3 Tips for Managing Oily Skin in the Summertime

August 15, 2023
Ariel Wodarcyk
By: Ariel Wodarcyk | skincare.com by L'Oréal
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Dermatologist Tips for Oily Skin in the Summer

Use Products with Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid can be helpful in the summer to unclog pores and reduce excess shine oil,” says Dr. Garshick. “It also works as an exfoliant to help get rid of dead skin cells.” Plus, salicylic acid is also used in common acne treatments to help control and prevent breakouts. We like the CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser, which is formulated with salicylic acid and oil-absorbing technology to keep skin feeling fresh and mattified. 

CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser

Use a Non-Comedogenic Moisturizer

All skin types need moisturizer, but if you have oily skin, Dr. Garshick recommends opting for lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas over heavy creams. Some moisturizers  for oily skin may contain a small amount of salicylic acid as this may help to reduce excess shine, she notes.The Vichy Normaderm PhytoAction Acne Control Daily Moisturizer is one example, with 2% salicylic acid, vitamin C and hyaluronic acid. 

Vichy Normaderm PhytoAction Acne Control Daily Moisturizer

Stash Blotting Papers and Powder in Your Bag

You probably already have a go-to blotting papers-plus-powder combo your reach for year-round, but just in case you don’t, summer is the time to start. Dr. Garshick suggests keeping a powder on-hand to help minimize the look of midday shine — specifically one with SPF to add an extra layer of UV protection in the summer months. Try the Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50, a non-comedogenic powder that comes with a built-in brush for on-the-go application. 

Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50

Dermatologist-Approved Products for Oily Skin in the Summer

Below, find five products Dr. Garshick recommends incorporating in your summer oily skin routine.

Skinceuticals Blemish + Age Defense

Dr. Garshick deems this a “splurge-worthy” serum, with a combination of salicylic acid, lipo-hydroxy acid, dioic acid, glycolic acid and citric acid. The oil-free formula is intended for oily and combination skin to help minimize the appearance of excess oil, breakouts and signs of aging. 

Skinceuticals Blemish + Age Defense

Thayers Natural Remedies Blemish Clearing 2% Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment Toner

This salicylic acid- and witch hazel-infused toner helps clear up existing blemishes and prevent new ones from popping up. It’s the perfect way to help cut down on excess oil after you cleanse and before you apply your (lightweight and non-comedogenic!) moisturizer. 

Thayers Natural Remedies Blemish Clearing 2% Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment Toner

Skinbetter Science AlphaRet Clearing Serum

“This serum packs a punch as it combines a retinoid with lactic acid, an alpha-hydroxy acid, and salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid,” says Dr. Garshick. “Additionally, it contains niacinamide, sodium hyaluronate and other nourishing ingredients to help moisturize the skin, so the skin won’t be left feeling dry or irritated.” The multipurpose product helps to improve the look of uneven skin tone, texture, enlarged pores, shine, leaving skin clarified and more even-looking.

Skinbetter Science AlphaRet Clearing Serum

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Matte Face Moisturizer for Oily Skin

Not only does this lightweight moisturizer reduce the appearance of shine, it also helps to improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of large pores. Inside, you’ll find soothing niacinamide, La Roche-Posay’s antioxidant-rich prebiotic thermal water and ceramide-3. The formula is fast-absorbing and won’t look or feel heavy on oily skin. 

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Matte Face Moisturizer for Oily Skin

CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30

With a matte finish, oil-free formula and bonus SPF 30, this moisturizer is the perfect pick for oily skin in the summer months. It keeps skin hydrated minus the shine and is infused with hyaluronic acid and ceramides. 

CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30
Photographer: Chaunte Vaughn

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