The Ordinary Routine for Oily and Acne-Prone Skin in Pakistan’s Heat
Hot, humid summers make oily and acne-prone skin harder to manage. Skin produces more oil, pores clog more easily, and heavy creams feel uncomfortable. The good news is that a simple routine with a few The Ordinary products can make a real difference. Here’s what to use and how to put it together.
What oily, acne-prone skin needs
- Gentle cleansing that removes oil and sunscreen without stripping your skin.
- Oil and pore control, mainly from Niacinamide.
- Exfoliation inside the pore, from Salicylic Acid (BHA).
- Light hydration. Oily skin still needs moisture, and dehydrated skin can produce even more oil.
- Daily sunscreen, to stop acne marks from getting darker.
The key products
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is the most popular product for oily skin. It helps balance oil, reduces the look of pores and blemishes, and calms redness. Use it morning and/or evening. If you find 10% too strong, The Ordinary Niacinamide 5% Face and Body Emulsion is a gentler option.
Salicylic Acid 2% Solution
The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution is oil-soluble, so it can work inside the pore to help clear blackheads and breakouts. Start with a few evenings a week. The The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Masque – 50ml is a once-or-twice-weekly option for a deeper clean, and The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 0.5% Body Serum 240ml helps with breakouts on the chest and back.
Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% helps with breakouts, redness and the marks they leave behind. It’s a good choice if Salicylic Acid feels too drying.
Light hydration
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 gives water-based hydration without weight. If you need a moisturiser, The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA is light enough for most oily skin types.
Gentle cleanser
Choose a cleanser that leaves your skin comfortable, not squeaky. The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser (50 ml) is gentle and removes sunscreen and makeup well.
Simple routine for oily, acne-prone skin
Morning
- Cleanse
- The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
- The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (optional)
- Light moisturiser
- Sunscreen
Evening
- Cleanse (double cleanse if you wore sunscreen or makeup)
- 3 nights a week: The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution
- Other nights: The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
- The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
- Light moisturiser
If you want something ready-made, The Ordinary Acne Set groups products for blemish-prone skin.
Adding a retinoid
Once your skin is used to the routine (usually after 4–6 weeks), you can add a retinoid such as The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% Squalane on nights when you’re not using Salicylic or Azelaic Acid. Retinoids help keep pores clear over time. Start two nights a week and build up slowly. They are not recommended during pregnancy.
Mistakes that make oily skin worse
- Over-washing or harsh scrubs. These irritate your skin and can lead to more oil.
- Skipping moisturiser. Dehydrated skin often feels oilier.
- Using every active at once. Introduce one product at a time and patch-test first.
- Layering acids and retinoids on the same night. Alternate nights instead.
- Expecting overnight results. Give a routine 6–8 weeks.
If your acne is painful, cystic, leaves scars or doesn’t improve with skincare, please see a dermatologist. Prescription treatment may be needed.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use Niacinamide and Salicylic Acid together?
Yes. Apply Salicylic Acid first, let it absorb, then apply Niacinamide.
Is Niacinamide good for summer in Pakistan?
Yes. It’s light, water-based and helps control oil, which makes it well suited to hot, humid weather.
Should oily skin use face oil?
Most oily skin doesn’t need one. If you want extra nourishment, a few drops of a light oil at night are fine, but they’re optional.
Find your routine
Use our Regimen Builder to get a routine for oily or acne-prone skin, and check any two products with the compatibility checker on each product page. Every product we sell is imported and sealed, with Cash on Delivery and flat Rs 200 delivery across Pakistan.