Oily Skin Routine for Mumbai (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 Lightweight gel moisturiser 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
MoisturiseLightweight gel moisturiser

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
MoisturiseLightweight gel moisturiser

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
MoisturiseLightweight gel moisturiser

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
MoisturiseLightweight gel moisturiser

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
MoisturiseLightweight gel moisturiser

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
MoisturiseLightweight gel moisturiser

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
MoisturiseLightweight gel moisturiser

Tips for your skin

In humid weather, layer thin: gel textures, a matte sunscreen and blotting paper instead of re-powdering.

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 Mumbai

Heavy creams rarely work here. Stick to gel moisturisers and matte gel sunscreens, and consider salicylic acid in monsoon when sweat and humidity trigger breakouts.

Summer routine (March–June)Monsoon routine (July–September)Winter routine (November–February)

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 Mumbai?

Morning: salicylic acid gel cleanser (0.5–2%), niacinamide serum (4–5%), lightweight gel moisturiser, 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 Mumbai's weather?

Matte gel sunscreen SPF 50, PA++++. UV in Mumbai: high all year. Reapply every 2–3 hours outdoors.

How should I change my routine by season in Mumbai?