One way you can take care of oily skin is through skincare—and the first step to this is buying a great facial wash intended for oily skin! Facial washes for oily skin are formulated differently. It helps those with oily skin to have a cleanser that effectively gets the junk out of their faces.
Below, we listed our top 10 picks for the best facial wash for oily skin, plus we created a buying with comments from board-certified dermatologist Dr. Maria Elinor Grace "Meg" Sison for our oily-skinned friends to use when they need to buy a face wash. Let's get started!
Quick List - Top Facial Washes for Oily Skin
Human Nature
Balancing Facial Wash for Oily and Combination Skin
Dr. Sison is a board-certified dermatologist who practices in the Philippines and sees both medical and cosmetic dermatological cases on skin, hair, and nails.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Meg Sison, a good rule of thumb is to wait for 20 minutes after washing the face.
This is usually how long it takes for the sebaceous glands to generate enough sebum or oil to be seen and measured accurately on the skin's surface. If the skin is shiny all over, this usually indicates oily skin.
Searching for a suitable facial wash for oily skin can be tricky and challenging. You must find a product that won't aggravate oiliness or clog your pores. With various facial washes available in the market, you must pick the one that benefits your skin the most. Learn about the factors you should consider below.
An effective facial wash for oily skin contains essential active ingredients that control excess oil and sebum, unclog pores, and give you a shine-free appearance. Additionally, it's best if it comes with ingredients that can address other skin concerns commonly associated with oily skin, including acne, blemishes, and blackheads.
When dealing with oily skin, one of the primary objectives is to control excessive oil, which causes a greasy and shiny complexion. Ingredients like salicylic acid, a BHA ingredient, can do this. While it does not directly regulate oil production, it prevents the buildup of dead skin cells and sebum, which can contribute to excess oil production.
Niacinamide regulates sebum production, reduces shine, and helps prevent acne breakout. Meanwhile, benzoyl peroxide can effectively combat acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation commonly associated with acne. They work by unclogging pores and reducing sebum production, preventing the formation of acne.
Salicylic acid is a type of beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It causes the skin cells to slough off more readily, preventing pores from clogging up because of its ability to dissolve sebum; that's why it's great for those with oily and acne-prone skin. Facial washes with salicylic acid at low concentrations (<2%) can help control excess oil production.
Niacinamide is the active form of vitamin B3. It has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, lightening, barrier protection, and photoprotection benefits. Concentrations of 2-5% are already effective.
Oily skin tends to produce excessive sebum, which can combine with other impurities on the skin and result in clogged pores and an overall dull complexion. To combat this, oily skin needs exfoliation to slough away dead skin cells and avoid clogging pores.
For that, look for AHAs like glycolic and lactic acids with skin-renewing and pore-minimizing abilities. BHA, like salicylic acid and willow bark extract, controls sebum, prevents blackheads, exfoliates lightly, and refines pores. There's also gluconolactone, a PHA known for its gentle exfoliation, suitable even for sensitive skin.
Look for ingredients like glycolic acid, lactic acid, gluconolactone, or salicylic acid. These are chemical exfoliants that can unclog pores and exfoliate dead skin cells gently.
Even oily skin requires proper moisturization. Without sufficient moisture, your skin can get dehydrated and produce even more oil in an attempt to self-hydrate. To prevent this, look for face washes with ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and, ceramides. Hyaluronic acid is a lightweight hydrator that effectively attracts water to the skin without clogging pores; that's why it's an excellent ingredient for those with oily and acne-prone skin.
On the other hand, glycerin and ceramides enhance the skin's moisture retention to maintain skin hydration and prevent dryness. They also contribute to the maintenance of the skin's natural barrier. You may also opt for those with amino acids, fatty acids, and sterols that can counter the drying effects of surfactants in foaming face washes.
Moisturizing ingredients like glycerin or glycerol, amino acids, fatty acids, sterols, and ceramides provide masking or occlusion for barrier repair and nutrients/ "pro-lipids" for maintaining a healthy skin barrier.
Fatty alcohols like cetyl alcohol and cetearyl alcohol are used as emollients in skincare products, and they are added to emulsify and enhance the viscosity of products. These fatty alcohols have minimal adverse effects, unlike simple alcohols.
Gel cleansers are recommended for all skin types because they contain milder surfactants that have a lower potential to cause skin irritation than stronger surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), commonly found in facial washes that create a rich lather. They also have a lightweight consistency that deeply cleanses the skin to decongest pores and remove excess oil without leaving a heavy residue.
Cleansers with anionic surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate tend to cause more dryness, so it is best to limit using them. Gel cleansers usually contain milder surfactants like cocamidopryl betaine and lauryl glucoside. These types of cleansers can be used for all skin types, not just for oily skin.
Foam cleansers can also be used for those with oily skin, but they tend to be more drying compared to gel cleansers because they contain more anionic surfactant.
When opting for exfoliating facial washes, it's always best to favor one that uses chemical exfoliators (AHA, BHA, and PHA) over those that use microbeads. These tiny particles can be too abrasive on your delicate facial skin. They can cause micro-tears on the skin's surface, eventually causing irritation, redness, and even aggravating conditions like acne or rosacea. They can also disrupt the skin's natural barrier, which is crucial to maintain proper skin hydration.
Facial washes with low concentrations of chemical exfoliants are definitely better because they are gentler on the skin.
Disclaimer: These products are recommendations made by our team at mybest Philippines. Our expert, Dr. Meg Sison, is not affiliated with, nor is she endorsing any of the brands we mention below.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
AHA/BHA/PHA | Salicylic Acid | Niacinamide | Moisturizing Ingredients | Net Weight | |||||
1 | Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser | ![]() | Soothing Care for Sensitive Skin | AHA | Glycerin, Panthenol | 118 mL | |||
2 | COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser | ![]() | Gentle Cleansing with Balanced Care | BHA | Allantoin, Betaine | 150 mL | |||
3 | Human Nature Face Cleanser for Oily and Combination Skin | ![]() | Balancing Facial Wash for Oily and Combination Skin | AHA | Glyceryl Oleate | 50 mL | |||
4 | Celeteque DermoScience Hydration Facial Wash | ![]() | Gentle Hydration for Soft, Balanced Skin | AHA | Glycerin, Panthenol, Sodium Lactate | 250 mL | |||
5 | Luxe Organix AHA BHA Miracle Solutions Facial Cleanser | ![]() | Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser for Clearer Skin | AHA、BHA、PHA | Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Calendula Extract | 150 mL | |||
6 | Oxecure pH5.5 Gentle Cleanser with 5x Ceramides | ![]() | Balanced Cleansing with Skin Barrier Support | AHA | Glycerin, Ceramides, Tocopheryl Acetate | 200 mL | |||
7 | Garnier Pure Active Foam For Acne Prone Skin Cleanser, Oil Control Facial Cleanser | ![]() | Clear and Oil-Free Skin Every Day | BHA | Gycerin | 100 mL | |||
8 | Belo Essentials Pore Minimizing Whitening Face Wash | ![]() | Brightening Face Wash that Minimizes Pores | PHA | Glycerin, Panthenol, Sodium PCA | 50 mL | |||
9 | Kiehl’s Calendula Deep Cleansing Foaming Face Wash for Oily Skin | ![]() | Soothing Foaming Cleanser for Oily Skin | Glycerin, Calendula Extract | 75 mL | ||||
10 | Innisfree Volcanic BHA Pore Cleansing Foam | ![]() | Deep Cleansing for Clearer, Refreshed Skin | BHA | Glycerin | 150 mL |
Features and benefits:
AHA/BHA/PHA | AHA |
---|---|
Salicylic Acid | |
Niacinamide | |
Moisturizing Ingredients | Glycerin, Panthenol |
Net Weight | 118 mL |
This cleanser is favored for restoring skin’s natural balance while addressing common concerns like enlarged pores and blemishes without irritation and note that it foams well despite being gentle, enhancing the cleansing experience.
AHA/BHA/PHA | BHA |
---|---|
Salicylic Acid | |
Niacinamide | |
Moisturizing Ingredients | Allantoin, Betaine |
Net Weight | 150 mL |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
They say this cleanser effectively controls oil and refreshes skin without drying it out. Many highlight its natural scent and gentle exfoliating effect as a plus. It may take time to see full oil control results, but overall, it is recommended for those with oily or combination skin seeking a natural option.
AHA/BHA/PHA | AHA |
---|---|
Salicylic Acid | |
Niacinamide | |
Moisturizing Ingredients | Glyceryl Oleate |
Net Weight | 50 mL |
Features and benefits:
AHA/BHA/PHA | AHA |
---|---|
Salicylic Acid | |
Niacinamide | |
Moisturizing Ingredients | Glycerin, Panthenol, Sodium Lactate |
Net Weight | 250 mL |
AHA/BHA/PHA | AHA、BHA、PHA |
---|---|
Salicylic Acid | |
Niacinamide | |
Moisturizing Ingredients | Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Calendula Extract |
Net Weight | 150 mL |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
This cleanser is gentle yet effective in removing dirt without drying out their skin and how it calms sensitive skin and reduces redness over time. Some note it’s suitable for both face and body, making it versatile for daily use.
AHA/BHA/PHA | AHA |
---|---|
Salicylic Acid | |
Niacinamide | |
Moisturizing Ingredients | Glycerin, Ceramides, Tocopheryl Acetate |
Net Weight | 200 mL |
Features and benefits:
Users appreciate how this cleanser effectively reduces pimples and controls oil without over-drying their skin. Many note its refreshing scent and easy-to-rinse foam texture. Some mention it may not remove heavy makeup completely, so a separate makeup remover is recommended.
AHA/BHA/PHA | BHA |
---|---|
Salicylic Acid | |
Niacinamide | |
Moisturizing Ingredients | Gycerin |
Net Weight | 100 mL |
Many users praise this cleanser for effectively controlling oil and making their skin look clearer and brighter within a week. Many appreciate its gentle feel without causing dryness or irritation and some note the scent is noticeable but not overpowering, and a few suggest consistent use for best results.
AHA/BHA/PHA | PHA |
---|---|
Salicylic Acid | |
Niacinamide | |
Moisturizing Ingredients | Glycerin, Panthenol, Sodium PCA |
Net Weight | 50 mL |
They say that this cleanser gently cleanses without causing tightness or dryness, making it ideal for oily and sensitive skin and appreciate its soothing effect on redness and the light, pleasant scent. Some mention it helps reduce breakouts when used consistently, while a few suggest it may not fully remove heavy makeup.
AHA/BHA/PHA | |
---|---|
Salicylic Acid | |
Niacinamide | |
Moisturizing Ingredients | Glycerin, Calendula Extract |
Net Weight | 75 mL |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
Users praise this cleanser for effectively controlling oil and reducing acne without drying out their skin and highlight its creamy foam texture and refreshing feel after use. Some mention it helps minimize pores and smooth skin with consistent use, though a few suggest it may not fully remove heavy makeup.
AHA/BHA/PHA | BHA |
---|---|
Salicylic Acid | |
Niacinamide | |
Moisturizing Ingredients | Glycerin |
Net Weight | 150 mL |
We know that having oily skin could be really troubling! Let us help you address more of your woes, as Dr. Meg Sison answers the concerns and questions most oily-skinned individuals have.
Cleansing should be done in the morning, evening, and after exercise for oily, acne-prone skin to prevent disruption of your skin barrier.
High levels of cortisol as a result of stress increase the activity of sebaceous glands, making the skin oilier and more prone to acne breakouts. Other factors that can also influence sebum production include diet, hormones, exercise, and genetics.0
Synthetic detergents (syndets) are more appropriate because these are formulated to match the skin's slightly acidic pH and they contain milder surfactants.
A facial wash is only the start of great skincare. To properly take care of your oily skin, you need other products to make sure that you will always have a healthy and bright glow. Confused about where to begin? Check out the links below for your next skincare best friend!
Re-editor: Mary Adeliz Tabaloc
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: Cetaphil|Gentle Skin Cleanser
No. 2: COSRX|Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
No. 3: Human Nature|Face Cleanser for Oily and Combination Skin
No. 4: Celeteque DermoScience|Hydration Facial Wash
No. 5: Luxe Organix|AHA BHA Miracle Solutions Facial Cleanser
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
Beauty
Health
Household goods
PCs and laptops
Home appliances and electronics
Cameras
Food and drinks
Kitchen supplies
Clothing
Shoes
Accessories
Mom and baby
Interior and furniture
Hobbies
Outdoor
DIY and tools
Sports and fitness
Pets
Books, CDs, and DVDs
Games
Cars and motorcycles
Gifts
Home improvement and tools
Smartphones and tablets
Banking and finance
Insurance
Audio
Smartphone applications
Others