Tired of your oily skin looking greasy instead of glowy? While everyone's chasing that trendy 'glass skin' look–you know, that smooth, luminous complexion that looks lit from within–oily skin can feel like it's holding you back with constant shine, enlarged pores, and frustrating midday touch-ups, especially if you’re dealing with Philippine weather. But here's some good news: that dewy, radiant glow you want is achievable with your skin type!
Want to know how? Read on as in this guide, we're breaking down exactly how to balance your skin's natural oils to get that flawless, luminous complexion. Get ready to learn how to achieve glass skin for oily skin!
Understanding the Difference: Oily vs Glass Skin
On the other hand, oily skin typically has a shiny appearance, often around the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin), and may be prone to clogged pores, blackheads, and acne. If you have this type of skin, you're battling an endless cycle of excess sebum production—that thick, waxy oil that seems to seep through your skin no matter what you do. Your face feels heavy and slick, foundations separate and oxidize, and those expensive skincare products seem to just sit on top of your skin instead of absorbing properly.
Sure, some might say oil gives you a natural "glow," but we both know that's not the kind of radiance you're after!
But don't worry: understanding dewy skin vs oily skin is your first step to getting the skin you want.
Can Oily Skin Achieve a Luminous Glow?
Let’s address the big question that you’ve probably been asking since you’ve started reading: Can oily skin really achieve a luminous, glass-like glow? The answer is a big, absolutely, YES!
Here's what most people don't realize: your skin's natural oils aren't your enemy. Sometimes your oil glands go into overdrive because they think your skin needs more protection or hydration. Ironically, this often happens when your skin is actually dehydrated or when you're using harsh products that strip your skin.
The result? Way too much oil that leads to that constant shine you're trying to fight.
However, once you learn to work with your skin rather than against it, you can transform those annoying shine spots into the kind of luminous glow you're after. And we're about to show you exactly how!
Achieving Glass Skin with Oily Skin: Top Tips from DMD
Let’s get to the good part—how to make a glass–skin face even if you have oily skin. Here are some expert tips from us at DMD Skin Sciences to help you transform your skin from oily to glowing without the extra shine—with product suggestions, too!
Tip 1: Cleanse Gently but Effectively
The first step to achieving glass skin is a gentle yet effective cleansing routine. As mentioned earlier, harsh products that strip your skin will only trigger more oil production. With that in mind, instead of fighting oil with aggressive cleansers, use a gentle cleanser that can remove dirt, makeup, and excess oil without disrupting your skin’s balance.
For instance, the AZELANE Face Soap is great for oily face skin care. It gently cleanses away dirt and oil buildup, leaving your skin feeling refreshed. This soap is perfect for oily skin, as it doesn’t strip away moisture while helping to keep your skin clean.
Even Dr. Mike uses it; watch this video to see!
Another excellent option for oily skin is the ACNOKLAIR AcnoBar Cleanser. Its light formulation, containing salicylic acid, is excellent for controlling oil and preventing acne formation. This cleanser helps reduce the excess oil that can contribute to breakouts, while its gentle formula makes it suitable for first-time skincare users.
Exfoliating is also important to get that glass-like smoothness. Use a chemical exfoliant like the MISSION: SKIN° Acnoregulin Spray 1-2 times a week. Its light and gentle formulation helps clear pores of sebum plugs, whiteheads, and blackheads while tightening pores. It also helps brighten skin tone and reduce hyperpigmentation, leaving your skin smoother and helping you achieve that glowing, glass-skin look.
Tip 2: Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Moisturizing is just as important for oily skin as it is for dry skin. Even oily skin can become dehydrated, leading to dullness and uneven texture. The key is using moisturizers that hydrate without adding excess oil or clogging pores.
For a light, effective moisturizer, the MISSION: SKIN° HydroLock Lite Moisturizing Cream is a great option. It absorbs quickly, locking in moisture without feeling greasy. It contains Ceramides to strengthen the skin's barrier and help prevent moisture loss, keeping your skin hydrated and smooth throughout the day.
Sunscreen is also essential for achieving glass skin—ultraviolet or UV rays can cause premature aging and pigmentation without sunscreen, affecting your skin's smooth texture. The MONT DE LUR Crystal Serum Sunscreen SPF50 PA++++ is a lightweight formula that provides comprehensive protection from UV rays, infrared radiation, and visible light. It absorbs quickly and leaves a dewy finish with no white cast, making it perfect for daily facial use and under makeup. Beyond protection, it helps calm the skin and lighten dark spots while being suitable for oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin types.
For an extra moisture boost, try the ETHERIUS. Hyalurane Hyaluronic Acid Serum. It helps the skin retain moisture, keeping it hydrated, smooth, and glowing. It’s also lightweight, meaning it doesn’t leave any sticky residue.
With the right moisturization and sun protection, oily skin can achieve a smooth, glass-like finish while staying healthy and hydrated.
Tip 3: Add a Glow-Boosting Serum
The ETHERIUS. Ascor Vitamin C Serum is a great example. This serum contains L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), which stimulates collagen production and helps repair sun damage. It’s great for reducing pigmentation, making your skin look brighter and more even. Vitamin C also neutralizes free radicals, protecting your skin from environmental stress.
If you’re also looking to balance oil production and improve your skin’s texture, the ETHERIUS. Niacinacor Niacinamide Serum is an option you should consider. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) helps regulate moisture, calm inflammation, and strengthen your skin’s barrier. It can also brighten your skin tone, particularly in areas with hyperpigmentation. This lightweight, non-sticky serum is perfect for oily skin as it helps control excess oil while promoting a smooth, glass-like glow.
Apply your serum before moisturizing to ensure proper absorption and maximize benefits. For extra freshness throughout the day, you can also consider using a hydrating mist—a lightweight spray that delivers moisture to the skin, instantly refreshing and hydrating it. Hydrating mists often contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin, which help draw moisture into the skin and keep it hydrated, glowing, and refreshed throughout the day.
Tip 4: Consider Adding Retinol to Your Routine
The MISSION: SKIN° Retinol 1% Defender Cream is a great option. This cream contains 1% Retinol, which helps with acne, reduces pigmentation, and improves skin hydration and firmness. It also helps fight signs of aging, like wrinkles and sagging, while keeping your skin smooth and clear.
Start by using it three times a week in your bedtime routine. At first, your skin may get dry or irritated, so give it time to adjust. Over time, it will help make your skin smoother and more even, bringing you closer to that glowing, glass-like complexion.
DMD Skin Sciences: Your Partner in Achieving Glass Skin
If you're still struggling with oily skin despite trying the tips above, it might be time to seek professional help. At DMD Skin Sciences, we have various oily face skin treatment options designed to help you achieve that smooth, glass-like glow. Depending on your skin’s needs, we may recommend the following options:
- Advanced Retinoid Treatments: More powerful than over-the-counter options, these help regulate oil production, improve acne, and enhance skin texture.
- Topical Acne Treatments: Ingredients like Salicylic acid and Potassium azeloyl diglycinate can help reduce oil and acne breakouts.
- Oral Acne Solutions: For hormone-related oiliness, options like oral contraceptives, anti-androgens, or Isotretinoin can help balance hormone levels and control oil production respectively.
- Exfoliating Skin Peels: In-office treatments that exfoliate the skin, reduce oil, minimize pores, and leave your skin smoother with a more balanced texture. One such treatment is DMD’s Comedoclear, a specialized peel that combines exfoliating acids and active ingredients to clear out trapped impurities, targeting active acne, blackheads, and whiteheads for smoother, clearer skin.
- Laser Skin Treatments: These target oil production, minimize pores, and smooth the skin, helping you achieve a glowing, glass-like complexion.
Additionally, we have the DMD Glow Program, which is a convenient online solution designed to help you achieve smooth, glowing glass skin. Tailored for oily, acne-prone skin, this step-by-step program provides personalized care to manage oil, reduce breakouts, and improve texture, bringing you closer to a radiant complexion.
To find out the best course of action for your skin, book a consultation today and take the first step toward achieving your glass skin goals!
Conclusion
Glass skin isn't just for people with naturally perfect complexions—even with oily skin, that luminous glow is within reach. The key is working with your skin's natural tendencies rather than fighting against them.
Of course, if you want to fast-track your way to glassy skin, you should book a consultation at DMD with one of our dermatologists. We'll create a personalized plan that considers your skin's specific needs, helping you achieve that radiant glow you've been dreaming of—without the unwanted shine.
Looking forward to hearing from you!