9 Best Oil Control Hacks for Acne-Prone Skin (2025 Guide)

Discover 9 powerful oil control hacks for acne-prone skin. Learn how to reduce shine, prevent breakouts, and keep your skin clear with simple daily tips.

Sep 11, 2025 0 24

9 Best Oil Control Hacks for Acne-Prone Skin (2025 Guide)

Struggling with oily, acne-prone skin that just won’t calm down? You’re not alone. Excess oil production (sebum) can clog pores, trigger frequent breakouts, and leave your skin looking shiny throughout the day. While genetics, hormones, and environmental factors play a major role, the right skincare routine and simple remedies can help you control oil, reduce acne, and achieve clearer, healthier-looking skin.

This guide explains the best skincare routine for oily, acne-prone skin, including expert tips, home remedies, and the right products to keep your skin balanced.

How to control oily skin

The following hacks are the simplest for controlling oily skin

1. Cleanse Your Skin Twice a Day

Washing your face morning and night is essential. Cleansing removes excess oil, dirt, sweat, and dead skin cells that clog pores.

For oily skin, look for cleansers that are:

Non-comedogenic: Won’t clog pores.
Non-acnegenic: Won’t worsen breakouts.
Gentle and non-irritating
Foaming-based: More effective at removing oil than creamy cleansers

Pro Tip: Don’t over-wash or scrub harshly—it can strip your skin, causing even more oil production.

2. Use an Astringent (Toner)

Astringents help remove leftover oil and tighten pores. Common options include:

Witch hazel (natural and effective for acne-prone skin)
Salicylic acid (helps unclog pores and reduce breakouts)
Citric acid (brightens and controls oil)

Avoid alcohol-based astringents if you have sensitive or rosacea-prone skin.

3. Moisturize (Yes, Even Oily Skin Needs It)

Oily skin still needs hydration. Skipping moisturizer can actually make your glands produce more oil.

Choose moisturizers that are:

Oil-free
Non-comedogenic
Lightweight, gel-based (with ingredients like dimethicone or glycerin)

These lock in moisture without making your skin greasy.

4. Exfoliate Weekly

Exfoliation removes dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and smooths texture.

For oily skin, chemical exfoliants are better than harsh scrubs. Look for:

Salicylic acid
Glycolic acid
Mild at-home peels

If you have darker skin, use gentle formulas to prevent hyperpigmentation.

5. Always Wear Sunscreen

While the sun may temporarily dry pimples, it triggers more oil production later. Daily SPF also protects against dark spots and acne scars.

Also See: 7 Best Toners for Oily Skin (2025): Dermatologist Picks for a Fresh, Oil-Free Glow

Opt for:

Oil-free
Non-comedogenic
Gel-based SPF moisturizers

6. Watch Your Diet

Food can impact oily and acne-prone skin. Studies suggest:

Low-glycemic diets (less sugar/refined carbs) = fewer breakouts
Healthy fats (omega-3s from fish, nuts, seeds) = reduced inflammation
Dairy may worsen acne in some people.

7. Blot Excess Oil

Blotting papers are a quick fix for shine. Gently press (don’t rub) to absorb oil during the day. Use sparingly to avoid over-drying.

8. Try Natural Remedies

Some natural ingredients may calm oily, acne-prone skin:

Honey (antibacterial)
Aloe vera (soothes inflammation)
Oatmeal (absorbs oil, reduces redness)
Clay masks (control shine and purify pores)
Jojoba oil (balances sebum production)

9. Use Oil-Free Skincare & Makeup

Check labels for oil-free and water-based products, including:

Moisturizers
Sunscreens
Makeup (foundations, powders)
Prescription acne gels (instead of heavy creams)

This prevents adding extra grease to your skin.

Final Thoughts

Managing oily, acne-prone skin takes patience and consistency. The right routine, gentle cleansing, toning, moisturizing, exfoliating, sun protection, and smart product choices can help keep oil under control.

If you’ve tried these tips and still struggle with stubborn breakouts, consider consulting a dermatologist for more effective treatment options.