Short answer: cleanse gently twice a day, use a light toner and a niacinamide serum, keep a thin gel moisturiser, and finish every morning with a gel SPF 50. Exfoliate 2–3 times a week, not daily. Skipping moisturiser or over-washing makes skin produce more oil, not less.
Heat, humidity and long hours in air conditioning push oily skin to extremes: shiny by noon, but tight and dehydrated underneath. A short, consistent routine works better than many strong products.
Morning routine
- Cleanse with a gentle face wash or mild bar; do not scrub.
- Tone with a light, alcohol-free toner.
- Niacinamide serum to help with shine and the look of pores.
- Light gel moisturiser, a thin layer only.
- Gel sunscreen, SPF 50, about two finger-lengths for face and neck.
Night routine
- Cleanse to remove sunscreen, sweat and oil.
- Niacinamide serum again, or a treatment product on alternate nights.
- Moisturise with the same light gel.
- 2–3 nights a week: a gentle exfoliant or a retinol product, never both on the same night.
Product picks for oily skin
| Step | Product | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Toner | Royal Moisturising Green Tea Toner 500ml | 16 |
| Toner | KNIYEA Vitamin C Toner 500ml | 26 |
| Serum | Teashell 5% Niacinamide Brightening Serum | 29 |
| Serum | Sadoer Niacinamide Brightening Essence | 20 |
| Sunscreen | Hikari UltraWhite Sunscreen Gel-Cream SPF50 | 22 |
| Sunscreen | Brilliant Skin Sunscreen Gel-Cream | 27 |
Prices in AED as of November 2026; the product page always shows the current price.
Mistakes that make oily skin worse
- Washing more than twice a day, or with harsh soaps on the face.
- Skipping moisturiser: dehydrated skin often makes more oil.
- Daily scrubs and strong peels, which irritate and inflame.
- Heavy creams and thick sunscreens; choose gels instead.
- Using a rejuvenating set and other exfoliants at the same time.
When to see a doctor
If you have painful cysts, acne that leaves scars, or no improvement after 8–12 weeks of a gentle routine, see a dermatologist; prescription treatment works better than stronger cosmetics.
Frequently asked questions
Do oily skin types need moisturiser?
Yes, a light gel. It keeps the skin barrier healthy and can reduce rebound oiliness.
Is niacinamide good for oily skin?
Yes. It is well tolerated and helps with the look of shine, pores and uneven tone.
Which sunscreen suits oily skin?
A gel or gel-cream SPF 50. See our sunscreen guide.
99fils is run by Ninty Nine Fils Trading LLC in Deira, Dubai. We deliver to all seven emirates in 1–4 business days (AED 16 per order), with cash on delivery, cards, Tabby and Tamara, and every product is covered by our Authenticity Policy.
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