How to Manage An Oily T-Zone, According to Experts

Wash Your Face Frequently and Regularly

If you have an oily T-zone—or any skin type for that matter—make sure that cleansing is part of your daily routine. "Wash your face regularly, at least two times per day," says dermatologist, Paul Jarrod Frank, MD. This will help keep excess oil from building up on your skin, as well as remove impurities that build up throughout the day.

Use the Right Cleanser

If you're dealing with excess oil, you'll need to use a cleanser that's meant specifically for oily skin in that area. While an oil-free cleanser is a good option, Dr. Frank recommends using a "foam or gel cleanser and avoiding cream cleansers."

Try a Powder Sunscreen

You can also help combat shine with the help of a powder sunscreen. Vargas recommends Supergoop's 100% Mineral Invincible Setting Powder. "It's great because it contains zinc, which eliminates the excess oil without signaling the skin to produce more," she says.

Dermatologist Julia Siegel, MD, notes that in terms of protection, though, powder sunscreen alone is unlikely enough. "Some powders may not go on thick enough to fully protect your skin." For this reason, it's important to be diligent about applying the powder all over your face, and not just in your T-zone. Dr. Siegel adds, "It may be helpful to also use a sunscreen lotion underneath, too." In that case, look for a formula that's non-comedogenic, and it'll be even better if it has mattifying properties, too.

Keep a Toner on Hand

If your T-zone is very oily but your cheeks are dry, use a toner to treat your t-zone.Toners are designed to get rid of excess oil and soothe your skin, and you can decide exactly where to apply it. If just your cheeks are oily, use a gentle cleanser all over your face, and then go over your T-zone with an anti-acne toner or toner formulated for oily skin. You can use a toner that has anti-acne ingredients like salicylic acid to clear up your acne. 

If your skin is extra oily, use a toner twice a day after cleansing your face. If your skin is mildly oily, use once a day. Keep in mind that for some people, using a toner twice a day or even once a day is too much; they may only need a toner a few times a week.

Use a Clay Mask

Use a facial mask once a week that's formulated for acne or oily skin. Vargas explains that clay is a great way of pulling impurities from the pores. "A clay mask is perfect for an oily T-zone because everyone has larger pores in that area that tend to get clogged easily." Pulling away these impurities may help prevent breakouts in your T-zone.

If your cheeks tend to be dry, apply the mask only on your T-zone. Try Dermalogica's Sebum Clearing Clay Masque; this will help to "absorb excess sebum," says Dr. Frank.

Make a DIY Mask

If you're like us, you love a DIY skincare recipe. We have good news: If you don't have a clay mask on-hand, you can make your own face mask to help manage an oily T-zone. Try Vargas' pore minimizing DIY recipe:

• 1/2 cup yogurt
• 1/2 cup mashed strawberry
• 1/4 cup honey

"Mix together and apply to your face and neck for 10 minutes. It's soothing and will help your skin feel more tight," she says.

Use Oil-Blotting Sheets

Blotting sheets are an easy way to instantly get rid of excess shine. Dr. Frank explains you can "use a blotting paper to remove excess oil throughout the day." These discreet tissues are perfect to stick in your handbag or backpack to refresh your face when needed. If you are in a pinch you can even use napkins or toilet paper (a toilet seat cover actually works best) to blot excess oil on your T-zone. Dr. Frank recommends Boscia's Clear Complexion Blotting Linens.

Look for Salicylic and Glycolic Acids

Remember the salicylic acid we talked about early? It's an ingredient to make note of. "Use a product with salicylic and/or glycolic acids, which will keep pores clear," explains Dr. Frank. For an overnight treatment, he suggests using the SkinCeuticals Glycolic 10 Renew Overnight.

Exfoliate Your Skin Regularly

Another way to help combat excess sebum—and remove any buildup of oil on your T-zone—is to exfoliate. "Exfoliate your skin regularly, about two to three times per week," Dr. Frank says.

Opt for Gentle Exfoliation

Speaking of exfoliation, it's important to be gentle while doing so. Vargas recommends using a gentle scrub like her Exfoliating Mask, since these products are hard to over-use and keep the skin nice and clean. "Apply the scrub to clean skin twice a week. Use gentle circular motions, with extra time spent on the oilier T-zone, for three minutes for effective exfoliation," she says.

Pay Attention to Your Makeup Ingredients

When it comes to managing an oily t-zone, your skincare products aren't the only thing to consider—your makeup plays a role, too. "Avoid makeup with silicones and mineral oil, which will your clog pores," says Dr. Frank. "Opt for an oil-free or water-based tinted moisturizer instead."

Use Baking Soda

There are certain household items that can help you to manage an oily T-zone, and baking soda is one of them. In fact, Vargas suggests mixing baking soda with water and applying it as a mask. "Scrub it onto the skin and leave it for a few minutes. After rinsing with water, blackheads will be softer and ready to come out."

Try a Serum

One last tip—a face serum, but not just any serum. Dr. Frank recommends The Ordinary's Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%. The formula works to combat oiliness and minimize pores. Apply a few drops every morning and evening before moisturizing.