Top 10 Korean Skincare Products for Oily Skin
Oily skin can be a challenge—excess sebum production leads to shiny skin, enlarged pores, and an increased risk of breakouts. But the key to managing oily skin isn’t stripping it dry. In fact, doing so can cause your skin to overcompensate by producing even more oil. Korean skincare is renowned for its gentle, hydrating, and balancing approach, making it ideal for controlling oil without compromising your skin’s health.
Here, we’ll break down the top 10 Korean skincare products that effectively manage oily skin, leaving you with a clear, shine-free complexion.
Understanding Oily Skin
Oily skin occurs when your sebaceous glands produce too much sebum. While sebum is essential for keeping your skin hydrated and protected, too much of it can lead to clogged pores, blackheads, and acne. Factors like genetics, hormones, diet, and even the weather can influence oil production. However, the right skincare routine can keep your skin balanced, helping to control oil without causing dryness.
Why Korean Skincare for Oily Skin?
Korean skincare focuses on hydration and balance rather than harsh drying agents. This approach ensures that your skin gets the moisture it needs, without triggering more oil production. Many Korean products also include ingredients like green tea, niacinamide, and tea tree oil, which are known for their oil-controlling and anti-inflammatory properties.
Let’s dive into the top 10 Korean skincare products specifically formulated to help manage oily skin.
1. Heimish All Clean Balm
Why it’s great for oily skin:
Starting your routine with an oil-based cleanser may sound counterintuitive if you have oily skin, but it’s essential for removing oil-based impurities like makeup and sunscreen. The Heimish All Clean Balm effectively removes these impurities without clogging pores, and its lightweight, non-greasy formula ensures it doesn’t leave behind any oily residue.
How to use: Apply a small amount of the balm to dry skin and gently massage in circular motions. Add water to emulsify the balm, then rinse thoroughly.
2. COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
Why it’s great for oily skin:
After using an oil-based cleanser, follow up with a gentle water-based cleanser like COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser. This product is designed to cleanse your skin without stripping it of its natural oils, thanks to its low pH formula. It contains tea tree oil, a powerhouse ingredient for reducing excess oil and keeping breakouts at bay.
How to use: Massage onto damp skin and rinse with lukewarm water.
3. Some By Mi AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner
Why it’s great for oily skin:
Exfoliation is key to managing oily skin, but you need something that’s gentle yet effective. The Some By Mi Miracle Toner uses a combination of AHA, BHA, and PHA to exfoliate dead skin cells, unclog pores, and reduce excess sebum production. This toner is ideal for keeping blackheads and whiteheads under control while also providing hydration.
How to use: Apply to a cotton pad and gently swipe across the face, focusing on the T-zone.
4. Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum: Propolis + Niacinamide
Why it’s great for oily skin:
Niacinamide is a hero ingredient for oily skin, as it helps to regulate sebum production and minimize the appearance of pores. The Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum combines niacinamide with propolis, which has anti-inflammatory properties to soothe irritated skin. This lightweight serum balances oil production without feeling heavy.
How to use: Apply 2-3 drops of serum onto the face after toning and pat gently to absorb.
5. Etude House SoonJung 10-Free Moist Emulsion
Why it’s great for oily skin:
Finding the right moisturizer for oily skin can be tricky. You need something hydrating, but not greasy. The Etude House SoonJung Moist Emulsion is perfect for oily skin types because it provides lightweight hydration without clogging pores. It’s formulated with panthenol and madecassoside to calm and hydrate the skin, making it ideal for those with oily yet sensitive skin.
How to use: Apply a small amount to the face and neck after serum.
6. Beauty of Joseon Calming Serum : Green tea + Panthenol
Why it’s great for oily skin:
Green tea is one of the best ingredients for oily skin due to its antioxidant and oil-controlling properties. The Innisfree Green Tea Seed Serum delivers intense hydration while helping to balance oil production. It absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving a matte finish without any sticky residue.
How to use: Apply 2-3 drops to the face after toning, focusing on the T-zone.
7. Klairs Soft Airy UV Essence SPF 50+
Why it’s great for oily skin:
Sunscreen is a must for every skin type, including oily skin. The Klairs Soft Airy UV Essence is a lightweight, water-based sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection without leaving a greasy film. It’s non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores, and it leaves a natural finish that doesn’t contribute to excess shine.
How to use: Apply generously as the last step of your skincare routine before makeup or going outside.
8. COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion
Why it’s great for oily skin:
Moisturizers for oily skin should hydrate without adding excess oil. The COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion is formulated with birch sap, which hydrates the skin without clogging pores or leaving a greasy residue. It’s ideal for oily skin because it’s lightweight, absorbs quickly, and helps to balance moisture levels.
How to use: Use after serum, applying a thin layer to the face and neck.
9. Isntree Green Tea Fresh Toner
Why it’s great for oily skin:
Isntree Green Tea Fresh Toner is infused with green tea extracts, which help to control sebum and soothe inflammation. This toner is ideal for oily skin types because it reduces shine while keeping the skin hydrated and balanced. The formula also contains additional soothing ingredients like centella asiatica and allantoin.
How to use: After cleansing, apply to a cotton pad or directly to the skin and gently pat in.
10. Axis-Y Cera-Heart My Type Duo Cream
Why it’s great for oily skin:
The Axis-Y Cera-Heart My Type Duo Cream is a unique dual-function moisturizer that addresses the distinct needs of different facial zones. Designed for year-round use, it caters to the ever-changing moisturizing requirements of your skin, providing a youthful and nourished glow.
How to use:
- Apply T-Zone Cream (Blue): Use on oily areas for lightweight hydration.
- Apply U-Zone Cream (White): Target dry areas with this thicker, more hydrating formula.
Final Tips for Managing Oily Skin
Don’t skip moisturizer:
Many people with oily skin think skipping moisturizer will help reduce oil, but this can actually lead to more sebum production. Instead, opt for oil-free, gel-based moisturizers.
Avoid harsh cleansers:
Over-cleansing can strip your skin of its natural oils, causing it to produce even more sebum. Stick to gentle, pH-balanced cleansers.
Use blotting papers:
If you struggle with excess shine throughout the day, blotting papers are a quick fix to absorb oil without disturbing your makeup.
Incorporate clay masks:
Clay masks can help to absorb excess oil and keep breakouts at bay. Try using a clay mask once or twice a week for a deeper cleanse.
By choosing the right combination of Korean skincare products, you can effectively manage oily skin, keep shine under control, and maintain a balanced, healthy complexion. Incorporate these products into your routine, and you'll be well on your way to clear, matte skin.
