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Face washes and Cleansers for Oily skin
If you have oily skin, you know it can feel like a never-ending battle to manage that shiny look and keep breakouts at bay.
Our skin naturally produces oil to keep it hydrated, but too much can lead to that greasy appearance and clogged pores.
Thankfully, there are many face washes out there that can help with this issue.
The key is to find one that not only removes excess oil but also keeps your skin’s moisture intact.
According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Hadley King, beta-hydroxy acid (like salicylic acid) is a top ingredient for dissolving oil.
Antibacterial tea tree oil is another great option for controlling shine and preventing acne.
Formulated with specialized ingredients, these face washes effectively combat the challenges associated with oily skin, such as shine, enlarged pores, and a predisposition to acne.
Finding the right face wash for oily skin is not just about cleansing—it is about achieving a balanced, refreshed complexion that helps you put your best face forward every day.
If you have oily or very oily skin, I would definitely recommend a face wash that contains salicylic acid, as it is a proven and effective ingredient for oily and acne-prone skin.
However, if you are sensitive to salicylic acid, you can opt for a face wash that contains other ingredients like tea tree oil and turmeric.
In this article, we will explore some of the best face washes and cleansers designed specifically for oily and acne-prone skin in Pakistan.
List of Best Face Washes and Cleansers for Oily Skin in Pakistan
- Physiogel – Red Soothing Cica Balance + Ac Foam Face Wash
- Cerave Foaming Facial Cleanser Oil Control
- Garnier Men Oil Clear Face Wash
- Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser
- Metafil OS (Oily Skin) Cleanser
- Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash
- Jenpharm Mandelac Face Wash
- Conatural Tea Tree And Neem Face Wash
- Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem Face Wash
- Beautenic Tea Tree Oil With Salicylic Acid Face Wash
1. Physiogel – Red Soothing Cica Balance + Ac Foam Face Wash For Oily Skin
PHYSIOGEL Red Soothing Cica Balance + AC Foam is the ultimate solution for those seeking a deep, gentle cleanse for oily acne-prone skin.
This pH 5.5 Foam Cleanser by Etude House, enriched with cicamile (madecassoside with chamomile extract), effectively addresses oil and acne-related concerns while maintaining your skin’s essential moisture.
Transforming into soft bubbles that gently envelop your skin, this nourishing cleanser ensures a thorough cleanse without the worry of dryness.
Price: 4,275 PKR (At Publish Time)
Quantity: 120 ml
2. Cerave Foaming Facial Cleanser Oil Control
CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser is an ideal choice for normal to oily skin. This formulation, enriched with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide, is carefully crafted to retain moisture, calm the skin, and maintain its natural protective barrier.
Say goodbye to excess oil, dirt, and makeup as this cleanser works its magic.
Designed with dermatologists, it deeply cleanses without drying, removes excess oil, and refreshes your skin, leaving it feeling revitalized.
Price: 6,222 PKR
Quantity: 273 ml
3. Garnier Men Oil Clear Face Wash
Garnier Men Oil Clear Clay D-Tox Facewash is a skin-purifying solution designed to thoroughly cleanse dust, dirt, pollution, and trapped sweat beneath the skin’s surface.
It achieves this deep clean while preserving essential oils, courtesy of the included mineral clay.
Feel the refreshing effect of menthol, providing a cooling sensation for revitalized and fresh-looking skin throughout the day.
Price: 583 PKR
Qunatity: 100 ml
4. Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser
Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser is a gentle gel formula that is easy on your skin. Packed with Niacinamide and Panthenol, it works to get rid of extra oil, dirt, makeup, and debris.
Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser goes deep to clean your pores without making your skin dry, keeping your skin’s natural barrier intact.
Perfect for both morning and evening cleansing, it’s dermatologically tested, soap-free, and won’t clog your pores.
Price: 5,050 PKR
Quantity: 236 ml
5. Metafil OS (Oily Skin) Cleanser
Metafil OS (Pakistani brand) is a gentle foaming cleanser designed for oily, acne-prone, and combination skin.
It effectively removes excess oil, dirt, and makeup without stripping the skin of its natural oils. The formula rinses off easily, leaving no pore-clogging residue.
It is pH balanced and non-comedogenic, ensuring it would not irritate your skin.
Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate (gentle on skin) is used as a surfactant in the cleanser.
Price: 1,098 PKR
Quantity: 120 ml
Related: Glycolic Acid in Skincare: Benefits, Side Effects, and How to Use
6. Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash
Elevate your skincare routine with Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Face Wash, featuring a potent 2% salicylic acid acne treatment to combat and prevent breakouts while ensuring a smooth and cleansed complexion.
The salicylic acid acne treatment not only addresses current concerns but also works proactively to prevent future breakouts in one simple step.
Harness the power of MicroClear technology, clinically proven to enhance the delivery of salicylic acid, effectively clearing acne, pimples, and blackheads.
Price: 2,399 PKR
Quantity: 269 ml
7. Jenpharm Mandelac Face Wash
Experience the epitome of clear skin with Pakistan’s best-selling, dermatologist-recommended anti-acne face wash, infused with 3% mandelic acid.
Mandelic acid, a gentle type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), works effectively to combat acne while being kind to your skin.
Witness the transformation:
- Bid farewell to dark spots.
- Post-acne marks are visibly reduced, leaving behind a flawless complexion.
- Enjoy an even skin tone and improved texture.
- Mildly exfoliate dead skin cells for a rejuvenated feel.
- Combat signs of aging, ensuring your skin stays youthful and radiant.
Price: 998 PKR
Quantity: 100ml
8. Conatural Tea Tree And Neem Face Wash
Tea Tree and Neem Face Wash is the perfect choice for daily acne care, catering to oily and acne-prone skin.
This gentle yet effective face wash dissolves dirt and daily impurities without causing irritation or stripping the skin of its essential moisture.
The natural combination of tea tree and neem brings together their powerful antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Price: 1,150 PKR
Quantity: 150 ml
9. Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem Face Wash
Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem Face Wash is a herbal remedy designed for those dealing with oily skin and breakouts in Pakistan.
Specifically crafted to tackle the challenges presented by our climate, this face wash harnesses the power of natural ingredients like neem and turmeric, celebrated for their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
It is important to note that it carries a herbal scent, which might not be to everyone’s liking.
It is very affordable and is designed for normal to oily skin types.
Price: 490 PKR
Quantity: 150 ml
10. Beautenic Tea Tree Oil With Salicylic Acid Facewash
Beautenic Tea Tree Oil with Salicylic Acid Facewash is a non-sticky, hydrating face wash tailored for oily skin in Pakistan.
Clinically approved, it boasts a powerful formula featuring 2% Salicylic Acid and the natural goodness of Tea Tree Oil, tackling oily skin with precision.
This dynamic duo actively works to reduce both active acne and marks by controlling excess oil, promoting a more even skin tone.
Price: 595 PKR
What is Oily Skin?
Oily skin is a common skin type where the sebaceous glands produce excess sebum (natural oil), making the skin appear shiny and greasy, especially in areas like the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin).
While sebum helps protect and hydrate the skin, too much of it can lead to clogged pores and acne.
Oily skin is often associated with the following characteristics:
Characteristics/Signs of Oily Skin
1. Shiny Appearance
The skin may appear shiny or greasy, particularly in the T-zone.
2. Large Pores
Oily skin often has visibly enlarged pores, especially on the nose, cheeks, and forehead.
3. Acne-Prone
Excess oil can clog pores, leading to whiteheads, blackheads, and acne breakouts.
4. Thicker Skin Texture
Oily skin tends to have a thicker texture, which might make it less prone to fine lines but more susceptible to breakouts.
5. Frequent Makeup Sliding
People with oily skin may notice that their makeup slides off or doesn’t last long due to the extra oil.
Factors That Influence Oily Skin
Oily skin is often influenced by a combination of genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors.
1. Hormonal Changes
Hormonal fluctuations, such as during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, can stimulate sebum production.
2. Climate
Hot and humid environments can exacerbate oil production.
3. Overwashing
Using harsh cleansers or overwashing the face can strip the skin’s natural oils, causing it to produce even more sebum to compensate.
4. Diet
High-glycemic foods (e.g., sugar and refined carbs) may contribute to oiliness by increasing inflammation and hormonal activity.
5. Wrong Skincare Products
Using products not suited for oily skin, such as heavy creams or oils, can clog pores and worsen oiliness.
How to Choose the Right Face Wash for Oily Skin
Look for Oil-Control Ingredients
Choose face washes with active ingredients that help regulate oil production and prevent clogged pores. Examples include:
Salicylic Acid: A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates pores to remove excess oil and dead skin cells.
Niacinamide: A form of vitamin B3 that helps control oil production, reduce pore size, and calm inflammation.
Clay: Ingredients like kaolin or bentonite clay absorb excess oil and provide a mattifying effect.
Avoid Pore-Clogging Ingredients
Stay away from heavy, oily ingredients like mineral oil or lanolin. Instead, opt for non-comedogenic products that won’t block pores.
Focus on Gentle Formulas
Harsh cleansers that strip the skin of all oils can trigger overproduction of sebum. Look for gel-based or foaming cleansers that balance oil without over-drying.
Consider Anti-Acne Properties
If you are prone to breakouts, select face washes with anti-acne ingredients like tea tree oil, sulfur, or benzoyl peroxide to keep your skin clear.
Check for Lightweight, Non-Greasy Formulas
Choose lightweight, water-based cleansers that leave your skin feeling refreshed and clean without a greasy residue.
How to Use Face Wash on Oily Skin
Proper face-washing techniques can make a significant difference in managing oily skin:
Wash Twice a Day
Cleanse your face in the morning and evening. Avoid overwashing, as it can lead to excessive oil production.
Use Lukewarm Water
Hot water can strip the skin of moisture, while cold water may not effectively remove oil.
Massage Gently
Use gentle, circular motions for 20–30 seconds to ensure the cleanser penetrates your pores.
Rinse Thoroughly
Make sure to remove all cleanser to prevent residue from clogging your pores.
Follow with a Toner
Use an alcohol-free toner to remove excess oil and tighten pores.
Moisturize
Even oily skin needs hydration! Opt for a lightweight, oil-free, and non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep your skin balanced.
Best Ingredients in Face Washes for Oily Skin
When selecting a face wash for oily skin, prioritize the following ingredients:
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid penetrates deep into pores to dissolve oil and clear out dead skin cells, reducing blackheads and whiteheads.
Charcoal
Acts as a natural detoxifier, absorbing excess oil and drawing out impurities from the pores.
Clay
Helps mattify the skin by absorbing oil and controlling shine throughout the day.
Tea Tree Oil
Has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce acne and control oil.
Niacinamide
Regulates sebum production, soothes redness, and improves the skin’s overall texture.
Green Tea Extract
An antioxidant that helps control oil and reduce inflammation, making it great for acne-prone skin.
Zinc PCA
A mineral that regulates oil production and minimizes breakouts by reducing bacterial growth.
By choosing a face wash with these ingredients and following a proper skincare routine, you can keep your oily skin healthy, clear, and balanced.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, managing oily skin requires a thoughtful approach and the right skincare products tailored to your needs.
By understanding the traits of oily skin and choosing face washes with effective, oil-controlling ingredients, you can achieve a balanced and healthy complexion.
Remember, consistency in your routine and gentle care are key to minimizing excess oil and preventing breakouts.
Do not forget to pair your cleanser with lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizers to keep your skin hydrated without clogging pores.
With the right choices, you can enjoy skin that feels fresh, clean, and radiant every day.
Related:
6 Best Salicylic Acid Serums in Pakistan
Best Face Washes For Dry Skin In Pakistan
11 Best Vitamin C Serums In Pakistan
Education: University of Peshawar
Abrar Ahmad holds a Master’s degree in Chemistry and has been writing about skincare for over five years. With a deep understanding of ingredients and their impact on the skin, he enjoys sharing practical, science-based skincare advice. When not writing, he loves playing with his kids.