Asian woman blotting oil from face

Every skin type has a specific set of needs to keep it clear, healthy, and glowing. Oily skin, in particular, can be sensitive to different ingredients and products. If you have oily skin, one disagreeable component can make it go into an oil production overdrive and break out severely. What exactly do products for oily skin do, and what ingredients can make a difference?

Salicylic Acid

An oil-soluble beta-hydroxy acid widely used in products for oily skin, breaks down oils and curbs the production of excess sebum. It also helps exfoliate the top layer of the skin while penetrating deep within the pores to prevent clogging that can cause breakouts. It works best with blackheads and whiteheads, as well as mild acne. Despite being an acid, it can help calm inflamed, irritated skin, making it suitable even for sensitive skin types.

If your oily skin starts causing breakouts, try POND'S Bright Miracle Ultimate Acne Control Facial Foam, which has niacinamide and POND’s patented Thymo-BHA essence. Together, they reduce oil and bacteria to help eliminate acne at the root.

Hyaluronic Acid

It may not look like it, but oily skin does need lots of hydration. It needs water and moisture — not oil. It is where hyaluronic acid steps in. A hero ingredient in many skincare products, that can maintain the balance of water and natural oils in the skin. Hydrated skin keeps your pores from producing extra sebum to moisturize it. It’s especially good for oily skin because it’s non-comedogenic, which means it won’t contribute to clogged pores.

Niacinamide

is a popular ingredient in skin care because of its ability to repair and strengthen the skin’s lipid barrier with regular application. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, a strong skin barrier retains more moisture, protecting the skin against inflammation and irritation. It also helps control sebum production, evens out the skin tone, and improves pigmentation problems from acne.

Lemon Extract

A traditional home remedy for acne, lemon extract is used by almost all cultures to address breakouts and the issues that come with them, including excess oil and acne scars. It has antibacterial and antifungal properties that help heal acne, such as blackheads and whiteheads. It also contains vitamin C, which can theoretically help lighten scars. However, pure lemon juice can be too harsh on your skin, so it’s best to stick to using products that contain safe levels of the ingredient.

Eskinol Naturals Micellar Facial Wash Clear with Natural Lemon Extracts combines the cleansing power of micellar water and the healing properties of vitamin C. Ideal for oily skin, it helps control sebum production while purifying the skin. To further cleanse your skin, use Eskinol Facial Deep Cleanser Oil Control with Pure Lemon Extract. It’s enriched with vitamin A and E, this cleanser nourishes the skin while removing deep-seated dirt and oil.

Not all products for oily skin will have all these ingredients at once, but at least one of these can help do wonders for curbing oil production and clearing up acne.