Oily skin in summer: how to control shine without drying it out

Summer challenges oily skin in a way no other season can.

Heat activates the sebaceous glands, increasing sweat and accelerating sebum production. The result? Skin that looks greasy by midday, with visible pores and makeup that disappears within hours.

However, many people make a critical mistake: fighting oil with overly aggressive products that dry out the skin, causing the exact opposite effect.

Why your skin produces more oil in summer

Sebaceous glands react to heat. As temperatures rise, the skin increases sebum production as a protective mechanism. For oily-prone skin, this process can go into overdrive — especially when combined with sweat and oxidative stress from sun exposure.

The most common mistake

Using harsh products to strip away oil.

Alcohol-based cleansers, strong astringent toners, daily scrubs — anything that aggressively removes oil triggers a rebound effect: when the skin feels too dry, it produces even more oil to compensate.

The goal isn't to eliminate oil — it's to regulate it.

The summer routine for oily skin

Cleansing

Twice a day with a cleansing gel specifically for oily or combination skin. Use lukewarm water — never hot — and a splash of cold water at the end to help tighten pores.

Serum

Niacinamide is the most effective active ingredient for oily skin. It regulates sebum, minimises pores, improves texture, and reduces shine without drying out the skin.

Hydration

Oily skin needs hydration too. Dehydrated oily skin actually produces more oil to make up for the lack of moisture. 

Sunscreen

A non-negotiable, even for oily skin. Matte-finish formulas won't clog pores or add shine, while protecting against sun damage. The final step of your morning routine — no exceptions.

Oily skin isn't the enemy

Oily skin actually ages better than dry skin — sebum acts as a natural protective barrier. Wrinkles take longer to appear. With the right routine, your skin can look incredible even in the height of August.

Summer is tough for oily skin. But not impossible.

The Beauty Edit

The summer routine for oily skin.

Cleanse, regulate, hydrate, and protect. Without irritation. No rebound effect.

Niacinamide Cleansing Milk divain

Step 01 · Cleanser

Niacinamide Cleansing Milk

A niacinamide-infused cleansing milk for a gentle, balancing cleanse. Removes impurities without drying or upsetting the skin's natural balance.

Niacinamide Balancing Combination skin
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Control BOOSTER divain

Step 03 · Serum

Control BOOSTER

A 10% Niacinamide serum to regulate oil, minimise pores, and refine texture. The most effective active for oily skin — with no dryness.

10% Niacinamide Serum Anti-shine
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Vitamin C+E Day Cream divain

Step 04 · Hydration

Vitamin C+E Day Cream

A lightweight day cream with vitamins C and E. Hydrates without feeling heavy and protects skin from oxidative stress. Perfect for oily and combination skin.

Vitamin C Lightweight Antioxidant
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Vitamin E Sunscreen SPF50+ divain

Step 05 · Sunscreen

Vitamin E Sunscreen SPF50+

Facial sunscreen with Vitamin E and a lightweight finish. Non-comedogenic, shine-free, and designed to protect oily skin from sun damage.

SPF50+ Vitamin E Oil-free
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