Struggling With Shiny Skin? These 9 Face Washes Tempered Oily Skin During Testing

If your skin starts looking shiny and feeling slick by midday, then chances are you have oily skin. Sebum — the natural oily substance produced by the skin — is primarily influenced by genetics and hormones. However, Samantha Ghiselli, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist based in Colorado, notes that environmental and lifestyle factors can play a small role, too.

To find the best face washes for oily skin, we considered dozens of top brands and popular products based on dermatologist recommendations and market research. Then, our team of expert testers tried dozens of products at home for two to three weeks, evaluating each formula on active ingredients, formula type, oil control, and overall results. After combing through insights, we landed on nine products — including three that have worked on my oily T-zone — that are best for oily skin.

• Best for acne: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Gel Facial Wash for Oily Skin
• Best budget: Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser Fragrance Free
• Best for sensitive skin: Bioderma Sensibio Foaming Gel Face Cleanser for Sensitive Skin
• Best brightening: SkinPharm Power Wash
• Best pore clearing: Dickinson’s Pore Perfecting Cleanser
• Best for gentle hydration: Good Molecules Hydrating Facial Cleansing Gel
• Best exfoliating: Kiehl's Since 1851 Rare Earth Deep Pore Daily Exfoliating Face Cleanser
• Best balancing: OUAI Detox Face Cleanser
• Best for mature skin: Olay Cleansing Melts with Vitamin C Face Cleanser

To find the best oily skin face washes, I considered top brands and popular products based on expert recommendations and market research. Our team of expert testers also tried more than 50 products at home for two to three weeks, evaluating each formula on active ingredients, formula type, oil control, and overall results. As someone with combination skin, I also included three formulas that have worked on my oily T-zone.

I spoke to the following experts for information on what to look for in an oily skin face wash:

• Peterson Pierre, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Golden State Dermatology in California
• Sarah Allen, MD, founder and chief medical officer of Skin Clique and a board-certified physician specializing in evidence-based skin health
• Samantha Ghiselli, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skn Dermatology in Glendale, Colorado
• Elizabeth Bahar Houshmand, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist based in Dallas specializing in cutaneous laser surgery, cosmetic dermatology, acne, hair loss, and melasma
• Sandy Johnson, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Arizona specially trained to recognize and treat problems of the skin, hair, and nails

Nonirritating When oily skin is irritated by harsh ingredients, it compensates by producing even more sebum in what our dermatologists call “rebound oil production.” Avoid this skin care pitfall by looking for gentle, nonirritating formulas that don’t contain sodium lauryl sulfate, fragrance, or alcohol. Even salicylic acid can be an issue if overused, notes Dr. Pierre. “Although it can dissolve oil very well, it can also dry out your skin,” he says. Instead, Pierre advises looking for formulas that soothe the complexion while providing a little hydration, such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and niacinamide.

Noncomedogenic Because oily skin is more prone to acne, seeking out noncomedogenic — aka non-pore-clogging — face wash formulas is essential. “Look for products that say ‘oil-free’ or ‘noncomedogenic,’” says Dr. Houshmand, “and avoid heavy occlusive oils or butters, such as coconut oil.”

Formula Type You’ll typically see foaming cleansers recommended for oily skin types, as they remove excess sebum most effectively. However, the ingredients matter more than the texture, according to Houshmand. “A well-formulated gel cleanser can be just as effective while being less drying,” she explains. “I typically recommend gentle foaming or gel cleansers that remove oil without stripping the skin barrier.”

Is Oily Skin Genetic or Influenced by Lifestyle Factors?

Oily skin is largely genetic and influenced by hormones that regulate sebaceous glands. “Hormonal fluctuations, especially those during adolescence, menstruation, or with conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome, can play a role,” explains Houshmand. But skin care should always be approached holistically, and lifestyle and environmental factors influence oil production, too.

“Anything that increases inflammation, such as stress, poor sleep, or a high-sugar diet, can elevate cortisol and result in increased oil production,” says Pierre. On that note, you’ll want to avoid irritation of any kind — even scrubbing your face can cause the skin to produce more oil, according to Dr. Johnson.

Are There Any Benefits to Having Oily Skin?

Although it may seem high-maintenance, oily skin comes with some upsides. “Natural sebum helps maintain hydration and elasticity, so people with oily skin may develop fine lines later than those with dry skin,” says Dr. Allen. “However, oily skin has its own concerns, like enlarged pores and acne scarring, and daily sun protection remains the most important factor in healthy aging.”

Is Double Cleansing Helpful for Oily Skin?

When done correctly, double cleansing can help reduce oil and congestion without increasing irritation. Houshmand suggests using a micellar cleanser first to dissolve sunscreen, sebum, and makeup, followed by a gentle hydrating face wash that cleanses any lingering impurities without stripping the skin.

The key with double cleansing is to avoid irritation, adds Ghiselli: “Be careful not to use a second cleanser that is too harsh, as it can lead to a broken barrier and rebound oil production,” she says.