Korean Skincare Myths About Oily Skin – Busted
Posted by Skinsider Team on 18th Jun 2025
Struggling with oily skin? You might be unknowingly following advice that does more harm than good. It's time to break down common skincare myths and explore how Korean skincare can transform your routine. Here's the truth behind the biggest misconceptions about oily skin.
- Oily Skin Doesn't Need Moisturiser Busted: Skipping moisturiser can actually make oily skin worse. When the skin lacks hydration, it produces even more oil to compensate. The solution? Lightweight, water-based moisturisers packed with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or green tea extract. Try this: Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Aqua Gel Cream – a refreshing, oil-free gel that deeply hydrates without clogging pores.
- You Need to Wash Your Face Multiple Times a Day to Control Oil Busted: Over-cleansing strips away your skin's natural barrier, leading to irritation, dehydration, and even more oil. The Korean skincare routine recommends using gentle, pH-balanced cleansers no more than twice daily. Try this: PURITO Mighty Bamboo Panthenol Cleanser – soothing and non-stripping, it supports the skin barrier while keeping oil in check.
- All Oils Are Bad for Oily Skin Busted: The right oils can help, not harm. Many Korean cleansing oils use non-comedogenic ingredients like jojoba or sunflower oil to gently dissolve excess sebum, makeup, and impurities. Try this: SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil – lightweight and effective, even for breakout-prone skin.
- Oily Skin Doesn’t Age, So You Don’t Need Anti-Ageing Products Busted: While oily skin may develop fine lines more slowly, it’s still prone to long-term damage from free radicals and sun exposure. Antioxidants and SPF are essential. Try this: KAINE Chaga Collagen Charging Serum – rich in antioxidants and fermented extracts to support youthful skin.
- Strong, Astringent Toners Are Best for Oily Skin Busted: Harsh toners can damage the skin barrier. Korean toners for oily skin focus on calming and balancing with centella, green tea, and gentle exfoliants like BHA. Try this: Isntree Green Tea Fresh Toner – alcohol-free and soothing, perfect for oily and combination skin.
- You Should Avoid Layering Products If You Have Oily Skin Busted: Layering is a key part of K-beauty. Using multiple lightweight products helps build hydration without heaviness or greasiness. This method actually helps balance oil production. Try this: MIXSOON Bean Essence – a multitasking essence that smooths, hydrates, and supports a healthy skin barrier.
- Dewy = Greasy Busted: The Korean "glass skin" trend is about healthy radiance, not oiliness. By balancing sebum and moisture, even oily skin can achieve a glowing, non-greasy finish. Try this: SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Tea-Trica Purifying Toner – refines pores and calms skin while delivering that signature K-beauty glow.
Oily skin doesn’t need to be stripped or starved of hydration. The Korean skincare philosophy focuses on balance, gentle care, and prevention. With the right products, you can reduce excess shine, prevent breakouts, and enjoy healthy, glowing skin.
