The Best Skincare Routine for Men With Oily Skin
If you’re a guy struggling with oily skin, you know the daily battle—constant shine, clogged pores, and breakouts that show up right before an important meeting or date. The truth is, oily skin isn’t bad. In fact, it can actually keep you looking younger for longer. The trick is learning how to manage that excess oil without stripping your skin or making the problem worse.
That’s exactly what this step-by-step guide is here for. We’re breaking down the ultimate skincare routine for men with oily skin—easy to follow, backed by dermatology basics, and completely buildable using affordable Amazon finds. By the end, you’ll have a clear routine that controls shine, keeps acne at bay, and leaves your skin looking fresh and healthy.
Why Men’s Skincare for Oily Skin Is Different
Oily skin happens when your sebaceous glands produce too much sebum (your skin’s natural oil). For men, this can be even more noticeable because of testosterone, thicker skin, and larger pores. If not managed properly, oily skin can lead to:
- Constant shine, especially on the forehead, nose, and chin
- Clogged pores and blackheads
- Acne breakouts
- Rough or uneven skin texture
- Makeup (if used) slipping off quickly
The good news? With the right products and routine, oily skin can be managed easily—and even become one of your skin’s biggest assets.
Step 1: Cleanse Twice Daily
The foundation of any skincare routine for men with oily skin is cleansing. Washing your face twice a day—morning and night—removes excess oil, sweat, and dirt that can clog pores. The key is finding a cleanser that balances the skin without over-drying it.
What to look for in a cleanser:
- Gel or foaming formulas (better for oil control)
- Ingredients like salicylic acid or glycolic acid (great for unclogging pores)
- Avoid heavy cream cleansers (too rich for oily skin)
Amazon Pick:
💧 CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser
With niacinamide and ceramides, this cleanser tackles oil while keeping your skin barrier strong. It foams nicely, rinses clean, and is dermatologist-recommended for oily and acne-prone skin. Perfect for daily use without the tight, dry feeling.
Step 2: Use a Toner to Balance Oil
Most guys skip toner, but it’s a game-changer for oily skin. A good toner helps remove leftover impurities after cleansing and restores your skin’s natural pH balance. Some toners also control shine and minimize the look of large pores.
What to look for in a toner:
- Alcohol-free (so it won’t strip the skin)
- Witch hazel, niacinamide, or green tea for oil control
- Lightweight, non-sticky formulas
Amazon Pick:
🌿 Thayers Alcohol-Free Witch Hazel Toner with Aloe Vera
This classic toner gently tightens pores and controls shine while hydrating with aloe vera. It’s alcohol-free, so it won’t dry out your skin, and it works especially well for midday refreshes.
Step 3: Apply a Lightweight Serum
Serums deliver concentrated ingredients that can target oily skin concerns like breakouts, large pores, and uneven texture. Think of them as the powerhouse step in your routine.
Great serum ingredients for oily skin:
- Niacinamide: balances oil and strengthens the skin barrier
- Salicylic acid: clears pores and prevents acne
- Hyaluronic acid: hydrates without heaviness
Amazon Pick:
✨ The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum
This cult-favorite serum is perfect for men with oily skin. Niacinamide helps regulate oil production, while zinc calms inflammation. It’s lightweight, quick-absorbing, and budget-friendly.
Step 4: Moisturize Without the Grease
Yes, even oily skin needs moisturizer. Skipping it can actually make your skin produce more oil to compensate. The key is finding a moisturizer that hydrates while staying lightweight and oil-free.
What to look for in a moisturizer:
- Oil-free and non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores)
- Gel or water-based formulas
- Mattifying effect for less shine
Amazon Pick:
💦 Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel
A fan favorite for oily skin, this gel moisturizer uses hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate without feeling greasy. It absorbs fast and leaves your skin feeling fresh and smooth—no shine, no stickiness.
Step 5: Protect With Sunscreen Daily
If you only follow one step religiously, let it be this one. Sunscreen protects against sun damage, prevents premature aging, and helps control oil production. The catch? Many men with oily skin avoid sunscreen because it feels heavy or greasy.
What to look for in sunscreen:
- Oil-free, matte-finish formulas
- Broad spectrum (SPF 30 or higher)
- Lightweight and non-comedogenic
Amazon Pick:
☀️ EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
Dermatologist-recommended and lightweight, this sunscreen is a lifesaver for oily and acne-prone skin. It goes on smooth, doesn’t leave a white cast, and even includes niacinamide for extra oil control.
Optional Step: Weekly Treatments
If you want to take your skincare to the next level, add these once or twice a week:
- Clay masks: absorb oil and unclog pores
- Exfoliants: remove dead skin cells and prevent blackheads
- Spot treatments: target stubborn breakouts
Amazon Pick:
🧖 Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay Mask
This cult classic clay mask draws out impurities like nothing else. Mix it with water or apple cider vinegar and use it once a week to keep oily skin under control.
Morning vs. Night Routine: Quick Breakdown
| Step | Morning | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Cleanser | ✅ | ✅ |
| Toner | ✅ | ✅ |
| Serum | ✅ | ✅ |
| Moisturizer | ✅ | ✅ |
| Sunscreen | ✅ | ❌ (not needed at night) |
| Optional Treatments | ❌ | 1–2x weekly |
Common Mistakes Men With Oily Skin Make
- Over-washing: Strips skin and makes it produce more oil
- Skipping moisturizer: Leads to dehydration and more oiliness
- Using harsh scrubs: Causes irritation and worsens acne
- Choosing the wrong sunscreen: Heavy formulas clog pores
- Not being consistent: Skincare only works if you stick with it
FAQs About Skincare for Men With Oily Skin
Q: How often should I wash my face if I have oily skin?
A: Twice daily is ideal—any more can strip your skin and make it oilier.
Q: Can men with oily skin use facial oils?
A: Yes, but sparingly. Oils like jojoba mimic natural sebum and can actually help balance skin when used correctly.
Q: How long before I see results from a new routine?
A: Typically 4–6 weeks, since skin needs time to adjust.
Managing oily skin doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right skincare routine, men can control shine, prevent breakouts, and enjoy healthier skin long-term. Start with the basics—cleanser, toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen—and add treatments as needed.
The best part? Every step of this routine can be built using affordable Amazon skincare finds that actually work. Whether you’re just starting out or upgrading your routine, these products make it easy to stay consistent and see real results.