Best Korean Skincare for Oily Skin in 2025

Understanding Oily Skin

Oily skin occurs when the skin produces excess oil, also known as sebum. This can lead to shine, enlarged pores, and acne breakouts. Factors like genetics, hormones, and environmental conditions can make it worse. While sebum helps keep the skin soft and protected, too much of it can cause problems. The key is to manage oil without stripping moisture, and the right Korean skincare routine can help keep your face fresh, clear, and balanced.

The Korean Skincare Approach

K-Beauty focuses on gentle, hydrating formulations that balance oil production without over-drying. This prevents the rebound effect of increased oiliness, ensuring fresh, healthy skin. 

Step One: Double Cleansing

Double cleansing ensures a deep clean, preventing clogged pores and breakouts. It consists of two steps:

• The oil-based cleanser removes makeup, sunscreen, and excess oil.
• Water-based cleanser washes away dirt, sweat, and impurities.

This routine leaves your skin balanced and ready for the next steps.

Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm Pore Clarifying – SEVENTEEN Jeonghan’s pick, this deep-cleansing balm removes dead skin cells, blackheads, and excess oil, providing an easier alternative to cleansing oils.

ANUA Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil – A gentle formula that removes makeup and sebum without clogging pores.

Dermatory Pore Cleansing Water Pad – Convenient cleansing pads that remove pore impurities, control sebum, and gently exfoliate for smoother skin.

Veganifect Clean and Glow Barley Gel Cleanser – Dissolves dead skin and excess sebum while LHA hydrates and maintains moisture balance.

Happy Bath Micro Micellar Deep Cleansing Foam – A gentle, vegan formula with deep-cleaning enzymes to unclog pores and remove hidden impurities.

Step Two: Hydration for Balanced Skin

After cleansing, toner is essential for removing impurities, tightening pores, and restoring the skin’s natural pH balance. Proper hydration follows to prevent excess oil production—dehydrated skin overcompensates by producing more oil. Lightweight formulas like essences, gel creams, and gel lotions provide deep moisture without clogging pores, keeping skin balanced and healthy.

numbuzin Centella Re-leaf Green Toner Pad – Can be used as a toner or a soothing sheet mask, improving whiteheads, blackheads, and excess oil.

Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Essence Water – Controls oil production, improves skin elasticity, and brightens the complexion.

ZEROID Soothing Cream – Provides deep hydration with a lightweight, non-greasy finish that’s perfect for oily skin.

Step Three: Sun Protection

Sun protection is a must for all skin types, including oily skin. The key is to choose a lightweight sunscreen with a matte finish to prevent excess shine.

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics – Hydrates without a greasy feel and blends smoothly into the skin.

TOCOBO Cotton Soft Sunstick – A mattifying, non-greasy sunscreen that protects against UV damage and premature aging.

The Best Ingredients for Oily Skin

If you have oily skin, choosing the right ingredients can make a big difference. Niacinamide helps control oil and minimizes pores, while salicylic acid cleans deep inside pores to prevent breakouts. Tea tree oil fights bacteria and reduces redness, making it great for acne-prone skin. Centella Asiatica calms irritation and helps with healing, while green tea is packed with antioxidants to keep skin fresh and balanced.

Using Korean skincare for oily skin with these ingredients can help control shine, prevent breakouts, and keep your skin looking healthy. Seriously, if you’re not using Korean skincare, what are you even doing?

Lifestyle Tips for Managing Oily Skin

Skincare isn’t just about products. Your lifestyle plays a big role, too. Foods high in sugar and dairy can trigger sebum production, so try to limit these and opt for fruits, veggies, and lean proteins instead. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water keeps your skin fresh from within. Moreover, managing stress is also crucial since stress can lead to hormonal changes that increase oil production. Activities like exercise, meditation, or hobbies can help reduce stress levels. Lastly, getting 7-9 hours of sleep each night allows your skin to repair and regenerate, keeping it clear and healthy.