By Struggling with oily skin, frequent breakouts, or an overly shiny T-zone? You’re not alone—and the solution might just lie in the world of K-beauty. Known for its gentle yet powerful formulations, Korean skincare offers some of the best products for oily skin, designed to balance sebum production, prevent acne, and leave your skin hydrated—not greasy.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top Korean skincare products for oily skin, how to use them in your routine, and what ingredients to look for in 2024.
Why Korean Skin Care Works for Oily Skin
Korean skincare focuses on hydration, gentle exfoliation, and barrier support, which are essential for managing oily skin without over-drying.
Benefits of Korean Skincare for Oily Skin:
- Oil-free hydration
- Non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores)
- Multi-layered routines that target specific concerns
- Plant-based, calming ingredients
Contrary to popular belief, oily skin still needs hydration—starving it of moisture can make oil production worse.
Best Korean Skin Care Products for Oily Skin (2024)
Cleanser – Balance Without Stripping
COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
- Gentle, pH-balanced formula
- Contains tea tree oil and BHA to unclog pores
- Ideal for morning and night use
Some By Mi AHA-BHA-PHA Miracle Cleansing Bar
- Contains exfoliants to reduce blackheads
- Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties
Toner – Refresh, Exfoliate, Control Oil
Isntree Green Tea Fresh Toner
- Rich in antioxidants
- Balances oil and soothes irritated skin
- Alcohol-free and ideal for daily use
Benton Aloe BHA Skin Toner
- Combines hydration with salicylic acid (BHA)
- Great for acne-prone and oily complexions
Essence/Serum – Lightweight & Targeted Treatment
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% (Widely used in K-beauty routines)
- Regulates oil production
- Minimizes pore appearance
COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid
- Deeply exfoliates to prevent acne
- Clears out sebum and dead skin cells
Beauty of Joseon Calming Serum: Green Tea + Panthenol
- Lightweight and soothing
- Controls oil while calming redness
Moisturizer – Hydrate Without Heaviness
Etude House SoonJung Hydro Barrier Cream
- Oil-free, hypoallergenic formula
- Perfect for sensitive and oily skin
Belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb
- Gel-based, water-light texture
- Absorbs instantly without shine
IUNIK Centella Calming Gel Cream
- Soothes inflammation and hydrates skin
- Great for oily, acne-prone skin types
Sunscreen – Essential for Oily Skin Protection
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF 50+
- Lightweight, non-greasy finish
- Leaves no white cast and nourishes the skin
Innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 36
- Water-based, breathable texture
- Controls oil and protects against UV rays
Pro Skincare Routine for Oily Skin (K-Beauty Style)
| Step | Product Type | Purpose |
|
Cleanser | Removes dirt and oil buildup |
|
Toner | Balances skin and preps for hydration |
|
Essence/Serum | Treats breakouts, sebum, and texture |
|
Moisturizer | Locks in moisture without clogging pores |
|
Sunscreen (AM) | Protects from UV damage and pigmentation |
Use a clay mask (e.g., Innisfree Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask) 1–2 times a week for extra oil control.
Key Ingredients to Look For in Korean Products for Oily Skin
| Ingredient | Benefits |
| Niacinamide | Minimizes pores, reduces sebum |
| Salicylic Acid (BHA) | Exfoliates and clears breakouts |
| Green Tea | Soothes and controls oil |
| Centella Asiatica | Reduces inflammation, heals skin |
| Tea Tree Oil | Antibacterial, great for acne |
Avoid products with heavy oils, silicones, and artificial fragrances.
Conclusion
The right Korean skin care products for oily skin can help you manage shine, prevent breakouts, and give your skin a healthy, matte glow. With ingredients like niacinamide, green tea, and salicylic acid, K-beauty brands offer solutions that are gentle, effective, and affordable.
Whether you’re battling acne, oily T-zones, or uneven texture, K-beauty’s step-by-step approach gives your skin everything it needs to stay balanced and clear.
FAQs
1. Is Korean skincare good for oily skin?
Yes! Korean skincare focuses on hydrating and balancing, which is ideal for oily and acne-prone skin.
2. What’s the best Korean serum for oily skin?
COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid and The Ordinary Niacinamide + Zinc are top-rated for sebum control and pore care.
3. Should I moisturize if I have oily skin?
Absolutely. Skipping moisturizer can increase oil production. Just use a lightweight, gel-based formula.
4. Can oily skin use Beauty of Joseon sunscreen?
Yes! It’s lightweight and non-greasy, making it perfect for oily and combo skin types.
5. How often should I exfoliate oily skin?
Use chemical exfoliants (like BHA) 2–3 times a week to keep pores clear and reduce oil buildup.
Also read: Mens Korean Skin Care: The Ultimate 2024 Guide to K-Beauty for Men
