pore size for skin oh-so-soft, you'll think magic was involved. Clay is a must for mattifying those oily T-zones and clogged pores without leaving that nasty tight feeling. You'll instantly feel lighter and more refreshed. 

Promising review: "The Innisfree Volcanic Pore Clay Mask is a game-changer! I've been using it for a few weeks, and it's quickly become a favorite in my routine. The mask has a smooth, creamy texture that's easy to apply, and once it dries, my skin feels deeply cleansed and refreshed — without any tightness. It really helps clear out my pores and control excess oil, leaving my skin soft and matte. I've noticed a reduction in blackheads and congestion, and it's perfect for my oily/combination skin. If you're looking for a mask that deeply purifies and clears your skin, this is definitely worth trying!" —Amazon Customer 

Personal Day Even Keel Resurfacing Peel — it'll give you exfoliation without feeling like your face is on fire (we've all been betrayed once). This salicylic acid treatment fights those dead skin cells, excess oils, and dirt that can cause blackheads and pesky pimples. It does have a tiny tingle, but that just means it's working. 

Promising review: "This is the first peel product I've used that doesn't irritate my skin or leave lasting redness. My skin feels smooth, and I feel like it is really getting into my pores. Would recommend to anyone, especially if you have sensitive skin." —Lauren F.

Get it from Personal Day or Ulta for $34. 

Beauty by Joseon Ginseng Essence Water, which is basically a mix of toner, moisturizer, and a traditional essence all in one. This helps control sebum to minimize shine but still hydrates to give your skin a natural glow. Ginseng is a popular ingredient in K-beauty for nurturing the skin and locking in moisture. It also has BHA and niacinamide to gently exfoliate while improving your skin's elasticity.

Promising review: "I love this toner! I've gotten more into Korean skincare, and since this brand is easy to get, I thought I would try this toner. My skincare is pretty minimalist, so I'm picky with my products. I really enjoy how liquidy it is and yet, so moisturizing. It also helps with my sensitive skin. I have combination skin, with an oily t-zone. It absorbs quickly, and I love the ingredients because they help with moisture levels, breakouts, and anti-aging. I sometimes even spray it throughout the day. Highly recommend!" —Jari  

Clé de Peau Beauté Essential Refining Essence if you want instant mattifying without damaging your skin's barrier. This instantly absorbs oil while still actively hydrating and smoothing. It is a unique biphase formula with ingredients such as Japanese pearl extract and golden silk essence to protect your skin from natural stressors, including strong UV rays. It even has a refreshing cooling sensation that'll have you and your skin saying, "ahhhh."

Promising review: "I've been using this product for over five years, and it never disappoints me. This refining essence smooths out the surface of my skin, and I feel like my pores are less visible for sure! Such a good product!" —Daisy

Get it from Clé de Peau or Nordstrom for $110. 

Cosrx Snail Mucin Repairing Essence formulated with 96.3% snail secretion filtrate — I know it sounds weird, but trust. Reviewers love the lightweight formula that is easy to pair with other products. It deeply hydrates without feeling like you're wearing a mask. Who knew the answer to glowing skin was SNAILS?! 

Promising Review: "I have used this product for about three years or so now, and I believe it to be effective. I grew up with bad acne, and adding this to my skin care routine has made me go without acne since almost day one. I have oily-prone skin, and this does not add to the oil but personally makes my skin smooth and look healthier. I love it!" —Katelyn Shealy 

Isntree Chestnut BHA 0.9% Clear Toner to gently exfoliate any dead skin cells and help smooth your skin's texture. Exfoliating sounds like it will be harsh or damaging, but this is rich with tannins (found in chestnut shells) and soothing botanical ingredients like willow bark to help tighten pores, balance oil production, and leave your skin hydrated. Simply pat into your skin after cleansing. 

Promising reviews: "This worked great! The bottle is larger than originally expected, but it was a pleasant surprise! It reduced my redness in a little over a week, and kept reducing it even when I took a break from using it! It's worked a lot better than most products I've tried! The BHA works wonders for my skin!! The BHA helped get rid of skin cell buildup on my T-zone. I definitely recommend if you also have oily, sensitive, and acne-prone skin!" —Robin L B 

Anua Heartleaf 77 Soothing Toner that reviewers love for its calming and refreshing effect. Heartleaf and hyaluronic acid combine to help hydrate and soothe irritated skin, so you can go back to feeling your best with a dewy glow. It's perfect for year-round use, but it's especially great for refreshing your skin after hours in the sun during the warmer months.

Promising review: "I normally don't buy skincare products that are trending on the internet, but this product is money well spent. I've been using this toner for over a month now, and I can guarantee that my skin has a healthy glow, my redness has decreased, and my skin is hydrated. I have oily/acne-prone skin, and this toner does a great job keeping my face clear, matte, but giving a natural glow. I definitely recommend this to people who are starting their skincare journey and leaning towards Korean skincare." —Gabrielle Briar 

Mixsoon Centella Asiatica Toner if you are stuck between needing more moisturizer and wanting to strip your skin until it's matte — trust, oily skin still needs hydration! This lightweight formula creates a barrier to lock in moisture for up to 24 hours. No extra oils and creams needed for a shine that you actually want. 

Promising review: "I absolutely love the Mixsoon Centella Asiatica Toner! It has a simple, minimalistic design that looks clean and elegant on my vanity. More importantly, the formula is incredibly gentle on my skin. I have sensitive and sometimes irritated skin, and this toner really helps calm redness and soothe breakouts. It feels like water — light and refreshing — yet it deeply hydrates without leaving any sticky residue. I use it both in the morning and evening, either with a cotton pad or by patting it directly into my skin. The ingredient list is clean, and I appreciate that it focuses on centella asiatica, which is known for its calming and healing properties. After a couple of weeks, my skin looks smoother, feels softer, and is noticeably less irritated. Highly recommend if you’re looking for a minimalist, effective toner that’s perfect for sensitive or acne-prone skin!" —Guzel

Ole Henriksen Detox Drops 2% Salicylic Acid Toner for an introduction into exfoliation that you can easily add to your daily routine. This gently unclogs pores, targets blemishes, and, with the help of cucumber and juniper berry, helps nourish your skin. It also helps reduce shine without that tight, stripped feeling like you've been stuck in the desert. 

Promising review: "I started using the Ole Henriksen Detox Drops toner and it's been a nice addition to my routine. It feels super lightweight and refreshing on the skin, not heavy or sticky like some acne products. With the 2% salicylic acid, it helps keep my pores clear and breakouts under control, but it still feels gentle enough to use regularly. I also like that it doesn't strip my skin, so I get that clean, balanced feel without the dryness. Over time, it's made my skin look smoother and less congested." —Kishan

Get it from Ole Henriksen, Sephora, or Ulta for $24. 

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 serum (with Ceramides) — this is liquid gold in a small bottle that is sure to give your skin that extra hydration boost. Your skin can still be dehydrated even if it's producing extra oil, so it's important to protect your skin's moisture barrier. Vitamin B5 and ceramides work together to produce fatty acids and lock in water for plump, dewy skin that feels smooth all day. 

Promising review: "This serum is amazing for hydration! It makes my skin feel soft, plump, and refreshed. It absorbs quickly and layers well under moisturizer and makeup. Great value for the price — I'll definitely repurchase" —Moranzo 

Get a one-ounce bottle from The Ordinary, Sephora, or Amazon for $9.90.  

Good Molecules Niacinamide Serum for brighter skin with just a few drops. Niacinamide is important for reducing sebum production, and this formula will help without drying you out in the process. It even helps unclog pores, and some reviewers say they saw improvements in their skin's overall texture. 

Promising review: "It took a few months to really see the difference this made. It has significantly reduced the red bumps that were prominent under my eyes and next to my nose. It has slightly reduced overall skin redness {and} reduced flare ups of cystic acne. Overall, really improved skin texture. If I stop using it, the bumps and cystic pimples start coming back. I have oily skin; I apply this once a day, usually in the morning, followed by gel moisturizer with aloe." —Nikki

Get a one-ounce bottle from Good Molecules or Ulta for $6 or Amazon for $5.97  

Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant with over 6,000 5-star reviews — this is the holy grail. This leave-on exfoliant helps remove dead skin cells, minimizes the appearance of pores, unclogs blackheads, and still leaves your skin bright. There is really little this bad boy can't do.

Promising review: "I’ve struggled for YEARS with acne-prone, oily skin, trying product after product with little to no success — until I found this gem! 🌟 From the first few uses, I noticed my skin felt smoother and less congested, and within a couple of weeks, my breakouts were visibly fewer, and my pores looked cleaner and smaller. This exfoliant has truly been a miracle for my skin — it unclogs pores, controls oil, and helps keep future acne at bay. My complexion now looks clearer, calmer, and more balanced than it has in such a long time. I also love that it’s lightweight and absorbs beautifully without feeling sticky or harsh. Highly recommend to anyone with oily, acne-prone skin! 💛✨" —Vicious Vegan 

Get a one-ounce bottle from Amazon for $15. 

Dr.Althea Vitamin C Boosting Serum that'll help reduce excess oil while brightening your skin with just a few drops. This is full of centella asiatica and eight (!!) types of hyaluronic acid to give your skin deep hydration and a soothing effect that'll give you an extra pep in your step. 

Promising review: "I’ve been using the Dr. Althea Vitamin C Boosting Serum every day, and it has quickly become one of my favorite products. 💫 The texture is slightly thick, but it absorbs very quickly and doesn’t leave any greasy feeling — even oily skin types can use it perfectly. ✨ It doesn’t irritate my skin like other vitamin C serums and gives my face a natural, healthy glow. It also helps fade dark spots and even out the skin tone over time. 🌸 My skin looks smoother, brighter, and more radiant every day. Perfect for anyone looking for an effective yet gentle daily vitamin C serum.🌷" —Diana Y A

Get a one-ounce bottle from Dr.Althea or Ulta for $23.90. 

Differin Acne Treatment Gel, a topical retinoid that targets acne right at the source to clear blemishes and help stop future breakouts. Adapalene regulates skin cell turnover to keep pores from clogging, while also helping to reduce redness. This does have a kick to it, so start off slowly by applying just a couple of times a week, then increase from there.  

Read more about adapalene, acne, and non-prescription acne treatments at Mayo Clinic. 

BuzzFeed writer, Melanie Aman says: "I use Differin, and it's great, but I must warn you: It is strong. Unfortunately, I wrecked my skin the first few weeks after buying it because I applied it way too often and paired it with chemical exfoliators and a really drying face wash. Once I cut back my application to one to two times per week and switched to gentler cleansers, my skin flourished. The annoying bumps on my forehead (the ones that aren't acne but are literally just tiny little bumps) disappeared over time, my temples stopped breaking out, and my acne scars lightened. If you're dipping your toes in the Differin pool, it's not a bad idea to check with your dermatologist before starting!" 

Promising review: "I've used this product for about two months now, and not only does my skin rarely have breakouts, but also other people are telling me how smooth and good my skin looks. I've always had moderate adult acne, and I cannot recommend this product enough. It's not a quick-acting gel; it takes weeks to see results, but it's worth it!" —Leann M Smith

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Oil-Free Moisturizer with a gel like formula to give your skin the moisture it needs without the extra weight that might clog pores — or worse, leave you feeling greasy. It's infused with desert plant extract and glacial glycoprotein that helps condition the skin for long-lasting hydration. It also has a cooling effect to soothe and refresh, so you'll want to apply it all day long. 

Promising review: "I wanted to try out this moisturizer now because my skin tends to be very oily and sweaty in the summer, and my regular moisturizer feels a bit heavy during these warmer months. This formula is super lightweight, and a little bit goes a long way! I like that it has that very slight cooling effect when I put it on, and it doesn’t feel heavy on my skin. I definitely recommend this for combination and oily skin!" —Bcos0154 

Neutrogena Daily Facial Moisturizer with Vitamin E because skin care doesn't always need to break the bank. This is jam-packed with cica, vitamin B5, and niacinamide to nurture your skin and keep it hydrated without clogging your pores. Reviewers also love how lightweight and gentle it is on the skin for everyday wear. 

Promising review: "This is by far the best day moisturizer I’ve ever found. I have very sensitive skin and everything either clogs my pores or irritates my skin, and this moisturizer is very gentle and very hydrating. The price point is also great and I’m really glad I finally found a moisturizer that works for me" —ce

Murad Superactive Moisturizer SPF 50 for a 3-in-1 powerhouse that gives you shine-free hydration, a mattifying finish, and all-day sun protection. It even has salicylic acid to refine pores and smooth texture. There's no need for a 30-step routine when this has you covered. 

Promising review: "Every sunscreen I try either pills under my makeup or makes my face look like an oil slick. The old formula used to pill under my makeup, but this one is much better. It doesn't pill, no white cast, and doesn't make my face look greasy and oily. Check, check, and check. I love Murad." —Kathryn

Shiseido Urban Environment Oil-Free Sunscreen SPF 42 because sun protection is worth the splurge. This lightweight, oil-free formula is full of ingredients like hyaluronic acid to lock in needed moisture, while still mattifying and controlling excess oil. 

Promising review: "This is an excellent sunscreen. It leaves your skin feeling moisturized but not oily and has an excellent feel to it. It is wonderful. I am acne-prone, and it does not clog pores; it feels breathable on the skin and does not leave any cast. It makes your skin look prettier, also as it kind of plumps and blurs pores and makes your skin overall glowy and beautiful." —Nicole H.  

Get a one-ounce bottle from Amazon for $39.

Supergoop! Mineral Mattescreen (SPF 40) that has a blendable tint because we will not be caught with a white cast this summer — no ma'am! You'll feel so protected, smooth, and mattified, you might just skip the makeup. If you do choose to do a little glam, this also doubles as a makeup-gripping primer. 

Promising review: "I am in love with this sunscreen, it's definitely worth the price if this is the right sunscreen for you. I have extremely oily and sensitive skin that reddens with every sunscreen out there, including the ones made for oily skin by brands like La Roche-Posay. I use this one over serums that can sometimes leave my face a bit shiny and it mattifies without drying. I would recommend reapplying if you are going to be under the sun for a while, but reapplying for me just means I get mattified again, which is something that is extremely hard for me to get. If you've ever used the Porefessional by Benefit, that's the kind of what the texture of this sunscreen feels like. I can't recommend it enough, would buy in bulk if I could." —Petunia Conejos 

Eucerin Sun Clear Skin SPF 50 — it's formulated with five antioxidants and oil-absorbing minerals for an actual matte finish, unlike other thick sunscreens that leave you feeling like a glazed donut. Reviewers love how lightweight and non-greasy it is, especially when worn under makeup. 

Promising review: "I absolutely love this Eucerin Clear Skin SPF 50 sunscreen! It feels very lightweight, absorbs quickly, and doesn’t leave my skin greasy or shiny. I have oily, acne-prone skin, and this sunscreen does NOT cause breakouts at all. It works great under makeup and keeps my skin protected all day. I also like that it’s fragrance-free and gentle. Definitely a must-have for daily use!" —Reina Canizales 

* Skincare Products With Results That’ll Have You Saying, “Feel How Soft My Skin Is”

* Game-Changing Korean Skincare Tips You're Totally Missing Out On

* Popular Skincare Products That Won’t Cost An Arm And A Leg

* Skincare Products For Those Issues You Didn’t Even Know Had Legit Solutions

* Products That Skincare Lovers Buy Again And Again, So Maybe You Should Too

* Skincare Products That'll Give Your Dry Skin The Hydration It Craves

* Here Are 33 Skincare Products If Your Budget Is $20 Per Item And That’s It

BuzzFeed Shopping is service journalism first: our writers and editors spend all day shopping so you don’t have to, vetting products, fact-checking brand claims, and surfacing what actually helps in real life. We center readers over revenue, recommend products with authenticity (using real experiences, not ad-speak), and reflect our diverse audience, inclusive of a variety of price points, people, and needs. We cut through fake deals, favor useful info over glossy fluff, and recommend both budget and splurge options with context so you can decide what’s right for you — and still have a little fun along the way.

Mariel Guzman is a resident writer on the Buzzfeed Shopping team whose love for shopping (and doomscrolling on TikTok) helps her curate lists of the most trending lifestyle, home, beauty, and fashion products.