Looking for a serum for oily skin that controls shine without leaving your face tight and flaky? The right serum regulates sebum production, keeps pores clear and hydrates, because yes, oily skin still needs hydration. Here are our tested picks, plus what to look for on the ingredient list.
What to look for in a serum for oily skin
Before buying any serum, check for these:
- Niacinamide: regulates sebum production and visibly reduces pore appearance over time. The single best-evidenced ingredient for oiliness.
- Salicylic acid (BHA): oil-soluble, so it exfoliates inside the pore where congestion starts.
- Zinc: calms inflammation and supports oil control.
- Lightweight hydrators: hyaluronic acid or glycerin in a water-based formula. Dehydrated skin overproduces oil, so skipping hydration backfires.
And avoid: heavy plant oils, formulas high in denatured alcohol (which over-dries the skin and worsens oiliness long-term), and anything not labelled non-comedogenic.
The best serums for oily skin
1. The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% (best overall & best budget)
Still the first serum we recommend for oily skin, over half a decade after it became a cult favourite. Niacinamide and zinc work together to regulate sebum production, calm redness and gradually shrink the appearance of pores. It layers well under moisturiser and makeup, and the price makes it a no-brainer starting point.
Best for: all oily and combination skin types, especially if you're new to serums.
2. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Pore Minimizer Serum (best for enlarged pores)
Glycolic acid works into the pores to clear congestion and regulate oil, while hyaluronic acid keeps the formula from tipping into dryness. A great pick if enlarged pores bother you more than shine itself.
Best for: oily skin with visible, enlarged pores.
3. Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum (best overnight treatment)
A blend of AHAs (glycolic, lactic, tartaric, citric) plus salicylic acid delivers an overnight resurfacing treatment. Wake up to smoother, less congested, visibly less oily skin. It's an investment, so treat it as a 2–3 nights-per-week treatment rather than a daily step.
Best for: oily skin with texture and congestion that tolerates acids well.
4. Dermalogica Overnight Clearing Gel (best for breakout-prone skin)
Technically a gel, but it earns its place. Salicylic acid clears pores and regulates sebum, tea tree soothes the irritation that acids can cause, and niacinamide backs up the oil control. A solid one-product PM treatment for skin that's both oily and breakout-prone.
Best for: oily, acne-prone skin.
5. Caudalie Vinopure Skin Purifying Mattifying Fluid (best for shine control)
If midday shine is your main enemy, this mattifying fluid from Caudalie delivers. Silica mattifies on contact while salicylic acid and grape polyphenols work on congestion underneath, and rose water keeps the formula gentle enough for daily use.
Best for: oily skin whose main concern is shine, and anyone who prefers natural-leaning formulas.
How to add a serum to your oily skin routine
- Cleanse with a gentle, non-stripping cleanser. Harsh cleansers make oily skin oilier.
- Apply your serum to clean, dry skin. If using an exfoliating acid serum, start 2–3 nights a week.
- Follow with a lightweight, oil-free gel moisturiser. Don't skip it.
- AM only: finish with a non-comedogenic SPF, which is essential when using acids.
Don't combine multiple acid serums in the same routine, and give any new serum 6–8 weeks of consistent use before judging results.
Frequently asked questions
Which serum is best for oily skin?
For most people, a niacinamide serum is the best starting point. The Ordinary's Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is affordable and well-evidenced for regulating sebum and reducing pore appearance. Add a salicylic acid product if you also get congestion or breakouts.
Should oily skin use hyaluronic acid serum?
Yes. Oily skin is often dehydrated, and dehydration triggers more oil production. A water-based hyaluronic acid serum hydrates without adding any oil, which can actually reduce shine over time.
Can I use a serum for oily skin every day?
Niacinamide serums: yes, twice daily. Exfoliating acid serums (glycolic, salicylic): start 2–3 times a week and build up only if your skin tolerates it. Over-exfoliating damages your skin barrier and ultimately makes oiliness worse.
Do I still need moisturiser if I use a serum?
Yes. Serums treat; moisturisers protect the skin barrier and lock the serum in. Choose an oil-free gel formula and your skin won't feel greasy.