Helpful Tips for Managing an Oily T-Zone

Tip #1: Use the right cleanser

The first step to caring for your skin is finding the right face wash. The goal is to remove impurities, dirt, and—of course—excess shine on your T-zone without eliminating your skin’s natural oils. If you have an oily T-zone accompanied by dry cheeks, it’s especially important that your cleanser doesn’t dry out your cheeks even further. For a mild, mattifying cleanser that won’t strip your skin dry, we recommend the Garnier SkinActive Clean+ Shine Control Cleansing Gel. Stick to a cleansing schedule of twice per day, once in the morning and once at night. Cleansing more often than that can cause your skin to dry out.

Tip #2: Follow with an oil-free moisturizer

Yes an oily T-zone indicates excess sebum production, but that’s no reason to skip moisturizer. All skin needs daily hydration, and oily skin types are no exception. That said, finding the best moisturizer that can hydrate dry areas and mattify oily areas is tricky. We recommend a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer like La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat. Apply the formula sparingly on your T-zone, but by no means skip it entirely.

Tip #3: Blot excess oil away

If you have oily skin, you know the struggle of that midday shine on your T-zone threatening to ruin your makeup. To sop up excess oil and reduce shine in a pinch (without ruining your carefully-crafted contour), reach for blotting papers. Pop a pack in your handbag and you’re all set for on-the-go touch-ups throughout the day as needed. Need a rec? Check out our favorite blotting papers from NYX Professional Makeup, here. If you don’t have blotting papers handy, you can dab a clean tissue onto your T-zone (beware: that may mess with your makeup) or opt for an oil-absorbing pressed powder. 

Tip #4: Multi-masking is your friend

Clay masks are a fan-favorite for those with oily skin as they can help mattify the skin and address clogged pores. If you have combination skin with dry cheeks, try the multi-masking trend and apply a hydrating face mask onto your cheeks while your T-zone gets some clay action. That way you can make the most of your masking session by targeting the different areas of your skin based on specific needs.

Are you a multi-masking newbie? Check out our guide on how to multi-mask using L’Oreal Paris’ Pure-Clay mask range!

Tip #5: Be picky with your makeup

Just like finding the right cleanser and moisturizer, using the proper cosmetics is important. When you’re ready to apply your makeup, start with a primer that can help reduce excess shine. (We like Urban Decay De-Slick Complexion Primer.) For foundation, mattifying formulas are a great option for oily skin types. If your skin is still looking a little too shiny for your liking, dab a setting or pressed powder onto your T-zone to diminish any lingering shine. Pro tip: Keep it in your handbag, along with those blotting papers, for touch-ups throughout the day.