
Oily Skin? Here’s How to Stay Matte Without Drying Out
Control shine. Calm skin. Let glow be gentle.
What Is Oily Skin?
Oily skin is characterized by excess sebum (natural skin oil) production. It often results in a persistent shine, enlarged pores, and a higher chance of blackheads, whiteheads, and blemishes. In humid climates like India, oily skin tends to feel heavy and congested - especially midday.
What Causes Excess Sebum?
Common Causes in Indian Skin:
-
Hormonal changes (puberty, stress, PCOS)
-
Climate and sweat in humid weather
-
Pollution mixing with sweat and oil
-
Over‑cleansing, stripping skin’s moisture barrier
-
Comedogenic skincare or heavy oils
While sebum is essential for moisture, too much can clog pores and compromise skin clarity.
What Does Oily Skin Look Like?

Oily skin often has a shiny or greasy appearance, especially in the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin). The surface may feel slick to the touch and appear thick or dull due to excess sebum (oil) production. You might also notice enlarged pores, frequent blackheads or whiteheads, and a tendency for makeup to slide off quickly. In some cases, oily skin can look uneven or bumpy due to clogged pores and mild breakouts. Despite these concerns, oily skin also tends to age more slowly and stay naturally hydrated.
Your Willingly Routine to Balance Oil & Shine
Willingly’s approach combines gentle exfoliation, oil-regulating actives, and barrier support - without stripping or drying.
Step | Product | How It Helps | Timeline for Results |
---|---|---|---|
AM + PM | Fresh Reset Cleanser | Salicylic Acid + Zinc PCA unclog pores and reduce oil accumulation | Fresh feel in 1–2 days, clearer skin in 1 week |
PM only | Turmeric Glow Serum | Niacinamide + Turmeric + Licorice calm inflammation and reduce oil production long-term | Balance in 2–3 weeks |
AM only | Vitamin C Serum | Brightens dull oil-built tone and prevents pigmentation from spot healing | Brighter tone in 4–6 weeks |
2–3x/week PM | Almond Glow Oil | Light, non-comedogenic oil that nourishes without adding shine | Skin texture softer in 2 weeks |
Daily | Sunscreen SPF 30+ | Prevents sun-triggered oil rebound and pigmentation | Preserve results instantly |
But I Have Oily Skin… Should I Still Use a Serum?
Absolutely - yes.
Oily skin doesn’t mean your skin is hydrated. In fact, oily skin can be dehydrated underneath, causing it to produce even more oil to compensate. That’s where lightweight, non-comedogenic serums come in - especially ones designed to balance and treat, not clog.
Why oily skin needs serum:
-
Niacinamide reduces oil production and strengthens your barrier
-
Vitamin C brightens post-acne marks without heaviness
-
Hyaluronic Acid hydrates without grease
-
Turmeric & Licorice soothe oil-triggered inflammation
Willingly’s serums - like the Turmeric Glow Serum and Vitamin C Serum - are water-based, non-greasy, and alcohol-free. They’re designed to absorb fast, feel featherlight, and give oily skin exactly what it needs - without burdening it.
So yes, oily skin types should absolutely use serums - just the right ones.
When Will You See Oil Control Effects?
-
Day 1-2: Skin feels less greasy after cleansing
-
Week 1-2: Fewer new comedones setting in
-
Week 3-4: Skin tone looks more uniform and less shiny
-
6+ weeks: Balanced oil, smoother texture, and reduced breakouts
Extras That Help (Not Product-Based)
-
Blotting sheets or tissue to manage midday shine without overwashing
-
12‑hour shift in routine: Consider oiling in PM only
-
Light diet with less oily or spicy food
-
Avoid heavy creams or layering crenelation
Oily skin doesn’t mean problems-it means metabolism. It can be balanced with smart skincare, nourishing hydration, and consistent protective habits.
With Willingly, you don’t need to fight oil. You just need to understand it, respect it, and let it find harmony.
Clear pores. Calm oil. Bring on the glow.