Products Reviewed:
Best Anti-aging: Hey Honey Good Morning Honey Silk Facial Serum
Best For Large Pores: Paula’s Choice CLINICAL 20% Niacinamide Concentrated Serum
Best Splurge: Obagi Professional C Serum
Best Budget: Svr Sebiaclear Serum
Best Overall: Farmacy Honey Halo Face Moisturizer
If you have oily skin, you know the disadvantages all too well. Your makeup melts off within an hour, and you’re constantly plagued by breakouts. You may feel like you can’t wear any makeup at all, or that you’re doomed to a life of looking greasy.
What causes oily skin?
Oily skin is caused by an overproduction of sebum, which is produced by the sebaceous glands to lubricate and protect the skin. Too much sebum can make your skin greasy, shiny, and acne-prone. Oily skin is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of things. Here are four of the most common causes:
- Genetics: Oily skin can be caused by genetics, and runs in certain families. If your parents had oily skin, chances are you might too.
- Hormones: Your hormones play a major role in the amount of oil your skin produces. Fluctuations in hormone levels can cause an increase in oil production.
- Stress: Stress can cause an increase in oil production, as well as make existing oiliness worse.
- Weather: The weather can also have an effect on your skin’s oil production. Hot and humid climates often produce more oil than cooler temperatures.
But the good news is that there are many ways to control oily skin so you don’t have to suffer through it. One way to help manage oily skin is by using a serum.
A skin care serum is a concentrated liquid that delivers powerful ingredients to your skin. Unlike lotions and moisturizers, serums are made up of smaller molecules that can penetrate deep into the skin.
They sink in quickly and don’t leave a film on the surface of your skin.
The best serums for oily skin contain ingredients like retinol, salicylic acid, and niacinamide.
These ingredients combine to unclog pores, control oil production and brighten the skin. Additionally, they can also contain antioxidants and other beneficial botanicals to nourish the skin.
Serums are lighter than most moisturizers and contain a high concentration of active ingredients, which means they can target specific skin concerns like wrinkles, fine lines, and uneven texture.
There are many different serums on the market that claim to help oily skin, but it can be hard to determine which one is right for you. So we did the research so you won’t have to and compiled a list of the best serums for oily skin based on real-life results. Read on to find which one will work best for you.
1. Consider your skin type
If you have oily or sensitive skin, you’ll want to steer clear of products that are heavy on oil. Instead, look for serums that are specifically designed for oily or sensitive skin types.
2. Climate
You should also take into account the climate you live in. If you live in an area with high humidity, you’ll want to look for a serum that is light and refreshing, like a gel or mist. On the other hand, if you live in a dry climate, you may want to opt for a more hydrating serum.
3. Look for a serum with natural ingredients
One way to promote healthy skin and reduce the chances of breakouts is to choose a serum with natural ingredients. Look for products that contain soothing ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and essential oils. You should also look for products that contain jojoba oil or other botanical extracts, as these can help to balance oil production and keep skin hydrated.
By choosing a serum with natural ingredients, you can help to reduce inflammation and promote healthy skin. They are typically gentler on your skin and will not cause any additional problems.
4. Avoid serums with alcohol or other harsh chemicals
Alcohol and other harsh chemicals can strip away natural oils, drying out the skin and causing irritation. Instead, look for serums with anti-inflammatory properties that will help to soothe and calm the skin. Rosehip seed oil and green tea are both great ingredients to look for.
In addition, be sure to read the labels carefully and avoid any products that contain parabens, sulfates, or phthalates.
5. Choose a serum with niacinamide
Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that effectively reduces excess sebum production which is an oily substance that can lead to clogged pores and breakouts. A niacinamide serum can help control oil production and keep the skin clear.
6. Avoid serums with synthetic fragrances.
Aroma is one of the most important things to consider when choosing a facial care product. However, many products on the market today contain synthetic fragrances that can actually aggravate oily skin.
Natural aromatherapy oils are a much better choice for those with oily skin, as they help to soothe and balance the oily complexion.
7. Test before you use
Applying too much or the wrong kind of oil to your skin can result in breakouts, clogged pores, and a general feeling of being greasy. However, using the right oil in your skincare routine can actually help to balance your skin’s natural oils, resulting in a more healthy and more radiant complexion. When choosing a serum for oily skin, it’s important to test it on a small area of skin before using it all over your face. This will help you to determine if it’s the right formula of ingredients for your skin type.
Now that you know what to look for in a serum, here’s the list of the best serums for oily skin based on our extensive research.
Best Anti-aging
Hey Honey Good Morning Honey Silk Facial Serum
Why We Love It
This product offers excellent anti-aging benefits. It goes on oily but dries to a natural finish, leaving behind beautiful glowing skin. This Vitamin C serum will improve the look and feel of your skin, making it softer and more elastic.
It provides great value for your money, as you don’t need to use too much of it, so each bottle lasts quite some time. Plus, it is perfect if you have mature skin and want to achieve a more youthful appearance.
What You Should Know
As we age, our skin begins to show signs of wear and tear. Fine lines and wrinkles can make us look older than we feel, and loss of radiance can leave us dull and tired. The Honey Silk serum contains gentle and beneficial ingredients for the skin that offer fast-glowing results.
The power of honey helps to deeply hydrate and nourish the skin, while the lightweight formula doubles as a makeup primer. And, the blend of rich moisturizers and nutrients such as silk amino acids, sea buckthorn oil, and vitamin E helps to keep the skin looking soft, supple, and radiant.
If you want an anti-aging product that will give you a flawless complexion, this is the serum for you. It allows for even application and provides a smooth finish when used under makeup.
Best Budget
Svr Sebiaclear Serum
Why We Love It
This is probably the best serum for oily skin types, at a budget price. It’s light and oil-free, so it won’t clog your pores. Plus, it’s packed with ingredients that help to calm acne-prone skin. It soothes redness and nourishes the skin with vitamins and antioxidants to help fade acne scars.
In addition, the serum helps to reduce the appearance of imperfections and blemishes. The consistency is perfect for an oily skin type, not too thick or too thin. Plus, it’s affordable!
What You Should Know
Svr Sebiaclear Serum is a fantastic, oil-free choice for people with oily skin struggling to find an affordable way to manage shine and breakouts. Additionally, this non-greasy serum is gentle enough for everyday use, so you can incorporate it into your regular skincare routine without any problem.
While other serums may be more expensive and offer more potent ingredients, this product’s combination of gluconolactone and niacinamide works together perfectly to reduce the appearance of pores while regulating sebum production, making it one of the best on the market.
Best Splurge
Obagi Professional C Serum
Why We Love It
This light serum that eliminates blackheads and doesn’t turn your skin red is worth every penny!
Despite its high price tag, you’ll love how it makes your skin look. This serum for oily skin lasts long and feels great on your skin.
It is easy to apply and absorbs into your skin quickly. It contains vitamin C, which helps to brighten your complexion and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. The serum also contains anti-inflammatory ingredients that help to protect your skin from environmental damage.
What You Should Know
This powerful antioxidant serum helps to reduce fine lines and dark spots. It is best suited for normal to oilier skin types and has been shown to help improve the skin’s overall appearance. This is very concentrated and rich, making it an excellent choice for those who want a more youthful appearance.
This lightweight serum is non-irritating and gentle on your skin. It won’t show any adverse reactions, so you can continue to use all of your usual skincare products with it.
The serum’s L-ascorbic acid content helps brighten the skin and give it a healthy glow. The concentrated oil-free formula immediately penetrates the skin to help deliver nutrients and antioxidants deep below the surface.
This is designed to be helpful in boosting collagen production and skin elasticity, resulting in younger-looking skin. Overall, this is a great option to consider if you want visible results within weeks.
Best For Large Pores
Paula’s Choice CLINICAL 20% Niacinamide Concentrated Serum
Why We Love It
It is a powerhouse against many of the most common skin concerns. This product can help to brighten your face, tighten and refine stretched or sagging pores, and improve your skin texture. This lightweight serum is packed with 20% niacinamide, a form of Vitamin B3 that offers many benefits for the skin.
Niacinamide can help to improve skin tone, reduce inflammation, and increase skin hydration levels. In other words, this product can help you achieve healthier and more youthful-looking skin.
What You Should Know
This is a potent antioxidant serum that helps to brighten skin and improve blotchy tone, discolorations, and uneven skin tone. The serum also helps to minimize hard, clogged bumps and improve the function of your pores by preventing additional damage from occurring.
It is a unique product that is carefully formulated without artificial dyes or fragrances to minimize the risk of sensitivity.
To use, apply 2-3 drops of serum onto your face avoiding the eyes. Use twice daily after cleansing, toning, and exfoliating for best results. With regular use, you will notice an improvement in the health and appearance of your skin.
Not only is this serum vegan and cruelty-free, but it’s also an affordable option that delivers results.
Best Overall
Sunday Riley Good Genes All-in-One Lactic Acid Treatment Face Serum
Why We Love It
Not only does this top-rated serum for oily skin immediately brighten and make skin glow, but it is also well worth the cost of the product. 1/2 pump covers your face and neck, and the serum leaves your skin looking smooth with no puffiness.
The Good Genes serum will lighten hyperpigmentation, even out skin’s texture, and provide brightness to dull-looking skin. If you want immediate or long-term results, consider the Good Genes Face Serum for gorgeous and healthy skin.
What You Should Know
This serum is an incredible product that offers many benefits for your skin. The lactic acid in the serum brightens the appearance of dark spots and clears up your complexion beautifully.
It leaves the face smooth and glowing, helps reduce the appearance of pores, and gives skin a dewy glow. In short, this product is an essential part of any skincare routine. This hydrating serum is formulated with Arnica and Lemongrass which exfoliate the skin and allow for better absorption of other products.
Arnica extract helps to reduce inflammation, while lemongrass essential oil gives the skin a refreshing boost.
To use, simply apply 1-2 pumps of the serum to clean, dry skin, day or night as a leave on treatment. For sensitive skin: Use as a mask. Apply 1-2 pumps to clean, dry skin and leave on for 15 minutes. Rinse well and pat dry.
You’ll instantly notice softer, smoother, and youthful skin with a healthy glow. Be sure to follow the directions on the product label carefully to avoid irritation.
The Best Serum for Oily Skin: Frequently Asked Questions
We’ll take a look at some of the most frequently asked questions about serums for oily skin. This FAQ section will help you understand more about serums, their benefits, and the most common skin concerns.
What does vitamin C serum do for your face?
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help to improve the appearance of your skin. When applied topically, vitamin C serum can help to brighten your skin tone, hydrate your skin, and promote healthy skin cell turnover. Vitamin C is also known to protect against environmental damage, making it an important part of any skincare routine.
What are the signs of dehydrated skin?
The signs of dehydrated skin can vary depending on your skin type. However, some common signs include dryness, flakiness, and tightness. You may also notice that your skin is dull or has lost its natural glow. In addition, dehydrated skin is more susceptible to fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots.
If you have oily skin, you may also notice that your skin is producing excessive oil in an attempt to compensate for the lack of moisture. While dehydration is a common skin concern, it is important to seek medical advice if you are experiencing any severe symptoms.
Dehydrated skin can be a sign of an underlying health condition, so it is important to get checked by a doctor to rule out any serious problems.
Moisturizing with active ingredients like hyaluronic acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid, vitamin c, and glycerin can help to boost moisture retention in the skin, resulting in a more youthful appearance.
Does acne-prone skin go away?
Acne-prone skin can go away on its own over time. However, if you want to speed up the process, there are a few things you can do. First, try using a hydrating formula to help keep your skin hydrated and get rid of the excess oil. This will help to reduce the appearance of acne scars leaving behind silky smooth skin. With proper care, your acne breakouts will eventually clear up and you will be able to enjoy a natural glow.
Is hyaluronic acid good for serum?
Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in the human body that helps keep skin hydrated and plump. When applied topically, hyaluronic acid can help to hydrate tired skin, remove dead skin cells, and restore skin power. Additionally, hyaluronic acid is non-greasy and won’t clog pores, making it ideal for oily complexions.
Can hyaluronic acid lighten skin?
Hyaluronic acid can help to improve the appearance of troubled skin, provide hydration, and control excess oil production. Additionally, hyaluronic acid can help to protect the skin from damage caused by UV rays and provide mild exfoliation.
What are the best ingredients to look for in a face serum?
There are a few ingredients to look for when trying to find the best face serum for your skin. Hyaluronic acid is a great ingredient for people with dry skin because it helps to add moisture back into the skin.
Vitamin C is another good ingredient to look for as it can help to brighten the skin and even out skin tones. Salicylic acid is also a good choice for people who want to gently exfoliate their skin. Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate is a form of vitamin C that is more stable and can penetrate the skin better. However, it is important to avoid face serums that contain mineral oil as this can clog pores, lead to breakouts, and worsen acne. When used properly, face serums can be a great way to improve the health and appearance of your skin.
What should I avoid if I have sensitive skin?
If you have sensitive skin, there are a few things you should avoid when using skin care products. First, products that contain harsh chemicals or fragrances can irritate the skin and cause breakouts. Second, avoid using too much of any skincare product, as this can also lead to irritation. Finally, be sure to choose products that are non-comedogenic, meaning they won’t clog pores and cause breakouts. By following these simple tips, you can ensure healthy skin free of irritation.
How can I make my skin healthy?
It is important to cleanse the skin regularly, use a moisturizer, and protect the skin from the sun. Cleansing helps to remove dirt, makeup, and other impurities from the skin while moisturizing helps to keep the skin hydrated and prevent dryness. Sun protection is important because exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage the skin and lead to premature aging.
Does serum penetrate the skin?
Serums are designed to penetrate the skin and deliver active ingredients to the underlying tissue. The molecules in serums are small, which allows them to easily penetrate the skin’s surface. Once inside the skin, serums can help to hydrate, plump, and smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.