Winter Skincare for Oily Skin: Yes, Even You Need an Oil (& 3 Other Skin-Saving Tips)

Think your complexion is home free in cold, dry weather just because you’ve got oily skin? Think again. Here’s why even you oily skin types need to change up your skincare arsenal during the winter.

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Since moving back to America, I’ve had to adjust to something I haven’t dealt with in three years: seasons.

When I moved back, it was the springtime. The weather was cool but not terribly freezing. Then summer came around and it was like I was back home again in Southeast Asia. But now it’s freezing. And dry. And most mornings I have the heater blasting while I teach English to little ones in China. Dry cold weather plus a heater going on in my house was basically a recipe for disaster. One tragic morning, I went out to run errands with my boyfriend and used the restroom at Target. As I was washing my hands, I noticed the ultimate HORROR STORY.

The skin around my mouth and jawline was dry, patchy, and flaky. You know those Google map pictures that show the giant, dry, cracked, arid ass desert from an aerial view? That's what my skin looked like — a parched Sahara desert. I was horrified! I fished a bottle of hand cream (don’t try this at home, kids), and dabbed it around my jawline so I could look somewhat presentable.

Which brings me to my main point — oily skin CAN get dry. And flaky. And patchy. I failed to adjust my skincare routine to account for the weather change, and it went freaking nuts. So now I’ve busted out some skincare tricks I learned while living in Korea to bring you my tried-and-true tips for surviving winter as an oily skinned babe.

1. Light layers of hydration are key

In the winter, instead of using super heavy creams, I opt to use multiple light layers of essences and serums. My current favorite is the Purple Tale Setting the Scene Treatment Essence. I’ve also added in the COSRX Snail Mucin Essence to my routine, and I generously pat it into my skin after the treatment essence. I tap on one layer of essence, wait for it to dry, and then put at least three more layers on. It’s kind of like the 7-skin toner method that was the rage this past summer.

After I layer my essence, I use at least two or three layers of a lightweight serum. My current favorites are the Laneige Bright Renew Original Serum and the Swanicoco Black Yeast Fermentation Ampoule.

2. Sheet masks will save your life

Sheet masking will save your life in the wintertime. Trust me on this. If you haven’t committed to sheet masking every night, you must start in the wintertime. Sheet masks have saved my skin during these dry months! (Besides, this is a great time to get your sheet mask stash in order.)

My three favorites are all from Leaders (aka the sheet mask king): the Aquablend Oil Pocket mask with white truffle oil, the Vaseline Nourishing mask, and the Amino Propolis mask.

3. Think about adding in an oil

In addition to lightweight layers, I’ve also added in oils to my nighttime routine. Keep in mind that an oil is NOT a moisturizer; it’s basically like a top coat for your skin. It helps to seal in all of the precious moisture and to keep your skin from losing too much moisture during the night. This is key, especially during the winter when your skin is prone to drying out. I’d especially think about adding in an oil to a routine if you sleep with a heater on, since heaters just suck the moisture out of the air like a vacuum.

I like to use a few drops of the Eclado Red Velvet Moisture Oil at the end of my nighttime routine for a luxurious and extremely helpful addition to my skincare arsenal.

4. Buy a humidifier

Listen: If you don’t already own a humidifier, go and get one. It’ll change your life. If you’ve noticed that your hair and skin feel much drier in the winter, sleeping with a humidifier will make your life so much better. I was suffering from dry spots not just on my face but all over my whole body, and sleeping with a humidifier definitely helps keep my skin nice and hydrated while I sleep. I also don’t get that annoying dry/sore throat in the morning anymore either!

So do you oily skinned people suffer from dry skin in the winter? Share your winter skincare for oily skin!  I’d love to hear from you in the comments!