How To Take Care of Oily Skin in Humid Weather

Oily skin is a common skin condition but did you know that your skin’s oil production isn't the same all year round?1 Humid weather can make your skin more oily and if this is something that affects you, then there are some actions you can take. Let’s take a look at how to control oily skin in humid weather.

Signs of oily skin

The small oil-producing glands found in your hair follicles are called sebaceous glands, and when these glands produce excessive amounts of oil, called sebum, you may get shiny skin that feels greasy.1 Although it isn’t really known why some people produce more sebum than others, oily skin is a common occurrence.

Several factors can cause you to produce more sebum, such as hormonal changes, but for some people humid weather can be a trigger. Your sebum production can change depending on the humidity of your environment and the time of year.[1] Research shows that sebum secretion rises and flows more easily with higher temperatures, possibly because of its increased fluidity.[2]

Oily skin can lead to acne breakouts as well as enlarged or blocked pores, fueling the growth of bacteria on the skin. These symptoms work together, as larger pores equal a larger amount of sebum production.[3]

If you’re noticing that your skin is becoming oily in humid weather, there are things you can do to help manage it.

woman washing her face to avoid oily skin

Tips to control oily skin in humid weather

Many people think that drying out the skin will decrease oil production. However, this isn’t true. Harsh face cleansers can irritate your skin and trigger even more sebum production.4 Instead, use a gentle face wash like Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser Fragrance Free.

Here are our top tips on taking care of oily skin in humid weather:

Follow a Regular Skincare Routine

Your skincare routine should be regular, gentle, and kind to your skin. You want to avoid products that are too harsh, abrasive, or drying.

Here's an easy-to-follow regime to get you started:

Wash Your Face

Wash your face at least twice a day, morning and night, and additionally after exercise. Do not forget to remove your makeup before going to sleep to avoid blocked pores.4 Use Cetaphil Gentle Makeup Removing Wipes for your makeup and a mild face wash, such as Cetaphil DermaControl Oil Removing Foam Wash.

It’s important not to overwash and dry out your skin. Your skin naturally produces oils and needs them for protection and smoothness.[4] The key is to keep the oils in balance.

Use a Gentle Cleanser

Use a soap-free cleanser, such as Cetaphil Deep Cleansing Bar. It’s hypoallergenic, free from any harsh chemicals, and preserves the skin’s natural oils without drying it out.

Moisturize

Moisturize with a product that helps your skin keep its natural balance of oils. Cetaphil Dermacontrol Oil Absorbing Moisturizer SPF 30 won’t clog your pores and can help reduce shine.

Exfoliate – but not too often

Exfoliate – but not too often. You'll need to find the right schedule for your skin type, but keep in mind that over-exfoliation can lead to red, irritated skin.[5]

Use Facial Skincare Masks

Use face masks. A product like Cetaphil Dermacontrol Purifying Clay Mask retains moisture in your skin while unclogging your pores.

Wear Sunscreen Every Day

Wear sunscreen every day. Cetaphil's mineral sunscreens work to block both UVA and UVB rays that cause skin damage, sunburn, age spots, wrinkles, and skin cancer. Mineral sunscreens are recommended for acne-prone skin.[4]

If you have sensitive skin with a consistently oily T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) and dryness in other areas, check out our recommended routine for combination to oily skin.

Use Oil-Free and Non-Comedogenic Products

To help keep your oily skin healthy and irritation-free, you need to avoid heavy and emollient-based skincare products. Instead, use products that support your skin.

There are two key phrases to keep in mind when it comes to skincare products: “oil-free” and “non-comedogenic”. When your skin is becoming more oily in the summer, the last thing you want to do is use a product that adds more oil. Check out Cetaphil Daily Oil-Free Hydrating Lotion, a water-based moisturizer.

The term “non-comedogenic” means that a product won't clog your pores. Blocked pores expand and become more noticeable.[6] They can also lead to acne breakouts and upset the balance of bacteria on your skin, leaving you more prone to irritation.

oil-free non-comedogenic facial cleanser

Hydrate and avoid certain foods

What you eat and drink might play a role too in controlling oily skin in humid weather.

Some studies suggest that a diet very high in fat and carbs could increase your sebum production, and that foods high on the glycemic index, like white bread, cornflakes, and sugary drinks can have unpleasant consequences for your skin.7

If you experience oily skin, try including low-glycemic foods, especially foods rich in antioxidants such as fresh fruit, vegetables, beans, and oats in your diet to see if it helps.[8]

When the sweltering temperatures come out to play, make sure you drink enough water. Keeping yourself hydrated is one of the best things you can do for your health, as it helps replace lost fluids. Staying hydrated can also help to improve your skin thickness and density.[9]

Try Not To Touch Your Face During The Day

Did you know the average person unintentionally touches their face 23 times per hour?10 Although this simple gesture may feel harmless and natural, touching your face with your hands can spread dirt, oil, germs, and bacteria. So remember to wash your hands regularly and try not to touch your face too often.

The Bottom Line

You now have some useful tips on how to control oily skin in humid weather. With a good skincare regime, gentle products, and a few lifestyle changes, you can now enjoy humid weather with confidence.

References

Endly DC, Miller RA. Oily skin: A review of treatment options. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2017;10(8):49-55. PMID: 28979664.
Abdallah MAR, Zuelfakkar NM, Elbana RH. Comparative study of male and female sebum production. The Egypt J Hospital Med. 2017;69(2), 1874-1879. doi: 10.12816/0040616
Sakuma TH, Maibach HI. Oily Skin: An Overview. Skin Pharmacol Physiol. 2012;25:227-235. doi:10.1159/000338978.
How to control oily skin. American Academy of Dermatology Association. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/dry/oily-skin Accessed January 6, 2023.
How to safely exfoliate at home. American Academy of Dermatology Association. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/routine/safely-exfoliate-at-home Accessed January 6, 2023.
What can treat large facial pores? American Academy of Dermatology Association. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/face/treat-large-pores Accessed January 6, 2023.
Picardo M, Ottaviani M, Camera E, Mastrofrancesco A. Sebaceous gland lipids. Dermatoendocrinol. 2009;1(2):68-71. doi:10.4161/derm.1.2.8472.
Can the right diet get rid of acne? American Academy of Dermatology Association. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne/causes/diet Accessed January 6, 2023.
Popkin BM, D'Anci KE, Rosenberg IH. Water, hydration, and health. Nutr Rev. 2010;68(8):439-58. doi: 10.1111/j.1753-4887.2010.00304.x.
Facial cleanliness. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/hygiene/personal-hygiene/face.html Published 2022. Accessed January 6, 2023.