By Fizza Anis
Skincare for oily skin in Pakistan isn’t just about keeping shine away, but it’s about finding products that work with our climate, diet, and diverse skin types. Humid, spicy food, polluted and, in some cases, poorly-produced products make our environment less friendly to oily skin care. There is a need to change the language that Pakistanis use to refer to skin. From beauty ads filled with gori models to imported skincare advice that doesn’t suit our climate or complexions, it’s clear our skin deserves its spotlight.
That’s why this 2025 guide is different. We are being unapologetically authentic, not hyping up skincare for other countries, on other skins, but instead featuring skincare products that can be found in Pakistan and cater to Pakistani skin, using ingredients that will not harm, strip, or encourage unrealistic beauty standards but rather nourish melanin-rich skin.
Whether you’re prepping for a mehndi, rushing to class, or just trying to avoid midday shine, these picks are for you.
What to Look for in Skincare for Oily Skin
So you must be confused by the rivers of information provided by bloggers and skincare-obsessed people, who speak fluent skincare ingredients and products, which are unfamiliar to you? Fear not behn aur bhai. Your general care practice should be oil control in Pakistani climate with no need to dry the skin. You do not need hundreds or a pile of stuff that your face spills oil on, but for now, you can settle with the fundamentals without breaking your wallet and bank. Focus on cleansers, toners, preferably alcohol free, water-based moisturizers with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or niacinamide, and sunscreens.
Best Skincare Products for Oily Skin in Pakistan
Best Cleansers for Oily Skin in Pakistan
- Mamaorganics Tea Tree Face Wash
Price: Rs. 1,200 – 1,500
Why we love it: Locally made, cruelty-free and gentle to oily and acne prone skin with antibacterial tea tree oil. - St. Ives Green Tea Cleanser
Price: Rs. 900 – 1,200
Why it’s great: Balances oil, fights breakouts, and is easily available in many Pakistani stores. - WB by Hemani Activated Charcoal Face Wash
Price: Rs. 600 – 900
Why we like it: Local, effective for deep cleansing without stripping skin.
Oily Skin-Friendly Toners (Derm-Tested)
- HER Beauty Witch Hazel Toner
Why it works: Alcohol-free, balances oil, and dermatologically tested. - Trego Cucumber Hydrating Toner
Locally made & affordable: Great for sensitive oily skin, especially in summer. - Olim Naturals Rose Water Mist
Simple but effective: 100% pure rosewater — great as a refreshing toner or mid-day skin reset.
Best Moisturizers for Oily Skin in Pakistan
- Mamaorganics Lightweight Gel Moisturizer
Non comedogenic: Does not hydrate heaviness, and it is recommended to use with oily/combination skin. - Plush Naturals Aloe Moisture Gel
Cruelty-free & vegan: Moisturizes and repairs using all-natural ingredients. - The Body Shop Seaweed Gel Cream
Globally trusted: Oil-balancing and lightweight, suitable for hot weather.
Sunscreens That Work for Oily Skin in Pakistan
Solotan SPF 50 Sunblock (WB by Hemani)
Good budget pick: Local, light formula, easy to find.
Plush Naturals SPF 50 Sunscreen Gel
Why we trust it: Locally made, non-greasy, and cruelty-free.
Arabelle by Dr. MM Mineral Sunscreen
Lightweight & dermatologist-approved: Works well under makeup too.
Dealing with the Grey Market: A Note of Caution
Most of the international brands abroad that are retailed in the Pakistani stores (even online) are not original or are not FDA-approved. Purchasing in unconfirmed stores might result in expired, counterfeited, or diluted products. Whenever possible:
- Shop from official stores (like MamaOrganics HER beauty, CoNatural official)
- Always check batch codes
- Shop from reputable supermarkets like Al Fattah
- Support local brands with real transparency
Skincare for Us, by Us
Our skin is mixed in color, texture, and melanin and requirements. The various levels of melanin, the climatic conditions of the region we live in, and the stressors of city life are evidence enough that what is effective in the West is not necessarily going to be effective here. It is about time to decolonize our skincare practice and give space to the knowledge growing in our communities and realities of our skin. No to gora-centric YouTube advertisement, whitewashing, and one-size-fits-all monotony. Hold our local markets and brands accountable and demand greater desi-centric, science-based skincare, practiced with an ethical ethos, because of not causing harm to animals and humans.
Let us promote the work of Pakistani brands and teach ourselves about the science of oily skin. Not all the most effective skin products have to be the most expensive, just those that know your skin best
