Why Oil Production Increases in Summer

UV exposure can set off a chain reaction at the skin’s surface. When skin is exposed to UV radiation, it can generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), unstable molecules associated with oxidative stress. This may affect skin cells and surface lipids, including the lipids found in sebum. In simple terms: UV exposure can change the environment on the skin’s surface.

Sebum is not just “oil.” It also contains antioxidant components, including vitamin E and coenzyme Q10, which help defend the skin against oxidative stress. Because UV exposure increases oxidative stress, researchers have suggested that higher sebum levels may be part of the skin’s response to increased UV exposure. On skin, this can appear as more visible shine, especially in areas already prone to oiliness.

UV radiation can also change the composition of sebum by oxidizing certain lipids, including squalene. For blemish-prone skin, these changes may contribute to visible congestion, clogged-looking pores, and breakouts. This is why daily sun protection matters. It helps reduce exposure to a factor that may make skin look oilier or more congested.

An effective skincare regimen for oily skin starts with a gentle cleanser and ends with a broad-spectrum SPF.

Prep: Gentle Cleansing

Sweat is part of summer skin, too. When it sits on the skin’s surface, it can mix with dirt, oil, and dead skin cells. This buildup may clog pores or contribute to breakouts. Using a gentle face wash helps remove impurities that can lead to signs of congestion.

When skin feels oilier, it can be tempting to reach for a stronger cleanser. But stronger is not always better. Harsh cleansers can strip the skin of beneficial natural lipids and disrupt the skin barrier, which may increase the risk of irritation and breakouts instead of helping skin feel balanced.

• Squalane Cleanser: effectively dissolves makeup, oil, and impurities while supporting the skin barrier. Skin feels soft, smooth, and hydrated. Because it’s formulated with squalane, this cleanser won’t clog pores.

• Glucoside Foaming Cleanser: is a gentle gel-like formulation that cleanses without stripping, and supports clarity, radiance, and suppleness with continued use.

Treat: Oil-Balancing Ingredients

Adding niacinamide to an oil-control routine can help target excess sebum and reduce visible shine during warmer months. As a multi-functional ingredient, niacinamide also supports the skin barrier, helping skin feel balanced without stripping.

• Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%: is ideal for skin prone to visible oiliness and congestion. Lightweight, and water-based, it contains a high concentration of niacinamide that effectively balances excess oil, reduces shine, and minimizes the appearance of pores. Apply a few drops of Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% after cleansing and toners or essences, and before oil-based serums.

Seal: Maintaining Hydration And Balance

Hydration still matters for skin that appears oily. The skin’s natural oil can help protect skin, but is not consistently linked to skin hydration levels in research. Skin prone to visible oiliness or blemishes can still become dehydrated and may benefit from lightweight hydration to help support balance.

Oily skin is best suited to lightweight moisturizers that hydrate without feeling heavy.

• Natural Moisturizing Factors + Beta Glucan: is a fast-absorbing gel moisturizer that provides all-day hydration after one application. With a blend of natural moisturizing factors, beta glucan, and ceramides, it also supports the skin barrier. This non-greasy formulation is excellent for oily and combination skin year round, particularly in warmer weather.

• Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA: mimics the composition of the skin’s natural hydration system to keep your skin protected and well-hydrated with no greasy residue. The addition of hyaluronic acid helps the skin maintain moisture throughout the day. This oil-free formulation is suitable for all skin types.

• Rice Lipids + Ectoin Microemulsion: is an ultra-lightweight blend of oil and water-based ingredients, including rice lipids, jojoba oil, ectoin, and natural moisturizing factors. This emulsion delivers 24 hours of soothing hydration with a barely-there feel.

Apply moisturizer as the last step in your skincare routine to support hydration and your skin barrier.

Make broad-spectrum SPF the final step in your daytime oil-control routine. By helping reduce damage caused by UV radiation, sunscreen can support the skin against oxidative stress and may help minimize factors linked to excess oil.

The Ordinary’s UV Filters SPF 45 Serum provides broad-spectrum sun protection against UVA and UVB rays. This serum-textured suncare formulation is lightweight, fragrance-free, and blends into skin seamlessly without leaving a white cast. It’s also formulated to be non-comedogenic and suitable for all skin types. Offering instant and all-day hydration, this SPF leaves skin looking luminous, not shiny.

• Start with a gentle cleanser that removes oil, sweat, and dirt. Avoid harsh cleansers that can strip and irritate the skin.

• Follow with targeted ingredients, like niacinamide that target excess oil and surface shine.

• Oily skin still needs moisture. Use a lightweight moisturizer to maintain hydration and support the skin barrier.

• Finish your AM routine with a broad-spectrum SPF to protect and help prevent excess oil.

You don’t need a harsh or complicated routine to manage oily skin this summer. Focus on gentle cleansing, targeted support, consistent hydration, and daily sun protection to help control shine and maintain your skin barrier all season.