Oily skin can feel like a never ending battle. You wash your face, but within hours the shine returns. Your pores look enlarged and breakouts keep coming back no matter what you try.
This constant oiliness isn’t just a skincare issue. It can affect how you feel about yourself. The greasy look, the stubborn acne and the clogged pores can make you feel uncomfortable and less confident in social situations.
But there’s a way to manage it. The right serum for oily skin can help reduce breakouts and clear your skin.
We have reviewed 5 of the best Indian serums for oily skin in 2025 which are tested, trusted and targeted for real results.
Why Does Your Skin Stay So Oily? Let’s Break It Down
Oily skin isn’t just about poor hygiene or using the wrong products. It often starts deeper. The main cause is overactive sebaceous glands. These glands produce too much sebum which makes your skin look greasy and clogs your pores.
Hormonal shifts during puberty, stress or your monthly cycle can make the skin even oilier. If your parents had oily skin, you might too. Genetics has a strong influence. Hot, humid and polluted environments also push your skin to release more oil.
A common myth is that oily skin doesn’t need moisturization. That’s not true. When you skip moisturizer, your skin gets dry and tries to balance it by producing even more oil. The result is more shine and more breakouts.
Must Read – 9 Best Anti Aging Night Creams for Wrinkle-Free & Youthful Skin: Tested and Reviewed
Top 5 Indian Serums for Oily Skin
The skincare market is full of serums promising clear and oil-free skin. But not all of them are made for oily skin types. Some are too heavy, others don’t target the root cause of oil and breakouts.
To save you time and guesswork, we asked dermatologists to recommend the most effective options. After careful testing, they picked these 5 Indian serums for oily skin that work well on all skin types. Each one is designed to control shine, unclog pores and reduce breakouts without drying out your skin.
1. Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid Face Serum
Minimalist’s 2% Salicylic Acid Face Serum is a powerful yet gentle formula designed specifically for oily and acne-prone skin. It exfoliates dead skin cells, unclogs pores and controls excess sebum production.
Free from fragrance and essential oils, it suits even sensitive skin. The non-comedogenic formula ensures your pores stay clear without triggering new breakouts.
Key Features:
- Contains 2% salicylic acid for daily exfoliation
- Helps reduce acne, blackheads, and excess oil
- Fragrance-free and essential oil-free
- Non-comedogenic and safe for oily skin
- Manufactured by Uprising Science Pvt Ltd in Jaipur, India
With consistent use, this serum helps achieve a matte, smooth look while reducing acne and blackheads over time.
2. The Derma Co 10% Niacinamide Face Serum with 2% Zinc PCA
The Derma Co’s 10% Niacinamide Face Serum is for oily and acne-prone skin. It uses nanotechnology which helps active ingredients reach deeper for better results.
Niacinamide and Zinc PCA work together to fade acne marks, control oil and tighten pores. The serum also strengthens the skin barrier and improves texture with regular use.
Key Features:
- Upgraded with Deep Penetration Formula for better absorption
- Contains 10% Niacinamide and 2% Zinc PCA
- Fades acne marks and scars
- Controls sebum and minimizes large pores
- Strengthens skin barrier and improves texture
Consistent use helps reveal clearer, smoother skin with a natural glow without the greasy feel.
3. Plum Green Tea Skin Clarifying Concentrate
Plum’s Green Tea Skin Clarifying Concentrate is a gentle yet effective serum made for oily, acne-prone skin. Powered by green tea, natural AHAs and willow bark, it helps unclog pores, reduce inflammation and fade blemishes.
Licorice extract targets dark spots and pigmentation which makes the skin looking brighter and more even toned. Its lightweight texture absorbs quickly without feeling greasy.
Key Features:
- Contains green tea extracts and natural AHAs
- Targets acne and excessive oil on the skin
- Enriched with willow bark and licorice for clearer skin
- 100% vegan, SLS-free, and paraben-free
- Suitable for oily and acne-prone skin
This vegan serum is perfect for daily use which helps you maintain clear and balanced skin naturally.
4. Dot & Key Cica + 10% Niacinamide Face Serum for Oily Skin
Dot & Key’s Cica + 10% Niacinamide Face Serum is made for those struggling with oil, acne scars and frequent breakouts. Niacinamide helps control sebum while Cica soothes irritation and inflammation.
Clinical tests show it fades dark spots in 4 weeks and cuts down oiliness in 8. The formula feels light and won’t clog pores which makes it safe for daily use even on oily or sensitive skin.
Key Features:
- Combines 10% Niacinamide with calming Cica (Centella Asiatica)
- Fades dark spots and acne scars
- Reduces oiliness and minimizes pores
- Clinically proven, non-comedogenic, and fragrance-free
- Suitable for oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin
With regular use, it helps keep your skin calm, clear, and free of blemishes.
5. Mamaearth Skin Correct Face Serum with Niacinamide & Ginger Extract
Mamaearth Skin Correct Face Serum is designed to treat oily skin concerns like acne scars, dark spots and uneven tone. Niacinamide works to lighten blemishes and control excess oil while ginger extract calms the skin and boosts its natural glow.
Key Features:
- Infused with niacinamide to reduce acne scars and marks
- Contains ginger extract to improve skin texture and soothe inflammation
- Helps in regulating oil production for balanced skin
- Dermatologically tested and free from harmful chemicals
- Suitable for oily and acne-prone skin types
This lightweight serum absorbs easily which means no sticky residue behind. It’s free from parabens and toxins which makes it a safe choice for daily use. Ideal for anyone looking to fade acne scars and improve skin clarity.
Must Read – 7 Best Sunscreen for Dry Skin That Provide Hydration and Sun Protection
How to Use Serums Effectively for Oily Skin?
Using serum for oily skin the right way helps you get the full benefit without irritating your oily skin. Here’s a simple step by step routine based on personal experience. Following this method regularly can reduce oiliness, unclog pores and improve skin texture.
Step 1: Cleanse and Tone
Firstly start with washing your face to remove oil or dirt. Use a gentle cleanser for it. After that you should add toner in your skin care so that your skin prep. If your skin is clear it will absorb better.
Step 2: Apply the Serum
Now it is the time to apply your serum. Take just 2 to 3 drops of serum and gently pat with your fingers. Don’t rub or use too much. Pressing it in helps it sink deep without causing irritation.
Step 3: Moisturize
After the serum absorbs you should apply an oil free moisturizer. This locks in moisture and keeps your skin balanced all day or night.
Step 4: Choose the Right Time
Start by using the skin serum for oily once a day; morning or evening. Once your skin adjusts, you can use it twice daily for better results.
Important Note: Always do a patch test first whenever you try a new skincare product. Apply a small amount behind your ear or jaw line and wait for 24 hours. If there is no reaction, then it’s a sign that you can use this product without any issue.
Must Read – 6 Best Skin Brightening Serums for a Radiant & Even Skin Tone
Conclusion
By choosing the best face serum for oily skin, you can make your skin smooth, refreshing and free from unwanted oil. Your skin will start looking more balanced and clear.
With any of these 5 Serums for oily skin covered in this article, you can control excess oil, fade acne marks, tighten pores and improve overall skin texture without clogging pores.
Everyone has different skin so you need to pick the product according to your skin’s specific needs. With consistent use and a little patience, you’ll see visible results.
With these Serums for oily skin, you’ll enjoy a smoother, less oily and more confident skin over time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) : Serums for Oily Skin
1.Which type of serum is best for oily skin?
If we talk about which type of serum is best for oily skin, we would say the one which is lightweight, non-comedogenic, and contain ingredients like niacinamide, salicylic acid, or zinc. This type of serums help regulate sebum, minimize pores, and control acne.
2. Is vitamin C serum ok for oily skin?
Yes, vitamin C serum is a great option for oily skin. It helps brighten skin tone, reduce inflammation, and even out texture without clogging pores.
3. Should I use serums if I have oily skin?
You can use serums even of you have oily skin, as they can effectively balance oil production, reduce acne, and improve skin texture. make sure to choose oil-free, water-based formulas with ingredients that are suitable for oily skin.
4. Does niacinamide help oily skin?
Yes, niacinamide is excellent ingredient used in serums, particularly for oily skin. It helps in reducing excess oil, tightening pores, and calming the redness while improving overall skin.
5. What serum gets rid of oily skin?
Well, there is no serum that completely eliminates oil. However, there are a few options with with salicylic acid, niacinamide, or zinc as key ingredients. These can significantly reduce shine and sebum production, and make your skin look clean.
6. What is the best face serum for oily acne-prone skin in India?
Some of the best serum for oily and acne-prone skin in India include Aykiz Tea Tree & Willow Bark Serum, SoulTree Nutgrass & Neem Serum, and Earth Rhythm 10% Niacinamide Serum.
7. Can you recommend the top 10 serums for oily skin in India?
Some of the top rates serums for oily skin in India are –
- Minimalist 10% Niacinamide Serum
- The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
- Plum Green Tea Clarifying Serum
- Dot & Key CICA + Niacinamide Serum
- The Derma Co 2% Salicylic Acid Serum
- Earth Rhythm 10% Niacinamide Serum
- Re’equil Pore Refining Serum
- WOW Skin Science Vitamin C Serum
- Mamaearth Tea Tree Serum
- Pilgrim Salicylic & Niacinamide Serum
8. Which is the best serum for oily acne-prone skin in India under a budget?
Some of the best serums for oily acne-prone skin in India under ₹500–₹1000 include Minimalist 10% Niacinamide, The Derma Co 2% Salicylic Acid Serum, and Plum Green Tea Skin Clarifying Concentrate.
