Oily Skin in Winter? Yes, You Still Need Hydration.
Oily Skin Doesn’t Mean Moisturised Skin
Here’s something people don’t talk about enough: oily skin can still be dehydrated.
And when the temperature drops and the heaters go on, even naturally oily skin types can start to feel tight, uncomfortable, or even oilier than usual (yep, that rebound effect is real!).
As someone with oily skin myself, I get it. But I’ve also learned how to balance hydration without clogging things up. And Dry July is the perfect time to reset your routine.
1. Dehydration Isn’t Just for Dry Skin Types
Dry skin lacks oil. Dehydrated skin lacks water.
Even if your face gets shiny by lunch, it might still be parched underneath — especially if you spend time in heated rooms, skip water during the day, or over-cleanse.
Signs of dehydrated oily skin include:
A tight, waxy feel after cleansing
Extra oil production
Flaking or rough patches under the oil
Makeup sliding off faster than usual
2. Start with a Gentle Cleanser
Foaming cleansers can sometimes strip too much, making oily skin panic and pump out more oil. A gel-based or creamy cleanser (like SeneGence 3-in-1 Cleanser for Normal to Oily Skin) gets the job done without leaving you dry.
Even better? It also preps your skin to absorb hydration, rather than block it.
3. Add Water Before You Add Moisture
This is where the magic happens: layering hydration.
Start with a water-rich product like Climate Control or SeneSerum-C. These deliver hydration deep into the skin. Then follow with your moisturiser to seal it in.
If you're using a hydrating mist or serum from another brand, that’s fine too — the key is water first, then moisture.
Think of it like this: water goes in, oil locks it in.
4. Light Moisturisers Still Work in Winter
Heavy creams can feel like too much for oily skin, particularly during the day. That’s why I love SeneGence DayTime Moisturizer Normal to Oily — it’s lightweight but effective. For night, your skin will love the Evening Moisturizer Normal to Oily - try layering it with a little Nangai Oil if your skin feels particularly thirsty.
Bonus tip: If you don’t have Nangai Oil, try mixing a drop of coconut oil into your moisturiser (but only at night). Small swaps make a big difference.
5. Still Wear Sunscreen — Yes, Even Now
SPF isn’t just for summer. UV rays can still damage and dehydrate your skin in winter. Choose an oil-free daily sunscreen or a moisturiser that includes SPF protection.
Your skin will thank you later.
Kissmas in July: A Quick Note
If you’ve had your eye on some skincare (or lip goodies) lately, now is the time to check in. Kissmas in July ends July 23, and while corporate stock is flying out the door, I still have some sold-out items on hand.
Message me if you’re looking for something specific — I just might have it!
Let’s Wrap It Up
You can have oily skin and still need hydration.
It’s not about piling on product — it’s about choosing the right layers, in the right order, for the right season.
Need help decoding what your skin is actually asking for? I’m just a message away or you can take the quiz here.
Let’s keep showing up for our skin this Dry July — no matter your skin type. 😊