In the summer, humidity can give those with dry skin a welcome reprieve from flakiness plus a glowy finish. Oily skin types, on the other hand, typically have running makeup, high shine levels, and breakouts to look forward to. But it doesn’t have to be that way. We asked Dr. Orit Markowitz, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, to share her tips for building a summer skin-care routine that will keep your oil under control, pores unclogged, and complexion matte.
Oily skin 101
According to Dr. Markowitz, it’s a common misconception that people with oily skin should go easy on the moisturizer—it’s just a matter of choosing the right one. “When you have oily skin, your skin still requires the same level of care as dry skin,” she explains. “It may not require the same ingredients, but you still must moisturize oily skin, because you still must give it a sealant of protection.”
Another misconception? That all oils are bad for oily skin. “Not every oil is a true oil,” says Dr. Markowitz. “Some are called an oil but are actually drying, such as tea tree oil, which is almost like witch hazel. Every oil has different properties—and some of those properties, such as fatty acids and other grease components, then make the oil comedogenic. But if it’s an anti-inflammatory or dry oil, such as rosehip oil, those are not comedogenic.” (Other oils that won’t clog pores include grapeseed oil, sunflower seed oil, hempseed oil, primrose oil, and saffron oil.)
Dr. Markowitz also recommends that those with oily skin cut down the number of products in their regimen to just the basics so there’s less buildup. “Stick with a lighter sunscreen that has a little moisturizer in it versus adding a sunscreen lotion [and] a moisturizer and then applying makeup,” says Dr. Markowitz. This will keep your oil production in check and allow your skin to “breathe” better. She also suggests using a mineral option, since “chemical sunscreens tend to get absorbed in the skin and clog pores.”
Lastly, “Retin-A can be very helpful in controlling oily skin,” says the derm. “Retin-A is drying, an unwanted side effect [for many], but people who have acne and oily skin can tolerate this.”
Skin-care products for oily skin
Cleanser: Dr. Dennis Gross Hyaluronic Marine Meltaway Cleanser ($30)
At the end of a hot summer day, it’s crucial to rid your skin of all the makeup, sweat, and pollution that has accumulated. This melt-away cleanser is oil-free and formulated with marine algae, which is rich in essential amino acids and B vitamins. It leaves oily skin with just the right moisture balance after you wash it off.
Toner: ClarityRx Fit It 2% Pore Perfecting Solution ($54)
Dr. Markowitz recommends using salicylic acid—the star in this toner—as a gentle way to unclog pores, keep new dead skin cells from building up, and dissolve excess oil. It can be used nightly, if your skin tolerates it, or every other night, if you notice redness or irritation.
Serum: GloSkin Beauty C-Shield Anti-Pollution Drops ($96)
Antioxidants are always important but even more so in the summer. They protect against free radicals and environmental pollutants, which you’re much more likely to encounter when you’re spending more time outside. (They make your sunscreen more powerful too.) This serum has three forms of vitamin C, for extra defense against skin stressors, plus brightening benefits.
Moisturizer: BeautyStat Universal Pro-Bio Moisture Boost Cream ($50)
Acne-prone and oily skin types will love this lightweight moisturizer; it’s formulated with hyaluronic acid and ceramides, to replenish the skin’s moisture barrier and lock in water, and ganoderma and bifida extract, two fermented probiotics that heal and soothe irritation or inflammation. Looking for a more affordable option? Dr. Markowitz recommends Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-Cream ($26.49).
Tinted sunscreen: HydroPeptide Solar Defense Tinted ($48)
Want to simplify your routine? This product is essentially a three-in-one: SPF 30 sunscreen, moisturizer, and tinted foundation—just like the derm ordered above. It keeps skin hydrated, with hyaluronic acid; subtly evens out most skin tones, with tinted mineral spheres; and protects against environmental stressors, thanks to its antioxidant-rich blend of calendula and cucumber. On top of all that, it’s mattifying.
Sunscreen: Obagi Sun Shield Matte Broad Spectrum SPF 50 ($53)
If you’d prefer your sun protection without a tinted factor, this noncomedogenic formula dries to a flawless matte finish, so you can go makeup free at the beach without having to worry about oil control. It’s also formulated with vitamin C, to defend against free-radical damage from harsh UVA and UVB rays.
Blotting sheets: Mineral Air Oil Absorbing Blotting Papers ($10)
You’ll never regret keeping blotting papers nearby, for taking down shine on the go. The credit-card-thin packaging on these pink sheets ensures that you can slip them into any bag when you go out this summer.
