Why Do People Get Oily Skin

I remember the first time I walked into a dermatologist's office and asked, 'Why do people get oily skin?' I was 22, sitting in a chair that smelled like antiseptic and lavender. I was trying to understand why my face looked like a summer storm every morning. My skin was a battleground of shine and breakouts, and I felt like I was alone in this struggle. But after a few sessions and a lot of questions, I realized that oily skin wasn't a curse — it was a clue, one that pointed to the complex interplay of hormones, genetics. Lifestyle choices.^[1]

My journey to understanding why people get oily skin started with small, specific moments: the way my face glistened under fluorescent lights, the way my nose felt like it was sweating even on cool days. The way my face looked like a canvas for oil after just a few hours of being out in the sun. I learned that oily skin is not just a surface-level issue — it's tied to what's going on under the skin, from the sebaceous glands to the hormones that control them. It's not just about what we put on our skin, but what's happening inside our bodies.^[5]

Over time, I came to see that why people get oily skin was less about what I was doing wrong and more about the biology that I was born with. I found out that oily skin is a common trait, affecting a large percentage of the population, and that it's more than just a cosmetic concern. It's a sign that the body is working in a specific way, and understanding that has changed how I think about my skincare routine. I've learned that knowing why people get oily skin is the first step to managing it — and that's something I now share with others who are trying to figure it out, too.

The Biology Behind Oily Skin

As of August 2026, the sebaceous glands are located just below the surface of the skin, and they produce sebum — an oily substance that helps to keep the skin moisturized and protected. But when these glands become overactive, they can produce too much sebum, leading to oily skin. This can happen due to a variety of factors, including hormonal changes, stress, and even the weather.^[2]

One of the most common causes of increased sebum production is the hormone androgen, which is present in both men and women. During puberty, for example, androgen levels rise, which can lead to a surge in oil production. This is why teenagers often experience oily skin and acne. Similarly, during menopause, women may notice an increase in oiliness as estrogen levels drop and androgen levels become more dominant.

Genetics also play a role in why people get oily skin. If your parents have oily skin, it's more likely that you will, too. This is because genetic factors influence the size and activity of your sebaceous glands. In some cases, people may have larger or more active glands, which can produce more oil than others.

The Role of Hormones in Oily Skin

Hormones are like the body's chemical messengers, and they influence nearly every system in the body, including the skin. When there's an imbalance in hormones, such as during puberty or menopause, it can trigger the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum. This excess oil can clog pores and lead to acne, making oily skin a common concern for many people.

During puberty, the body's androgen levels rise, which can lead to increased oil production and the development of acne. Similarly, during pregnancy, the body produces more estrogen and progesterone, which can also affect the skin's oiliness. In some cases, pregnancy can even lead to a temporary improvement in skin texture, but for others, it can cause more oiliness and breakouts.

Menopause brings about a significant drop in estrogen levels, which can cause the skin to become drier. However, some women may experience an increase in oiliness during this time due to the relative increase in androgen levels. This is why many women find that their skin becomes more oily as they age.

Hormones can be the invisible hand behind your oily skin — and understanding them is key to managing it.

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Genetics and Oily Skin: What You Can't Control

Genetics play a major role in why people get oily skin, and in some cases, it's simply a matter of what you were born with. If you have a family history of oily skin or acne, it's likely that your skin will behave similarly. This is because your genes determine the size and activity of your sebaceous glands, as well as how your skin responds to different products and environments.

In some cases, people may inherit a tendency for their sebaceous glands to be more active or larger, which can lead to increased oil production. This is why oily skin can run in families and why some people may struggle with oiliness even when they take good care of their skin.

While you can't change your genetic makeup, you can learn to manage your skin's oiliness through lifestyle changes and the right skincare routine. This includes using non-comedogenic products and avoiding harsh treatments that can strip the skin of its natural oils.

“I remember the first time I walked into a dermatologist's office and asked, 'Why do people get oily skin?' I was 22, sitting in a…”— Sunscreen for Oily Skin editors

Lifestyle Factors That Influence Oily Skin

What you eat can have a direct effect on your skin's oiliness. Studies have shown that diets high in refined sugars and dairy can increase sebum production, leading to more oily skin. On the other hand, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats can help to balance oil production and reduce breakouts.^[3]

Stress is another major factor that can influence oily skin. When you're stressed, your body releases cortisol, a hormone that can increase oil production. This is why people often notice that their skin becomes more oily during times of high stress or anxiety.

Your skincare routine also plays a role in managing oiliness. Using harsh cleansers or over-exfoliating can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to increased oil production as the skin tries to compensate. This is why it's important to use gentle, non-irritating products that can help to regulate oil without over-drying the skin.

Environmental Influences on Oily Skin

Humidity is one of the most significant environmental factors that can influence oil production. In high-humidity climates, the skin can become more oily due to increased sweating and the buildup of moisture on the skin's surface. This can create a breeding ground for bacteria and lead to more breakouts.

In contrast, dry climates can also affect the skin's oiliness. When the air is dry, the skin can become dehydrated, which can trigger the sebaceous glands to produce more oil to compensate. This is why people who live in dry climates may find that their skin becomes more oily in the winter months.

Sun exposure can also impact oily skin. While the sun has a drying effect on the skin, it can also increase oil production in some people. This is why it's important to use a non-comedogenic sunscreen that won't clog pores or exacerbate oiliness.

The Importance of Skincare Routines for Oily Skin

Creating a skincare routine that's tailored to oily skin is essential for managing oil production and preventing breakouts. This includes using a gentle cleanser, an oil-control toner, and a non-comedogenic moisturizer. These products work together to help balance the skin's oil production and keep the skin looking healthy.

It's also important to use products that contain ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which can help to exfoliate the skin and reduce the appearance of oil. These ingredients can help to unclog pores and prevent the buildup of excess oil.

In addition to using the right products, it's important to avoid over-exfoliating or using harsh treatments that can strip the skin of its natural oils. This can lead to increased oil production and more breakouts. Instead, it's best to use gentle, non-irritating products that can help to regulate oil without over-drying the skin.

A well-balanced skincare routine is the foundation of managing oily skin — and it starts with the right products.

The Psychological Impact of Oily Skin

Having oily skin can be more than just a physical concern — it can also have a psychological impact on individuals. Many people with oily skin feel self-conscious about their appearance, especially in social or professional settings. This can lead to a decrease in self-esteem and confidence, which can affect other areas of life.

In some cases, oily skin can even lead to social anxiety, particularly if it's accompanied by acne or other skin concerns. This is why it's important to seek professional help if oily skin is affecting your mental health or self-image.

However, it's important to remember that oily skin is a common concern, and many people deal with it on a daily basis. With the right skincare routine and lifestyle changes, it's possible to manage oily skin and feel more confident in your own skin.

Why Do People Get Oily Skin