Oily Skin Routine for London (AM & PM)

Every morning

Cleanse Salicylic acid gel cleanser (0.5–2%) About Salicylic Acid Shop

Treat Niacinamide serum (4–5%) About Niacinamide Shop

Moisturise Ceramide cream About Ceramides Shop

Protect Matte gel sunscreen SPF 50, PA++++ About Sunscreen Shop

Night rotation

MonActive nightAdapalene 0.1% gel (pea-size, whole face)

1
CleanseCleansing balm or micellar water (removes SPF, pollution)
2
CleanseGentle foaming gel cleanser
3
TreatAdapalene 0.1% gel (pea-size, whole face)
4
MoisturiseCeramide cream + 2 drops squalane

TueRecovery nightHyaluronic acid or snail mucin essence

1
CleanseCleansing balm or micellar water (removes SPF, pollution)
2
CleanseGentle foaming gel cleanser
3
HydrateHyaluronic acid or snail mucin essence
4
MoisturiseCeramide cream + 2 drops squalane

WedExfoliation nightSalicylic acid 2% serum

1
CleanseCleansing balm or micellar water (removes SPF, pollution)
2
CleanseGentle foaming gel cleanser
3
ExfoliateSalicylic acid 2% serum
4
MoisturiseCeramide cream + 2 drops squalane

ThuRecovery nightHyaluronic acid or snail mucin essence

1
CleanseCleansing balm or micellar water (removes SPF, pollution)
2
CleanseGentle foaming gel cleanser
3
HydrateHyaluronic acid or snail mucin essence
4
MoisturiseCeramide cream + 2 drops squalane

FriActive nightAdapalene 0.1% gel (pea-size, whole face)

1
CleanseCleansing balm or micellar water (removes SPF, pollution)
2
CleanseGentle foaming gel cleanser
3
TreatAdapalene 0.1% gel (pea-size, whole face)
4
MoisturiseCeramide cream + 2 drops squalane

SatRecovery nightHyaluronic acid or snail mucin essence

1
CleanseCleansing balm or micellar water (removes SPF, pollution)
2
CleanseGentle foaming gel cleanser
3
HydrateHyaluronic acid or snail mucin essence
4
MoisturiseCeramide cream + 2 drops squalane

SunExfoliation nightSalicylic acid 2% serum

1
CleanseCleansing balm or micellar water (removes SPF, pollution)
2
CleanseGentle foaming gel cleanser
3
ExfoliateSalicylic acid 2% serum
4
MoisturiseCeramide cream + 2 drops squalane

Tips for your skin

In cold weather, cut exfoliation in half, switch to a cream cleanser and add an occlusive (squalane, shea) at night.

Expect some purging for 4–6 weeks after starting an active. Change your pillowcase twice a week and do not pick.

Retinoid nights: apply on fully dry skin. If you sting, use the "sandwich" method (moisturiser, then retinoid, then moisturiser).

On high-AQI days, double cleanse every night. A morning antioxidant (vitamin C or niacinamide) helps neutralise pollution damage.

We kept Adapalene and Salicylic Acid on separate nights on purpose: use with caution when layered.

Patch test every new product on your jawline for 2–3 nights before using it on your whole face.

Budget tip: Indian D2C brands sell single-active serums for ₹300–₹700 that match premium formulas. Pay for sunscreen first.

Seasonal changes for London

Heating season calls for richer creams. Wear SPF 30 daily from March to October, because UVA still ages skin on cloudy days.

Want it tailored further?

This routine assumes a common concern for oily skin (acne & breakouts) and a starter budget. Open it in the routine builder to change your concern, age or budget.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best skincare routine for Oily skin in London?

Morning: salicylic acid gel cleanser (0.5–2%), niacinamide serum (4–5%), ceramide cream, matte gel sunscreen spf 50, pa++++. At night, rotate adapalene 0.1% gel (pea-size, whole face) with recovery nights of hydration and barrier repair.

Which sunscreen is best for London's weather?

Matte gel sunscreen SPF 50, PA++++. UV in London: low–moderate. Reapply every 2–3 hours outdoors.

How should I change my routine by season in London?