Your Summer Skincare Guide for Oil-Prone Skin

Summer’s heat and humidity can make oily skin feel like it’s constantly in overdrive, but fear not! With the right skincare routine, you can transform your complexion from greasy to glowy. From lightweight SPF to refreshing cleansers and hydrating moisturisers, we’ve rounded up the best products to keep you fresh, protected, and shine-free all season long. Ready to embrace that healthy, dewy glow—without the grease? Let’s dive in.

Step 1: Cleanse
A good summer cleanser for oily skin should do more than just clean—it needs to cut through sweat, sunscreen, and excess sebum without disrupting your skin barrier. Look for gel or foam formulas with ingredients like salicylic acid or niacinamide, which help decongest pores and reduce oil production. Avoid anything too harsh or drying, as that can actually trigger more oil in the long run.

PAUL & JOE | Cleansing Gel

Perfect for oily skin, PAUL & JOE’s Cleansing Gel is a refreshing, non-sticky formula that effortlessly dissolves makeup and excess sebum while keeping skin hydrated and balanced. Enriched with antioxidant-rich olive oil, sage oil, and lavender water, it soothes and regenerates the skin, leaving it soft, bouncy, and trouble-free. Finished with a fresh ocean breeze scent inspired by the Mediterranean, this cleanser offers a luxurious cleanse that supports clear, radiant skin.

Available at Amazon.

LANEIGE | Water Bank Gentle Gel Cleanser

Hydration meets balance with LANEIGE’s Water Bank Gentle Gel Cleanser, a lightweight formula that deeply cleanses without stripping the skin. Infused with blue hyaluronic acid, allantoin, and amino acids, this foaming gel removes makeup, sunscreen, and impurities while helping to repair the moisture barrier. Ideal for oily or combination skin, it supports a smoother texture and fresh, radiant finish—perfect for maintaining clarity and hydration in one step.

Available at Cult Beauty.

Dermatology M | Honeysuckle Cleanser

This gentle, soap-free face wash is enriched with a calming blend of traditional Chinese herbs, making it ideal for oily, sensitive, and acne-prone skin. Featuring Jin Yin Hua (honeysuckle) to soothe and hydrate, Gan Cao (liquorice root) to brighten and balance, and rose geranium oil to reduce redness, it effectively cleanses pores while rebalancing excess oil. Non-drying and 91% naturally derived, this UK-made cleanser leaves skin soft, calm, and visibly clearer—perfect for daily use on even the most delicate complexions.

Available at Dermatology M.

Step 2: Treat

Oily skin still requires targeted treatments, especially during the summer. Focus on products that address specific concerns such as excess oil, redness, irritation, and uneven texture, while also providing hydration without clogging pores. Look for treatments that help improve skin clarity, reduce the appearance of blemishes, and refine skin texture. Lightweight serums and moisturisers can provide deep hydration and support the skin barrier, while offering anti-inflammatory benefits to calm and soothe skin.

For summer, opt for products that offer both hydration and targeted care—whether it’s reducing redness, promoting smooth texture, or supporting skin recovery after treatments.

KIKO Milano | Hydra Pro Serum

KIKO Milano Hydra Pro Serum is a deeply moisturising facial serum designed to deliver up to 48 hours of continuous hydration. Enriched with the exclusive Hyalu+Rose Complex—a blend of hyaluronic acid, sustainably sourced Italian rose extract, Liposphere Matrix Technology, and Actiglow—it offers a sensorial experience that leaves the skin visibly smoother, softer, and more elastic from the very first application. Clinical tests show a 21.2% increase in skin hydration just 15 minutes after application, with lasting improvements of 8.4% after 28 days of continued use. 

Available at KIKO Milano.

lelive | crème de la cream lightweight hydration moisturiser

crème de la cream is a light, nourishing moisturiser designed to hydrate, brighten, and firm without weighing the skin down. Perfect for normal, oily, or combination skin and ideal for both day and night use, it blends powerful botanicals like African mahogany, marula, baobab, and rosehip with peptides and panthenol to support skin elasticity, even tone, and strengthen the barrier. In a 4-week trial, 95% of users reported lasting hydration and 94% loved its lightweight, non-greasy feel. Vegan, cruelty-free, pregnancy-safe, and dermatologist approved—this is clean beauty at its best.

Available at lelive.

Zelens | Glacier Foam

Zelens Glacier Foam is a luxurious, clarifying cleanser that gently exfoliates while effectively removing excess oil, makeup, and environmental impurities. Powered by sustainably derived succinic acid, mild fruit AHAs, fermented enzymes, and botanical extracts, it supports skin renewal and balances oily complexions without stripping hydration.

Available at Zelens.

Simon Ourian M.D. | Salicylic Acid Clarifying Cleanser

Designed for oily, breakout-prone skin, Simon Ourian’s Salicylic Acid Clarifying Cleanser delivers a deep cleanse while targeting excess oil, blackheads, and blemishes. Formulated with micro-exfoliating salicylic acid and antibacterial tea tree oil, it unclogs pores and supports a clearer complexion. Witch hazel and panthenol calm and soothe the skin, making it ideal for daily use.

Available at Simon Ourian M.D.

Rodial | Bee Venom Cleansing Balm

This luxurious cleansing balm transforms into a milky toner upon contact with water, offering a dual-action cleanse that melts away makeup while brightening and firming the skin. Infused with bee venom to plump fine lines and wrinkles, it also contains nourishing almond, jojoba, and wheatgerm oils to soften and hydrate. Amino acids and salicylic acid work together to improve uneven skin tone, making it the perfect choice for those with dry skin looking to achieve a brighter, firmer complexion. 

Available at Rodial.

Matter of Fact | Minimalist Hydrating Moisturiser

This lightweight yet deeply hydrating moisturizer is powered by 5% Pro-Vitamin B5, skin-mimicking Liquid Crystal Lipids, and soothing Centella Asiatica to replenish moisture, calm sensitivity, and strengthen the skin barrier. With a creamy texture that melts in without heaviness, it’s ideal for sensitive, combination, or acne-prone skin and pairs beautifully with active treatments. In a 2-week independent study, 96% of participants reported visibly smoother, more hydrated, and brighter skin, with improved texture and overall appearance.

Available at Matter of Fact.

NOON | Igloo Moist 24/7

Igloo Moist 24/7 is a professional-grade hydrating moisturizer designed to deliver long-lasting moisture, cooling relief, and anti-inflammatory benefits to all skin types. Formulated for post-treatment care, it soothes irritation, reduces redness, and supports skin recovery following procedures like chemical peels or IPL. Enriched with powerful calming agents, it improves elasticity and firmness while helping to delay visible signs of aging—making it an ideal choice for sensitive, reactive, or problem-prone skin at any age.

Available at Acre Pharmacy.

Paula’s Choice | Pro Retinaldehyde Dual-Retinoid Treatment

Clinically proven to improve texture, reduce lines, and clarify blemish-prone skin, this potent formula features 0.1% Retinaldehyde—a direct precursor to retinoic acid—and 0.16% Oleyl Adapalenate, an oil-soluble retinoid that binds directly to retinoic acid receptors. Encapsulated in calcium phosphate for enhanced tolerability, it’s further boosted with antioxidant-rich pomegranate peel and a bio-fermented yeast and mushroom complex to support collagen production and skin barrier function.

Available at Paula’s Choice.

Rosalique | 3 in 1 Anti-Redness Miracle Formula SPF 50

Rosalique’s 3 in 1 Anti-Redness Miracle Formula is a clinically proven solution for sensitive, redness-prone skin, combining skincare, colour correction, and sun protection in one step. Its gentle green tint instantly neutralises redness, while ingredients like α-Bisabolol, Zeolite, Provitamin B5, Urea, and Shea Butter soothe, hydrate, and strengthen the skin barrier. With broad-spectrum SPF50, it offers daily protection against UV damage—making it an ideal choice for calming, concealing, and caring for delicate skin.

Available at Amazon.

Step 3: Protect

Sunscreen is non-negotiable, but many traditional formulas can feel greasy or heavy on oily skin. The trick is to go for lightweight, non-comedogenic SPFs that offer broad-spectrum protection without the slick finish. Mattifying, mineral-based formulas are often a great fit, especially those designed to double as a primer under makeup.

Elemental Herbology | Smart Screen SPF 50 Moisturiser

The Smart Screen SPF 50 Moisturiser offers superior protection with a lightweight, non-greasy formula designed to shield your skin from sun damage, blue light, and environmental pollutants. Enriched with Pollustop® and Aquaceria, this moisturiser provides high-level SPF 50+ protection while helping to hydrate and soothe the skin with Provitamin B5 and Vitamin E. Its vegan, silicone-free, and fragrance-free composition ensures a gentle yet effective experience, leaving skin feeling soft, comfortable, and fully protected.

Available at Elemental Herbology.

Dussl | Daily Protection Moisturiser SPF 50

Protect your face and neck from daily UV exposure with this fast-absorbing, lightweight SPF 50 moisturiser. Offering broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection, it provides long-lasting hydration while delivering a matte finish that feels invisible on the skin. Powered by Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) for brightening, Hyaluronic Acid for hydration, and blue light stem cell technology, it’s the ultimate daily moisturiser for all skin types. Dermatologically tested and designed to be gender-neutral, this multi-purpose formula is perfect for both men and women. Use it daily as the final step in your AM skincare routine for healthy, protected skin.

Available at Dussl.

Monpure | SPF 50 Sunscreen Scalp and Face

This lightweight, broad-spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen offers invisible, non-greasy protection for both the scalp and face, shielding against UVA and UVB damage. Formulated with Multi-Molecular Weight Hyaluronic Acid, it provides deep, multi-layered hydration that improves elasticity and locks in moisture. Niacinamide helps even out skin tone, reduce redness, and enhance texture for a brighter, smoother complexion. Blue Light Stem Cell Technology further protects against skin discomfort and photosensitivity. The fast-absorbing, residue-free formula ensures hydration without weighing down hair, leaving the skin and scalp protected, smooth, and refreshed.

Available at Monpure.

Super Facialist | Vitamin C+ Brighten & Defend SPF50+ Serum

This feather-light, fast-absorbing serum combines the protective benefits of SPF50+ with the brightening power of 1% Vitamin C. Offering broad-spectrum UV protection, it shields your skin from harmful rays and environmental stressors while enhancing skin radiance. Infused with Hyaluronic Acid, Ferulic Acid, and Aloe Vera, it hydrates, soothes, and delivers a glowing complexion without any greasy residue. Dermatologically tested and fragrance-free, this non-comedogenic formula is perfect for acne-prone skin. 

Available at Super Facialist.

GAIA | Mineral SPF 25+ Moisturiser

GAIA's Mineral SPF Moisturiser is a nourishing daily sunscreen designed to protect your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays with SPF 25+ protection. Formulated with non-nano zinc oxide, it offers a powerful, chemical-free barrier against the sun, making it perfect for those seeking a natural and effective sunscreen. Enriched with Apricot Kernel oil, it helps improve skin tone and maintain hydration, while Geranium essential oils provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits to soothe and protect the skin.

Available at GAIA.

Emma Hardie | Protect and Prime SPF30

This lightweight, non-greasy cream provides broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection, guarding the skin for up to eight hours against UVA and UVB damage. Formulated with Mongongo Oil, Oat Extract, and Vitamin E, it helps protect against premature ageing, sun damage, and environmental stress. The unique light-diffusing formula also primes the skin, evens out the complexion, and blurs the appearance of fine lines and pores, making it an ideal base for makeup or a flawless, natural finish.

Available at Emma Hardie.

Mecca Cosmetica | To Save Face SPF50+ Matte Sun Serum

This lightweight SPF50+ sun serum combines powerful sun protection with skincare benefits. It offers broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection while helping control shine and refine pores with White Willow Bark. Gluconolactone smooths the skin’s texture, leaving a matte finish without clogging pores or creating a greasy residue. Perfect for daily use, this non-comedogenic formula ensures a shine-free look while protecting the skin from harmful sun exposure. Ideal for layering under makeup for an even matte finish.

Available at Mecca Cosmetica.

Sensilis | Mat Gel 50 Invisible

This lightweight, invisible mattifying gel offers high-level UVA and UVB protection while providing hydration, soothing, and anti-aging benefits. Enriched with Hyaluronic Acid for moisture, Allantoin for soothing, Schisandra Chinensis for anti-aging, and Vitamin E for antioxidant protection, it leaves the skin feeling soft and light. The gel has been tested to reduce shine by 30.7% in just 20 minutes and provides 6% hydration after 8 hours. Ideal for all skin types, especially oily skin, it delivers a mattifying effect and long-lasting protection.

Available at Sensilis.