Oily skin arises from shifts in hormones, genetics, and external elements. Hormonal shifts during puberty or imbalances can trigger an uptick in sebum production, and genetic factors might result in larger sebaceous glands generating more oil. Oily skin’s hallmark traits include increased shine, expanded pores, and recurrent breakouts. This skin type often displays a glossy or oily appearance, notably along the T-zone—the forehead, nose, and chin.
Having oily skin can be challenging, but you can effectively manage excess oil with the right cleanser. Finding a cleanser with active ingredients like salicylic acid, niacinamide, and tea tree oil can help minimise shine and maintain a balanced complexion. Here are the top 10 cleansers for oily skin in Malaysia.
Is Oily Skin More Prone To Acne?
The short answer is yes. Oily skin is characterised by an overproduction of sebum, the skin’s natural oil. When excess sebum combines with dead skin cells and becomes trapped within hair follicles, it can create an environment conducive to the growth of bacteria. Hence, using an oil-control cleanser to help remove the excess oil and leave your skin fresh and clean at all times is crucial.
How Often Should You Cleanse Oily Skin for Optimal Results?
For individuals with oily skin, cleansing your skin twice a day is generally recommended—once in the morning and once in the evening. This routine helps remove excess oil, dirt, and impurities that can accumulate on the skin’s surface throughout the day and night. However, over-cleansing can strip the skin of its natural oils and potentially lead to rebound oil production, so finding the right balance is key.
What Are The Common Ingredients in Cleansers For Oily Skin?
Cleansers for oily skin often contain specific ingredients that target excess oil production, unclog pores, and promote a balanced complexion. Some common ingredients you might find in such cleansers include:
- Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid helps with oily skin in several ways. It penetrates the pores and helps remove excess oil, dirt, and debris, reducing the appearance of oiliness. It also exfoliates the skin, removing dead skin cells and unclogging pores, which can help prevent acne breakouts and promote a clearer complexion. - Glycolic Acid
An alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), such as glycolic acid, helps exfoliate the skin’s surface, promoting cell turnover and preventing clogged pores. It also assists in managing oil production. - Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is a popular natural remedy that can be beneficial for oily skin. Its natural antibacterial and antiseptic properties make it particularly useful for managing excess oil and preventing breakouts.
Read more to achieve the oil-free skin you have always desired:
- Best Toners For Oily Skin
- Best Serums for Oily Skin
- Best Moisturizers For Oily Skin
- Best Sunscreens For Oily Skin
10 Best Cleansers For Oily Skin in Malaysia 2025
1. SOME BY MI Bye Bye Blackhead Cleanser
SOMEBYMI Bye Bye Blackhead Cleanser is an excellent choice for addressing blackheads. It is specifically formulated to target blackheads, which are common among individuals with oily skin. It removes excess sebum and dead skin cells, providing a deep cleanse and helping to clear blackheads. Infused with ingredients like hibiscus tea, safflower tea, rooibos tea, and lavender tea, it not only calms the skin but also delivers antioxidants for added skin benefits.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Water, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Water (240,000Ppm), Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Glycerin, Potassium Cocoyl Glycinate, Coco-Betaine, Methyl Perfluorobutyl Ether, Methyl Perfluoroisobutyl Ether, Acrylates Copolymer, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, Carbonated Water, Jasminum Officinale (Jasmine) Flower Water, Chaenomeles Sinensis (Chinese-Quince) Fruit Extract, Diospyros Kaki (Persimmon) Leaf Extract, Cinnamomum Cassia (Cinnamon) Bark Extract, Artemisia Princeps Leaf Extract, Chrysanthellum Indicum Extract, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Hibiscus Sabdariffa (Roselle) Flower Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Geranium Maculatum (Spotted Cranesbill) Extract, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf Extract, Trifolium Pratense (Clover) Flower Extract, Alchemilla Vulgaris (Lady’S Mantle) Extract, Aspalathus Linearis (Rooibos) Extract, Helichrysum Italicum (Everlasting) Extract, Pinus Densiflora Leaf Extract, Bambusa Vulgaris (Bamboo) Extract, Thuja Orientalis Extract, Chamaecyparis Obtusa Leaf Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Water, Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola) Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Extract, Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed Extract, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Flower Extract, Polygonum Cuspidatum (Japanese Knotweed) Root Extract, Castanea Crenata (Chestnut) Shell Extract, Zanthoxylum Piperitum Fruit Extract, Saccharide Isomerate, Mannan, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Powder, Butylene Glycol, Caprylyl Glycol, Citric Acid, 1,2-Hexanediol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Benzyl Glycol, Raspberry Ketone, Caramel, Yellow 5 (Ci 19140), Blue 1 (Ci 42090), Disodium EDTA, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil
- Size Available: 120ml
- Country Of Origin: South Korea
Pros:
✅ Clears blackheads
✅ Removes dead skin cells
✅ Delivers antioxidants to the skin
Price: RM52.62
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
2. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel Cleanser
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel Cleanser is formulated to cleanse and purify the skin. It removes excess oil, dirt, and impurities, which is particularly suitable for individuals with oily or acne-prone skin. With its careful blend of ingredients, this cleanser offers effective cleansing and contributes to the overall balance of the skin, helping to ensure a refreshed and rejuvenated complexion that exudes health and vitality.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Aqua / Water, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Peg-8, Coco-Betaine, Hexylene Glycol, Sodium Chloride, Peg-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Zinc PCA, Sodium Hydroxide
- Size Available: 200ml, 400ml
- Country Of Origin: France
Pros:
✅ Removes excess sebum
✅ Reduces the visibility of blackheads and controls shine
✅ Leaves skin clean and refreshed
Price: RM67.12 – RM87.92
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
3. Eucerin Pro ACNE Solution Cleansing Foam
Eucerin Pro ACNE Solution Cleansing Foam is formulated to offer a mild cleansing experience while helping in the control and prevention of acne breakouts. It achieves an impressive 82% reduction in comedonal acne, and its specialised formulation effectively cleanses pores, minimises excess facial oil, and prevents clogging.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Myristic Acid, Propylene Glycol, Salicylic Acid, Potassium Hydroxide, Glycerin, Lauric Acid, PEG-150, PEG-8, Glyceryl Stearate, Octadecenedioic Acid, Bisabolol, Cera Alba, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, BHT, Arachidic Acid, Etidronic Acid, Disodium EDTA, Oleic Acid, Farnesol, Parfum
- Size Available: 150g
- Country Of Origin: Germany
Pros:
✅ Removes excess sebum
✅ Removes dirt and makeup residue
✅ Suitable for oily and acne-prone skin
Price: RM67.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
4. CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser
CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser is a mild yet effective skincare product that thoroughly cleans various skin types, from normal to oily and acne-prone. The cleanser, which contains important ingredients such as ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide, preserves the skin’s natural barrier, offers hydration, and soothes while effectively eliminating dirt, excess oil, and pollutants via its foaming action, leaving the skin refreshed and balanced.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Aqua / Water / Eau, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Glycerin, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Peg-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, Niacinamide, Peg-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Propylene Glycol, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Carbomer, Methylparaben, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Cholesterol, Disodium EDTA, Propylparaben, Citric Acid, Tetrasodium EDTA, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Phytosphingosine, Xanthan Gum
- Size Available: 473ml
- Country Of Origin: America
Pros:
✅ Refreshing gel foaming action
✅ Cleanses and removes oil without disrupting the protective skin barrier
✅ Non-comedogenic and fragrance-free
Price: RM89.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
5. CETAPHIL Oily Skin Cleanser
The Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser was created for people with oily or acne-prone skin. It has a delicate yet efficient formula that aids in managing excess oil production while keeping the skin’s natural balance. Using gentle surfactants removes debris, pollutants, and excess oil without disrupting the skin’s barrier. Whether you have excessive oiliness, breakouts or want a balanced and clear complexion, the Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser is a dependable alternative that prioritises the health of your skin.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Aqua, Glycerin, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Panthenol, Niacinamide, Pantholactone, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Sodium Benzoate, Parfum, Amyl Cinnamal, Citronellol, Geraniol, Hydroxycitronellal, Linalool, Sodium Chloride, Citric Acid
- Size Available: 125ml
- Country Of Origin: America
Pros:
✅ Suitable for oily, combination or acne-prone skin
✅ Reduces sebum levels in 2 weeks
✅ pH-balanced non-soap formulation
Price: RM64.20
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
6. Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil-Free Cleanser
Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil-Free Cleanser is a skincare product that provides thorough cleansing while catering to people with oily or combination skin. This non-stripping foamy face cleanser is infused with Desert Plant and Lemon Fruit Extracts and is even suitable for sensitive skin. Its oil-free formulation is designed to meet the demands of those who produce excessive oil and aids in the maintenance of a matte appearance.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Aqua / Water, Glycerin, Myristic Acid, Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid, Potassium Hydroxide, Lauric Acid, Glyceryl Distearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Kaolin, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Tetrasodium EDTA, Citrus Limon Fruit Extract / Lemon Fruit Extract, Peg-14M, Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract, Salicylic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide
- Size Available: 150ml
- Country Of Origin: America
Pros:
✅ Visibly reduces excess oil on the skin
✅ Suitable for normal, oily and sensitive skin
✅ Removes impurities and leaves skin feeling clean
Price: RM110.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
7. Sebamed Facial Cleanser for Oily and Combination Skin
Sebamed Facial Cleanser for Oily and Combination Skin is 100% soap and alkali-free, making it gentle on the skin. The cleanser contains a mild wash active complex that cleanses the skin while removing excess sebum and preventing pore clogging. The addition of Hamamelis virginiana soothes sensitive skin, while provitamin B5 supports the skin’s hydration balance.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Aqua, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Glyceryl Laurate, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Panthenol, Hamamelis virginiana bark/leaf/twig extract, Allantoin, Glycerin, Caramel, Menthol, Coco Glucoside, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, PEG-150 Distearate, Sodium Citrate, Styrenr/Acrylates Copolymer, Parfum, Phenoxyethanol, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate
- Size Available: 150ml
- Country Of Origin: Germany
Pros:
✅ Gentle on the skin
✅ Prevents the clogging of pores
✅ Supports hydration balance
Price: RM53.80
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
8. Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash
The Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash provides effective cleansing for people with acne-prone and oily skin. With an emphasis on oil control, it aims to remove excess oil, debris, and pollutants from the skin’s surface, unclogging pores and preventing breakouts. The oil-free formula is gentle but effective, making it appropriate for daily usage.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Water, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Chloride, Peg-80 Sorbitan Laurate, Citric Acid, Disodium Edta, C12-15 Alkyl Lactate, Benzalkonium Chloride, Fragrance, Cocamidopropyl Pg-Dimonium Chloride Phosphate, Glycerin, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Propylene Glycol, Sodium Hydroxide, Yellow 5, Red 40
- Size Available: 177ml, 269ml
- Country Of Origin: America
Pros:
✅ Non-comedogenic
✅ Eliminates oil
✅ Effective yet gentle
Price: RM51.00 – RM55.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
9. The Body Shop Tea Tree Skin Clearing Facial Wash
The Body Shop Tea Tree Skin Clearing Facial Wash is formulated for oily or blemished skin. Formulated with tea tree oil, renowned for its antibacterial and purifying properties, this facial wash is meticulously designed to provide a thorough cleanse, targeting deep within the skin to clear pores and regulate oil production. Its mild yet impactful cleansing action prevents and manages breakouts while enhancing the clarity and vitality of the complexion.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Aqua (Solvent/Diluent), Cocamidopropyl Betaine (Surfactant), Polysorbate 20 (Emulsifier), Coco-Glucoside (Surfactant), PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil (Emulsifier), Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil (Natural Additive), Glycerin (Humectant), Calophyllum Inophyllum Seed Oil (Skin Conditioning Agent), Myristamidopropyl PG-Dimonium Chloride Phosphate (Skin-Conditioning Agent), Citric Acid (pH Adjuster), p-Anisic Acid (pH Modifier), PVP (Hair Fixative), Salix Alba Bark Extract (Natural Additive), Sodium Hydroxide (pH Adjuster), Menthol (Cooling Agent), Limonene (Natural Additive), Leptospermum Petersonii Oil (Natural Additive), Tocopherol (Antioxidant).
- Size Available: 250ml
- Country Of Origin: United Kingdom
Pros:
✅ Reduces oiliness and shine
✅ Deeply cleanses blemished skin
✅ Skin appears visibly clearer
Price: RM53.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
10. Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Oil-Reducing Cleanser
The Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Oil-Reducing Cleanser caters to people who want to manage excess oil and maintain a balanced complexion. This cleanser is designed to meet the needs of those with a combination of oily skin. The cleanser, which has a smart blend of ingredients, seeks to give effective yet gentle cleansing. Its formulation aims to refine pores, regulate oil production, and improve skin balance.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (cleansing), Sodium Lauroamphoacetate (cleansing), Stearic Acid (texture-enhancing), Glycerin (hydration/skin-replenishing), Glycol Distearate (texture-enhancing), Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil (sunflower oil/non-fragrant oil/antioxidant), Acrylates Copolymer (texture-enhancing), Cetearyl Alcohol (texture-enhancing), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract (hydration/skin-soothing), Sodium Chloride (stabilizer), Sodium Hydroxide (pH balancing), Xanthan Gum (texture-enhancing), Caprylyl Glycol (preservative), Hexylene Glycol (preservative), Disodium EDTA (stabilizer), Phenoxyethanol (preservative)
- Size Available: 150ml
- Country Of Origin: America
Pros:
✅ Removes impurities and makeup
✅ Refines skin’s normal balance
✅ Remove excess oil
Price: RM103.50 – RM153.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
Disclosure: This list was compiled by the team at My Weekend Plan after extensive research and shared opinions to suggest helpful recommendations for the public. The sequence of brands is in no particular order so if you have any other great suggestions too, please email us support@myweekendplan.asia. For more information, kindly refer to our copyright, privacy & disclosure policy.
