If you're in your teens and your face feels greasy just a few hours after washing it, you’re not alone. Oily skin during teenage years is very common. It can leave you feeling uncomfortable and can also cause pimples and clogged pores, especially during the monsoon season, when humidity levels rise.

The good news is that you can manage oily skin with a simple, consistent skincare routine. Understanding what’s causing the oiliness and following the right steps can help you feel confident in your skin again.

What Causes Oily Skin in Teenagers?

During your teens, your body goes through many changes. One major change is the increase in hormones, especially androgens. These hormones make your skin’s oil glands larger and more active.

As a result, your skin produces more sebum (natural oil). While this oil helps keep your skin soft, too much of it leads to oily skin. Genetics, diet, stress, and even the weather can also increase oil production.

So, if your parents have oily skin, or if you live in a hot and humid place, chances are you’ll deal with the same.

Common Signs of Oily Skin

During the monsoon season, oily skin becomes more noticeable. That’s why a proper teenage oily skin care routine becomes even more important during this time. Here are the main signs you can notice: 

• Shiny face – Your forehead, nose, and chin look glossy soon after you wash.
• Enlarged pores – Small dots or holes look larger, especially around your nose and cheeks.
• Frequent breakouts – Blackheads, whiteheads, or pimples appear more often.

Skincare Routine for Oily Teenage Skin

1. Cleanser (Twice a Day)

Start and end your day by washing your face with a gentle, oil-free cleanser. This helps remove dirt, excess oil, and sweat that can clog pores. Look for ingredients like salicylic acid or tea tree oil, which help clear acne and reduce shine. Avoid harsh soaps that can dry out your skin and cause more oil production.

2. Toner (Optional but Helpful)

 After cleansing, using a toner can help remove leftover impurities and tighten your pores. A toner with witch hazel or niacinamide is great for oily skin, especially during the monsoon when skin feels sticky. It also helps balance the skin’s pH and controls extra shine throughout the day.

3. Moisturiser 

Even oily skin needs hydration. Skipping moisturiser can confuse your skin, causing it to produce more oil. Choose a lightweight, gel-based or water-based moisturiser that is non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores). It keeps your skin soft without making it greasy, especially in humid weather.

4. Sunscreen (Every Day)

Don’t skip sunscreen—rain or shine. Use a matte-finish, oil-free sunscreen with SPF 30 or more. It protects your skin from sun damage and prevents dark spots, which can worsen with acne. A lightweight sunscreen keeps your skin protected without feeling heavy or oily.

5. Exfoliation (1–2 Times a Week)

Gently exfoliate your skin once or twice a week to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. Choose a mild scrub that won’t irritate your skin. Over-scrubbing can damage your skin barrier and cause more breakouts, so always be gentle and follow with moisturiser.

Habits That Make Oily Skin Worse

To keep oily skin from getting worse, avoid these common habits:

• Touching your face often – Hands have dirt and oil. Touching spreads it and can clog pores.
• Skipping moisturiser – You might think it’s better to avoid it, but this can make your skin produce more oil.
• Washing too much – Washing your face too often or with harsh soaps leads to dryness. Your skin makes more oil to fight that dryness.
• Heavy makeup – Thick, oily products can block your pores when worn in humid weather.
• Picking at pimples – This can cause scarring and infection.
• Using wrong products – Avoid heavy creams, body soaps on your face, or alcohol-based astringents. These can dry your skin and trigger more oil.

Tips to Control Excess Oil Naturally

Along with your skin care routine for oily skinned teenager,  a few simple lifestyle habits can help you manage excess oil more effectively:

1. Use Blotting Paper During the Day
 

Carry blotting papers or oil-control wipes in your bag. Gently dabbing your face helps absorb extra oil without disturbing your makeup or skincare.

2. Keep Yourself Hydrated

Drink enough water throughout the day. Proper hydration helps your body maintain a natural oil balance, which can keep your skin from producing too much sebum.

3. Follow a Balanced Diet

 What you eat plays a big role in your skin’s health. Try to reduce intake of oily, fried, and sugary foods. Instead, choose more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, which are good for your skin.

4. Clean Your Face Towel and Pillowcases Regularly

 Dirty fabrics like towels and pillowcases can transfer oil, bacteria, and sweat back onto your skin. Wash them at least once or twice a week to keep your skin clear and fresh.

5. Wipe Your Phone Screen Daily

 Your phone touches your face more often than you realise. Clean it regularly to prevent dirt and bacteria from clogging your pores and causing breakouts.

When to See a Dermatologist

If your skin doesn’t improve with home care, or if your acne becomes painful and widespread, it’s time to see a dermatologist.

You might need prescription creams or treatments to manage your skin. There’s no shame in asking for help. In fact, professional advice can save you from scars and long-term skin problems.

A skin expert can also recommend the best skincare for oily teenage skin based on your exact needs and skin type.

Taking Control of Teenage Oily Skin Starts with You

Managing oily skin in your teens can feel frustrating, especially during monsoons when humidity makes everything worse.

But with the right skincare for oily teenage skin, you can keep shine and breakouts under control. Your journey to better skin starts with a thoughtful, gentle, and effective teenage oily skin care routine. And the best part? You’re never too young to build habits that will keep your skin glowing for years to come. 

FAQ’s

1. Can oily skin be a sign of a health problem?

In most cases, oily skin is normal and caused by hormones, especially during the teenage years. However, if it’s sudden or severe, it’s best to consult a dermatologist to rule out any underlying issues.

2.  Does drinking water help reduce oily skin?

Yes, staying hydrated helps balance your skin’s oil levels. Drinking enough water daily can reduce excess oil and keep your skin looking fresh and healthy.

3. Should teenagers use moisturiser if they have oily skin?

Absolutely. Skipping moisturiser can make your skin produce even more oil. Choose a lightweight, non-greasy moisturiser to keep your skin hydrated without clogging pores.

4. Is it okay to use makeup on oily skin?

Yes, but use non-comedogenic and oil-free makeup products. Also, don’t forget to remove it properly before sleeping to avoid clogged pores and breakouts.

5. How can I stop my face from getting oily during the day?

Stick to a proper teenage oily skin care routine, use blotting paper, and avoid touching your face. A mattifying sunscreen or primer can also help reduce midday shine.