Overview

Excessive oil on your skin may make you look shiny, cause makeup to slip off or wear poorly, or keep you from looking poised and polished. Smart skin care can help to reduce excess oil, as can choosing the right cosmetics. Once you know how to care for and maintain your oily skin, you can look fresh and professional from morning through a late night.

Step 1

Wash your face morning and night with a gentle cleanser. "Elle" magazine rated Cetaphil as one of the best choices on the market. Harsh cleansers may over-dry your skin, leading to even more oil production. Apply acne treatment products after you cleanse your skin, if you need them.

Step 2

Use a light, water-based moisturizer. Acne.org recommends moisturizers with alpha hydroxy acids as a good choice. Try adding a few drops of non-comedogenic jojoba oil to your moisturizer. Keeping your skin well moisturized may prevent excess oil production.

Step 3

Try a mattifying or anti-shine gel or primer under your makeup, suggests TotalBeauty.com. These products may not be ideal for acne-prone skin, but can help give you that polished, matte look when necessary.

Step 4

Choose cosmetics designed for oily skin. Look for oil-free and non-comedogenic products. You may find that mineral makeup works especially well, according to SkinCareBeautyZone.com. Follow up foundation with a dusting of a translucent finishing powder.

Step 5

Use oil blotting papers to remove excess oil without disturbing your makeup. These papers often come in small folders and are easy to carry in your purse or pocket.