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What should you know about oily skin type?

Where Oily Skin is typically felt, shown on a simplified body outline
Illustration: Where Oily Skin is typically felt, shown on a simplified body outline

Short answer

An oily skin type has increased surface sebum, but it still needs gentle cleansing, light moisturiser, and daily sunscreen.

This answers one question. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an assessment by a licensed doctor.

At a glance

Typical clue
Shine returns quickly after cleansing
Still needed
Light moisturiser and broad-spectrum sunscreen
Check-up trigger
Pain, scarring, sudden change, or persistent burning

Recognising this skin type

You may notice shine returning soon after washing, enlarged-looking pores, or makeup separating through the day. Oily skin can be present across the face or mainly around the forehead, nose, and chin. It can also feel dry when its barrier is irritated, so tightness does not rule out oiliness. Sebum can mix with dead skin cells and block follicles, increasing the chance of Acne. Oily, itchy scale around the hairline or brows deserves a different consideration such as Seborrheic Dermatitis.

Caring for oily skin

Cleanse gently in the morning and before bed, moisturise with a non-comedogenic lotion, and use broad-spectrum sunscreen. Blotting papers can reduce shine temporarily without repeated washing. Choose products according to comfort rather than a label alone, and add new actives gradually. If breakouts follow hormonal changes, ask about Hormonal Acne. A dermatologist can discuss prescription choices, including Isotretinoin Treatment, when acne or oiliness is persistent and appropriate.

Signs you need an assessment

Seek dermatology advice for painful lesions, marks that are becoming scars, sudden change in oiliness, or ongoing peeling and burning. Prompt care is appropriate for a rapidly spreading rash, marked swelling, pus, or symptoms near the eyes. Diagnosis is based on the pattern, examination, and product history rather than shine alone.

Questions for your doctor

Ask how to tell dehydration from irritation, whether your spots fit Acne or Hormonal Acne, and which cleanser and active are reasonable for your skin. Share your current products and any changes in medicines or hormones.

Find care

General Clinics & Polyclinics in Abu Dhabi

That answer is general. If you want it applied to your own case, these are licensed general clinics & polyclinics listed in Abu Dhabi.

City

Ordered by verification status and how complete each clinic's public record is, then alphabetically. This is a directory listing, not a ranking — Zavis does not rate or recommend providers.

A factual listing drawn from the DHA, DOH and MOHAP licence registers. It is not a referral, an endorsement, or advice that any of these providers is right for you.

Questions people ask

Can oily skin be dehydrated?

Yes. Surface oil and low water content can occur together, especially after harsh cleansing.

Does oily skin always cause acne?

No. Extra sebum can contribute to blocked pores, but oily skin alone does not establish Acne.

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Medical disclaimer. This page is general health information, not medical advice, and it cannot diagnose you. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider about your own symptoms and treatment. In an emergency in the UAE, call 998 for an ambulance.