Really oily skin: causes, care, and when to get help

Short answer
Really oily skin means your sebaceous glands are producing abundant sebum, which can contribute to shine, blocked pores, and acne.
This answers one question. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an assessment by a licensed doctor.
At a glance
- Main substance
- Sebum produced by sebaceous glands
- Common pattern
- Forehead, nose, and chin may look shinier
- Helpful principle
- Reduce irritation rather than over-washing
Why skin can become very oily
Sebum helps protect the skin, but production varies with genetics, age, climate, stress, and hormonal signals. Oiliness may affect the whole face or concentrate around the forehead, nose, and chin. Acne is a common condition associated with excess oil and blocked follicles; Hormonal Acne may follow a cyclical or jawline pattern. Greasy scale, redness, or itch around the nose, eyebrows, ears, or scalp can fit Seborrheic Dermatitis.
A gentler routine
Cleanse with a mild, non-scrubbing cleanser morning and evening, then use a light non-comedogenic moisturiser and broad-spectrum sunscreen. Blotting papers can reduce shine without repeated washing. Introduce one active product at a time and stop if burning or peeling develops. A dermatologist can tailor topical treatment; Isotretinoin Treatment may be considered for selected severe or persistent acne, with careful medical supervision.
When to arrange a review
Book a dermatology assessment if oiliness starts suddenly, comes with painful deep spots, leaves scars, or persists despite a consistent gentle routine. Seek earlier advice for widespread redness, crusting, marked itch, or eye-area involvement. A clinician can distinguish ordinary oily skin from acne, dermatitis, medication effects, or a hormonal concern without assuming that oiliness alone identifies a condition.
Useful questions
Ask which cleanser and active ingredient suit your skin, whether your breakouts suggest Acne or Hormonal Acne, and how to protect your skin barrier. If stronger treatment is discussed, ask about monitoring, pregnancy precautions, dryness management, and how long improvement may take.
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.
27 Ar Ruwwad St - Shakhbout City - MSH4 - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, Cigna, MetLife +20 more
Al Ruwais, Al Dhafrah
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +16 more
Al Bahyah - Al Bahyah Old - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, Cigna, Allianz Care +18 more
Abu Dhabi
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +27 more
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
Does oily skin need moisturiser?
Yes. A lightweight non-comedogenic moisturiser can support the barrier and reduce the temptation to use harsh, drying products.
Can oily skin be caused by hormones?
Hormonal changes can increase sebum production, but the pattern and other symptoms determine whether further assessment is useful.
Keep reading
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.