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The Skin Read · Skin pattern

Oily and Congested

Oil, blackheads and breakouts, on skin that tolerates active care.

How should I care for oily, congested skin?

This skin makes a lot of oil and the pores clog, but it is not irritated, so it can handle active care. Consistency matters more than strength.

Check your patternBook a consultation
What usually helps
  • A gentle gel cleanse, twice a day
  • An exfoliating serum a few nights a week
  • Fresh pillowcases often
What to pause
  • Heavy, pore clogging creams and oils on the T zone
  • Picking and squeezing at home
  • Scrubbing harder when it gets worse
Ingredients to look for
  • Salicylic acid
  • Niacinamide
  • Zinc
When skincare is not enough

Deep, painful or scarring breakouts, or breakouts with irregular periods or new hair growth, are worth a doctor's check.

The Skin Read

Not sure this is your pattern?

The Skin Read asks a few quick questions and shows your skin pattern, what to pause, and a routine that fits it. About 3 minutes, no sign up.

Start The Skin ReadBook a consultation

Written by Clara Song, Ph.D., founder and formulator of COMPLETE ELIXIR in South Surrey, BC. This content is educational. It does not diagnose or treat a medical condition and does not replace care from a dermatologist or other qualified healthcare professional.