How to Stop Oily Skin | Expert Routine and Ingredients
Oily skin can be frustrating, especially when the shine returns within hours. But instead of reaching for harsh, drying products, it is worth understanding what is really behind excess oil production and how to support your skin rather than strip it.
In this guide we explore the best ingredients to look for, the ideal skincare routine for oily skin, and the common mistakes to avoid if you want to achieve long-term clarity and control.
Why Do You Have Oily Skin?
Oily skin is caused by an overproduction of sebum, your skin’s natural oil. This is not necessarily a bad thing (sebum is essential for barrier health), but too much can lead to congestion, shine and breakouts.
- Genetics
- Hormonal shifts such as puberty, menstruation or stress
- Over-cleansing or exfoliating
- Using the wrong products, particularly drying or fragranced ones
- Environmental factors like heat or humidity
“Oily skin is often the result of your skin trying to protect itself,” explains Dr Anita Sturnham. “If your routine is too harsh or drying, it can send your sebaceous glands into overdrive. The key is to balance, not battle.”
How to Stop Oily Skin: Practical Everyday Tips
Getting oily skin under control starts with the right ingredients and consistent care.
Cleanse Gently, Twice Daily
Use a non-stripping cleanser that clears away excess oil without damaging your barrier. Decree’s Light Cleanse is ideal for morning use, while Deep Cleanse helps remove debris and excess oil in the evening with pore-purifying clays and gentle acids.
Hydrate with the Right Ingredients
Dehydrated skin can actually produce more oil in response to imbalance. Look for humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin to maintain hydration without greasiness.
Introduce Niacinamide
This multi-tasking vitamin (B3) helps regulate sebum production and tighten the look of pores. It also soothes inflammation and supports barrier function. Decree’s Protect Elixir contains 2% niacinamide alongside stabilised vitamin C, ferulic acid and panthenol for antioxidant-rich protection.
Use Oil-Safe Exfoliation
Exfoliate once or twice weekly with ingredients like salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that helps dissolve excess oil and unclog pores. Decree’s Airbrushing Acid combines BHAs and AHAs for a balanced exfoliating treatment.
Moisturise- Yes, Even Oily Skin Needs It
Lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturisers like Peptide Emollient Veil or Veil + help maintain skin balance and hydration without feeling heavy or clogging pores.
Consider a Retinoid at Night
Retinol and retinoids help regulate skin cell turnover and control oil. Decree’s Treat Tincture uses a stabilised third-generation retinoid that’s gentle enough for nightly use.
The Best Skincare Routine for Oily Skin
Dr Sturnham recommends a simple, effective regimen that supports your skin morning, night and weekly. Consistency is key.
Morning
- Light Cleanse – clears overnight oil without stripping
- Preparatory Mist – hydrates with glycerin and humectants
- Protect Elixir – niacinamide + vitamin C for antioxidant support
- Peptide Emollient Veil – light, nourishing hydration
- Daily SPF – essential for protecting oily, breakout-prone skin
Evening
- Deep Cleanse – removes oil, SPF, and debris with gentle clays and acids
- Treat Tincture – stabilised retinoid to balance oil and refine skin
- Peptide Emollient Veil or Veil + – supports overnight repair
Weekly
- Airbrushing Acid – exfoliates with a balanced blend of acids
- Replenishing Paste – restores hydration and calm after exfoliation
“Your skin has different priorities in the morning and at night,” says Dr Sturnham. “Think of mornings as protection and balance, and evenings as a time for renewal. Weekly care gives your skin a chance to reset and refine.”
Common Mistakes When Treating Oily Skin
- Over-cleansing or using foaming gels, which can strip your skin and trigger more oil
- Skipping moisturiser, assuming oily skin does not need hydration
- Using incompatible formulas such as water-based and oil-based products
- Fragrance and essential oils, which can irritate oily, reactive skin
Final Thoughts
Oily skin is not a flaw. It is a skin type that needs balance and support. With the right routine and ingredients, you can control shine, minimise congestion and improve clarity without stripping your barrier.
At Decree, our doctor-led formulas are designed to work in harmony with your skin. Whether you are starting a new routine or refining what already works, we are here to support you.
Explore our skincare for oily skin to find targeted treatments that deliver visible results without compromise.
