Our Top-Rated, Expert-Approved Skincare for Oily Skin

Oily skin is caused by excessive sebum production by the sebaceous glands, influenced by several factors well documented by dermatological research: hormonal balance, stress, diet and skincare routine, amongst others.

• A particularly active hormonal environment: Androgens directly stimulate the sebaceous glands via receptors on their surface, which are more numerous in the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin), which explains the tendency for this area to become shiny in combination with oily skin types. This mechanism, confirmed by studies on people who are insensitive to androgens and who produce no sebum, also explains the acne flare-ups observed during puberty or during hormonal fluctuations associated with the menstrual cycle and pregnancy (5).

• Chronic stress: The sebaceous glands have receptors sensitive to stress hormones, causing them to react to nervous tension. A study conducted among adolescents highlighted a correlation between periods of chronic stress, increased sebum production and worsening skin blemishes (6).

• An unbalanced diet: Diets with high glycaemic index and the consumption of dairy products have been linked, in several studies, to increased levels of insulin and IGF-1, two factors that stimulate sebum production and androgen levels. However, the results remain mixed depending on the source.

• Inappropriate skincare: Cleansers that are too harsh or excessive cleansing weaken the skin barrier, which in turn triggers compensatory sebum production: the skin, seeking to protect itself, produces more sebum (1).

The best skincare products for oily skin combine lightweight, non-comedogenic textures with sebum-regulating active ingredients such as zinc or niacinamide, without drying out the skin. 

Now that we have a better understanding of excess sebum, it’s time to look at the most suitable skincare products and active ingredients to regulate it in the long term. This list of the 10 top-rated skincare products gives pride of place to Zinc, niacinamide and salicylic acid and azelaic acid, renowned for their regulating action that doesn’t dry out the skin (2). From cleansers with fluid textures to dietary supplements, discover here a selection of the products that have received the most positive feedback, tested by our experts and endorsed by the Aroma-Zone community. 

Gentle Prebiotic, Zinc & Cucumber Cleansing Gel. This purifying cleansing gel gently removes make-up and impurities whilst respecting the skin’s pH balance. Its 100% naturally derived formula, based on organic cucumber, organic inulin and zinc PCA, softens, rebalances and helps reduce blackheads and blemishes. Ideal for all skin types, and particularly for combination to oily skin, it cleanses without drying out or causing tightness. Apply in the morning and/or evening to damp skin all over the face and neck, and work into a lather before rinsing with clean water. 

Discover the Gentle Cleansing Gel

Pure Neem & Tea Tree Organic Soap-Free Cleansing Bar. Purified and refreshed skin thanks to this organic cleansing bar, which combines the power of green clay and neem to target blemishes without drying out the skin. Its creamy lather and 100% natural formula respect the skin’s hydrolipidic film and pH balance. Ideal for problem skin, it gently cleanses the face and combats blemishes. 

Organic Neem & Tea Tree Soap-Free Cleansing Bar

Pomegranate Enzyme & Rice Pearl Facial Scrub. This facial scrub, with an innovative formula combining mechanical exfoliation and enzymatic peeling, removes dead skin cells and impurities, leaving the skin smooth and the complexion ultra-radiant. Its milky gel texture leaves the skin velvety soft. Apply a small amount of scrub to your face, which has been moistened with lukewarm water, using circular movements; leave on for 1 to 2 minutes, then rinse off. 

Discover the Pomegranate Enzyme & Rice Pearl Facial Scrub

Concentrated Niacinamide 10%, Copper & Zinc Serum. Highly concentrated in niacinamide (vitamin B3), zinc and copper, this clinically proven serum tightens pores, regulates sebum production, prevents blemishes and reduces redness and dark spots. Enriched with moisturising hyaluronic acid, it evens out the complexion and refines skin texture. When used as a hair care treatment, niacinamide stimulates keratin production, strengthens the hair, restores volume and balances the scalp. Apply a few drops before your day and/or night cream for flawless skin.

Discover the 10% Niacinamide, Copper & Zinc Concentrated Serum

Concentrated 2% Salicylic Acid & Zinc Serum. The secret to flawless skin: this multi-action serum reduces the size and appearance of pores whilst combating blemishes. With purifying and keratolytic properties, this complex of plant-based salicylic acid, mushroom extract and zinc regulates excess sebum, unclogs pores and prevents the appearance of blackheads. This serum leaves the skin purified and the skin texture refined, without causing dryness. Apply a few drops of the serum to the face and neck before your night-time skincare routine – not suitable for sensitive skin; do not use on children under 12 years of age; avoid the eye area; use daily sun protection and avoid sun exposure for up to one week after the last application. 

Discover the 2% Salicylic Acid & Zinc Concentrated Serum

10% Azelaic Acid Concentrated Serum. This concentrated serum, containing 10% 100% naturally sourced azelaic acid, is designed for combination, oily and acne-prone skin. It unclogs pores, regulates sebum, reduces blackheads and redness, and mattifies the complexion without drying it out. Enriched with hyaluronic acid and silica, it hydrates whilst absorbing excess sebum. As it is highly concentrated, introduce it gradually into your routine: 2 to 3 times a week to begin with, before moving on to daily use. Apply a few drops before your day or night cream, avoiding the eye area.

Discover the 10% Azelaic Acid Concentrated Serum

Zinc Hyaluronate & Plant-Based Salicylic Acid Fluid Cream. This organic purifying fluid cream rebalances, mattifies and moisturises the skin whilst reducing blemishes. Enriched with zinc hyaluronate and salicylic acid, it tackles blackheads, tightens pores, stimulates cell renewal and soothes inflammation. Free from fragrance and essential oils, it is suitable for oily, blemish-prone or acne-prone skin, leaving a matt, velvety finish. It can be used as a day or night treatment: apply the fluid cream to the face and neck in the morning and/or evening to cleansed skin, after applying your serum.

Discover the Zinc Hyaluronate & Plant-Based Salicylic Acid Fluid Cream

Active ingredient: Niacinamide. An essential ally for radiant skin, it reduces redness, dark spots and excess sebum, whilst improving the skin’s overall appearance. Simply mix it into your skincare products to enhance your complexion and tighten pores, resulting in a harmonious and radiant complexion. Dosage: 1–7% of your formulations, to be incorporated into your lotion, cream & milk, cleansing gel or gel. 

Discover the active ingredient Niacinamide

Refillable translucent mattifying compact powder. An invisible skincare-infused make-up product, this powder—enriched with hyaluronic acid and rice powder—mattifies the skin, absorbs excess sebum, blurs pores and evens out the complexion. For a light, ‘bare-skin’ effect on all skin tones. Apply in the morning as the final step in your make-up routine to set your look, or on its own for a long-lasting mattifying effect. It can also be used throughout the day for touch-ups to absorb excess sebum from the skin’s surface. Apply all over the face or to shiny areas using a brush or a powder puff.

Discover the Mattifying Compact Powder

Clear Skin Complex. Guaranteed clear and radiant skin thanks to our dietary supplement designed for oily and blemish-prone skin. Its unique blend combines burdock, nettle, wild pansy and zinc to detoxify and improve the condition of acne-prone skin. With the patented SkinAx²™ Urban Detox, see a visible reduction in blemishes and a decrease in sebum, whilst enjoying the benefits of Vitamin C. Take 2 capsules a day (maximum), to be swallowed with a glass of water. Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, people prone to oedematous heart or kidney failure, or those with certain allergies.

Discover the Clear Skin Complex

At Aroma-Zone, feedback from our community complements the work of our experts and confirms the genuine effectiveness of our skincare products in regulating sebum. 

“High-quality, natural products that don’t cause any unwanted reactions. My skin has never been this clear, thanks to the niacinamide and AHA serums, to name but a few. Having worn make-up for years to hide spots and other blemishes, I now only wear lipstick and mascara! The prices are also very affordable, and the bottles can last several months if you use them sparingly." 

Céline, 15 June 2026, on the 10% Niacinamide, Copper & Zinc Concentrated Serum.

“The products are very good quality, the ingredients are spot on, and they’re effective: I bought two hand creams, the hyaluronic acid one and the azelaic acid one, and I’m VERY happy with them. As someone with an oily T-zone, my skin is starting to stabilise.”

Abigayul, 6 April 2026, on the Azelic Acid Serum

“I’m truly amazed by the quality of the products. My skin was very dry in some areas but also oily due to a massive excess of sebum, especially by the end of the day – if I ran my fingers over my phone at the end of the day, it would be very greasy! Thanks to their questionnaire tool for selecting products based on your skin type, it’s changed my life – really!” I follow a routine in the morning and another in the evening, and I saw visible results within just a week." 

Brice, 11 May 2026

“Aroma Zone has been part of my skincare routine for a year now, and I can really see the difference – smoother skin and fewer blemishes. I’m very satisfied.” 

Candice, 1 July 2026

"Excessive sebum production can result from increased activity of androgen hormones, insulin and the growth factor IGF-1 (Rygula et al., 2024). Foods with a high glycaemic index rapidly raise blood glucose and insulin levels, which promotes the activity of the hormone IGF-1. IGF-1 stimulates the proliferation of keratinocytes and the activity of the sebaceous glands, leading to excess sebum and acne. Several studies show that a low-glycaemic-index diet is associated with lower levels of IGF-1 and a reduction in acne. Western-style diets, rich in dairy products, refined carbohydrates and saturated fats, but low in omega-3s, are associated with a worsening of acne symptoms."

Lila Bouber, PhD in Nutrition and Scientific Consultant

Reference: Ryguła I, Pikiewicz W, Kaminiów K. Impact of Diet and Nutrition in Patients with Acne Vulgaris. Nutrients. 2024;16(10):1476. "

Oily skin still needs hydration: it is therefore not advisable to overuse drying treatments or cleanse too frequently, as this weakens the skin barrier and can exacerbate sebum production. When trying a new skincare product, test it on a small area for 48 hours before applying it to the whole face. If excess sebum is accompanied by pain or persistent inflammatory blemishes, it is recommended that you consult a dermatologist. The products, active ingredients and other ingredients mentioned in this article may have specific precautions and restrictions for each one: always refer to our product fact sheets.

After graduating from ESCP Business School in 2020, Louise began her career as a writer in 2021. Today, she writes a newsletter where she shares cultural recommendations and more personal articles, such as dating apps, therapy, and career guidance. She also writes for the media, brands and agencies on subjects such as well-being, mental health, culture, and society.