Serum for oily skin

Choose the right serum without adding more shine

Oily skin needs serum that helps balance sebum production, soothes the skin, and improves skin texture without clogging pores. A good serum for oily skin should be lightweight in texture, contain ingredients that regulate oil, and still provide enough moisture. When the skin is balanced, both shine, visible pores, and the risk of breakouts often decrease.

What does oily skin mean

Oily skin is characterized by an overproduction of sebum, which makes the skin often feel shiny or greasy, especially on the forehead, nose, and chin. The pores may appear larger, and the skin can more easily develop blackheads and pimples. Oily skin can also feel superficially dry if it lacks moisture, which sometimes leads to the skin producing even more oil as compensation.

Why does the skin become oily

There are several reasons why the skin produces a lot of oil. Hormones play a significant role and can affect the sebaceous glands both during adolescence and adulthood. An incorrect skincare routine is another common cause. If the skin is cleansed too harshly or not moisturized properly, it can become dehydrated on the surface. When this happens, the skin tries to protect itself by producing more sebum. Stress, climate, and genetics can also affect how oily the skin feels.

What is a serum and why is it good for oily skin

A serum is a lightweight and concentrated product that contains active ingredients in higher concentrations than a regular face cream. Serums are quickly absorbed and can work more targetedly on specific skin issues like oily skin, large pores, or uneven skin texture.

For oily skin, serums are often an important step because they can regulate sebum, soothe the skin, and provide moisture without feeling heavy. A serum does not replace a face cream but complements it by adding active ingredients that help the skin achieve balance.

Which serum is best for oily skin

The best serum for oily skin depends on what the skin needs most. Oily skin may require different types of serums depending on whether the main issue is shine, clogged pores, inflammation, or uneven texture.

• Soothing serums with ingredients like heartleaf and centella asiatica help reduce irritation and redness, which can decrease overactive sebum production.
• Sebum-regulating serums with niacinamide can help balance oil production and reduce the visibility of pores over time.
• Exfoliating serums with acids like AHA, BHA, and PHA can dissolve clogged pores, improve skin texture, and make the skin smoother, but should be used with caution.
• Hydrating serums with a light consistency can be important even for oily skin, as a lack of moisture often leads to increased oil production.

How to use serum if you have oily skin

Apply serum after cleansing and before face cream. One to two pumps are usually enough for the entire face. In the morning, you can choose a soothing or hydrating serum, while exfoliating or more active serums are better suited for the evening.

It's possible to use more than one serum, but it's important not to combine too many strong active ingredients at once. Acids and retinol, for example, should not be used every day if the skin is sensitive. Always finish with a light face cream even if the skin feels oily, as serum does not replace the protective function of a moisturizer.

Recommended serums for oily skin

Here are five serums from Koreanbeauty.se that are particularly suitable for oily skin and help balance shine, pores, and skin texture.

Anua Heartleaf 80% Soothing Serum

Anua Heartleaf 80% Soothing Serum is a soothing serum with a very high content of heartleaf extract. Heartleaf is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and helps to soothe irritated and stressed skin. The serum has a light consistency that absorbs quickly without leaving a sticky feeling. It is well-suited for oily and sensitive skin that easily reacts with redness or breakouts and can be used both morning and evening.

SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule

SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule is a minimalist serum with centella asiatica as the main ingredient. Centella helps to soothe the skin, strengthen the skin barrier, and support skin recovery. The ampoule is very light in consistency and therefore excellent for oily skin that needs calm and balance rather than heavy products. It can be used daily and works well with other serums.

AHA, BHA, PHA 30 Days Miracle Serum 50 ml

AHA, BHA, PHA 30 Days Miracle Serum is an exfoliating serum that combines three types of acids. AHA helps to improve the skin surface, BHA deeply cleanses the pores, and PHA provides a gentler exfoliation suitable even for more sensitive skin. This serum is particularly good for oily skin with clogged pores, blackheads, and uneven skin texture. It should be used in the evening a few times a week depending on the skin's tolerance.

Niacinamide 20 Serum 40 ml

Niacinamide 20 Serum is a concentrated serum that focuses on regulating sebum production and reducing visible pores. Niacinamide is a popular ingredient for oily skin as it helps to balance oil production, improve skin texture, and strengthen the skin barrier. This serum is well-suited for oily and combination skin that experiences a lot of shine and unevenness. It is best used once a day, and always follow up with a moisturizing cream.

Zero Pore One Day Serum 30 ml

Zero Pore One Day Serum is a serum developed to improve skin texture and reduce the visibility of pores. The serum contains ingredients that help to smooth the skin surface and provide a smoother feel. It is particularly well-suited for oily skin that experiences large pores and uneven texture. The serum can be used both morning and evening depending on the skin's needs.

How to get smoother skin and less visible pores

To achieve smoother skin, it is important to combine the right serum with a consistent routine. Soothing serums help to reduce irritation that can make pores more visible. Exfoliating serums can improve skin texture by removing dead skin cells and cleansing the pores. Sebum-regulating ingredients help to reduce shine and make the skin more even over time. The results usually come gradually as the skin finds the right balance between moisture, soothing care, and active ingredients.

Common mistakes with oily skin and serums

A common mistake is using too strong serums too often in hopes of reducing shine quickly. This can instead irritate the skin and lead to increased sebum production. Many with oily skin also skip moisturizer, which can make the skin more unbalanced. Combining several active serums at the same time can also be too much for the skin. It is better to use a few products consistently than many products sporadically.

Common questions & answers about serums for oily skin

Which serum is best for oily skin?

The best serum for oily skin is light in consistency and contains ingredients like niacinamide, centella, or heartleaf. These help to balance sebum production and soothe the skin without clogging the pores.

Should you use serum if you have oily skin?

Yes, serums are often very good for oily skin because they deliver active ingredients without feeling heavy. They can help regulate oil, improve skin texture, and provide hydration.

Is hyaluronic serum good for oily skin?

Hyaluronic serum can be good for oily skin because it hydrates without adding oil. When the skin gets enough moisture, sebum production can decrease.

Is retinol good for oily skin?

Retinol can be good for oily skin because it can improve skin texture and reduce clogged pores. However, it should be used carefully and preferably at night, especially if the skin is sensitive.

Do you need to use cream after serum?

Yes, it is important to finish with a face cream after serum. The cream helps to lock in moisture and protect the skin, even if the skin is oily.