Best Korean Skincare for Oily Skin & Large Pores
, by Luluwa Beauty, 12 min reading time
Struggling with oily skin, excess shine or enlarged-looking pores? Discover the best Korean skincare routine for oily skin using COSRX and Beauty of Joseon. Learn how to cleanse, exfoliate, control excess oil, hydrate and protect your skin for a smoother, healthier-looking complexion.
Best Korean Skincare for Oily Skin & Large Pores
If your skin becomes shiny during the day, your pores look more noticeable, or you regularly deal with blackheads and clogged pores, you may have oily or combination skin.
Finding the right skincare routine can make a big difference—but you don't need dozens of products.
A simple Korean skincare routine focused on gentle cleansing, pore care, lightweight hydration and daily sun protection can help oily skin look smoother, fresher and more balanced.
In this guide, we'll explain how to build the best Korean skincare routine for oily skin and large pores using popular COSRX and Beauty of Joseon products available at Lulwa Beauty.
Why Does Oily Skin Have More Visible Pores?
Everyone has pores. Their appearance can simply be more noticeable depending on your skin type and other factors.
When your skin produces more sebum, pores can appear larger, particularly around areas such as the nose, cheeks and forehead.
Oily skin may also be more prone to:
- Excess shine
- Blackheads
- Clogged pores
- Uneven-looking texture
- Breakouts
- Enlarged-looking pores
- Makeup becoming oily throughout the day
The goal isn't to remove every trace of oil.
Instead, a good skincare routine should help keep your skin clean, comfortable and hydrated while targeting excess oil and congestion.
Best Korean Skincare Routine for Oily Skin
A simple routine can include:
Cleanse → Treat → Hydrate → Moisturize → Protect
Let's look at each step.
Step 1: Start With a Gentle Cleanser
Cleansing is the foundation of an oily-skin routine.
Your cleanser should remove excess oil, sunscreen, sweat and daily impurities without leaving your skin feeling excessively dry or tight.
COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
The COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser is a popular choice for a simple daily Korean skincare routine.
Its gel texture makes it easy to incorporate into a morning and evening routine, particularly for oily and combination skin.
Use a small amount on damp skin and massage gently before rinsing thoroughly.
Avoid aggressive scrubbing, especially if your skin is already irritated or sensitive.
Shop: COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
Step 2: Exfoliate to Help With Clogged Pores
If blackheads, congestion and rough texture are your main concerns, adding a BHA exfoliant can be useful.
BHA is commonly used in skincare routines focused on clogged pores and excess sebum.
COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid
COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid is designed for pore care and blackhead-prone skin.
It can help remove dead skin cells and excess buildup while improving the appearance of congested skin.
If you are new to exfoliating acids, don't start by using the product every day.
Begin gradually and increase frequency only as your skin tolerates it.
How to use BHA
After cleansing:
- Dry your skin gently.
- Apply a small amount of BHA.
- Allow it to absorb.
- Follow with your hydrating and moisturizing products.
Start around 2–3 times per week and adjust according to your skin's tolerance.
Avoid using multiple strong exfoliating products at the same time.
Step 3: Target the Appearance of Pores With Niacinamide
Niacinamide is one of the most popular ingredients in Korean skincare.
It is commonly included in routines focused on:
- Excess oil
- Enlarged-looking pores
- Uneven skin tone
- Post-breakout marks
- Dull-looking skin
COSRX The Niacinamide 15 Serum
COSRX The Niacinamide 15 Serum is a high-strength niacinamide serum designed for concerns including excess oil, enlarged-looking pores and uneven skin tone.
If you're new to high-strength niacinamide, introduce it gradually rather than immediately adding it to an already active routine.
Simple tip
If you're already using BHA, avoid introducing several other strong active products at the same time.
A simpler routine makes it easier to understand how your skin responds.
Step 4: Try a Pore-Refining Treatment
If visible pores and excess sebum are your biggest concerns, you can also consider a dedicated pore-care product.
COSRX Two In One Poreless Power Liquid
This product is designed for oily and combination skin with concerns such as enlarged-looking pores, excess sebum and uneven texture.
It can be incorporated into a targeted pore-care routine.
However, you don't need to use every pore-targeting product together.
Choose products according to your skin's needs and introduce them gradually.
Step 5: Don't Skip Hydration
This is one of the most important rules for oily skin:
Oily skin still needs hydration.
Many people with oily skin make the mistake of avoiding hydrating products because they don't want their skin to feel greasy.
But hydration and oil are not the same thing.
A lightweight hydrating product can help your routine feel more comfortable without adding a heavy layer.
COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence is a lightweight hydrating essence containing 96% snail secretion filtrate.
It can be used after cleansing and before moisturizer.
It is particularly useful if you want to add hydration to your routine without relying on a very heavy cream.
Step 6: Choose a Lightweight Moisturizer
Oily skin doesn't mean you should skip moisturizer.
Instead, choose a texture that feels comfortable for your skin.
Beauty of Joseon Red Bean Water Gel
Beauty of Joseon Red Bean Water Gel is a lightweight gel moisturizer that can work well in routines where you prefer a fresh, non-heavy texture.
It is especially useful for people who don't enjoy rich creams during the day.
For drier skin
If your skin is oily in some areas but dry in others, you may prefer a richer moisturizer such as Beauty of Joseon Dynasty Cream.
The best choice depends on your skin's hydration needs.
Step 7: Sunscreen Is Essential
Your morning routine isn't complete without sunscreen.
Daily sun protection is particularly important when your routine contains exfoliating products.
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF50+ PA++++
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF50+ PA++++ is a popular lightweight Korean sunscreen that can be used as the final step of your morning routine.
Apply sunscreen generously and reapply when appropriate, particularly during prolonged outdoor exposure.
Best Korean Skincare Routine for Oily Skin
Here is a simple routine you can start with.
Morning Routine
Step 1
COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
Step 2
COSRX The Niacinamide 15 Serum
Step 3
COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
Step 4
Beauty of Joseon Red Bean Water Gel
Step 5
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF50+ PA++++
Evening Routine
Step 1
COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
Step 2
COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid — start 2–3 times per week
Step 3
COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
Step 4
Lightweight moisturizer
You don't necessarily need BHA and niacinamide every time you cleanse. Build your routine gradually according to your skin's needs and tolerance.
Best Korean Skincare for Large Pores
If your main concern is the appearance of large pores, focus on three areas:
1. Control Excess Oil
A gentle cleanser and appropriate skincare can help remove excess oil without excessively drying your skin.
2. Keep Pores Clear
BHA is commonly used in routines targeting blackheads and clogged pores.
3. Keep Skin Hydrated
Dehydrated skin can look rough and uneven.
Lightweight hydration can help your complexion look smoother and healthier.
Recommended Lulwa Beauty Pore Care Products
For a pore-focused routine, consider:
COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
For daily cleansing.
COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid
For blackheads and clogged pores.
COSRX Two In One Poreless Power Liquid
For pore-refining care.
COSRX The Niacinamide 15 Serum
For excess oil, uneven tone and the appearance of pores.
COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
For lightweight hydration.
Best Korean Skincare for Oily and Acne-Prone Skin
If you have both oily skin and frequent breakouts, you may want a more targeted routine.
Lulwa Beauty's Acne Control Bundle combines a cleanser, BHA treatment, niacinamide serum, acne patches and sunscreen into one routine designed for oily, combination and acne-prone skin.
The bundle is specifically positioned around concerns such as excess oil, blackheads, clogged pores and breakouts.
Another Option: Blackhead Removal Bundle
For customers whose main concern is blackheads and clogged pores, the COSRX Blackhead Removal Bundle combines:
- COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
- COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid
- COSRX Two In One Poreless Power Liquid
This creates a more targeted pore-care routine.
Oily Skin in Qatar: What Should You Consider?
Qatar's hot climate can make skincare feel more challenging, particularly if your skin already tends to become oily.
During hot weather, you may prefer:
- Lightweight gel textures
- Non-heavy moisturizers
- Lightweight sunscreens
- Gentle cleansers
- Simple skincare routines
- Consistent sun protection
However, avoid the temptation to over-cleanse simply because your skin feels oily.
A simple, consistent routine is usually easier to maintain than a routine with too many products.
Common Skincare Mistakes for Oily Skin
1. Washing Your Face Too Many Times
More cleansing doesn't necessarily mean less oil.
Excessive cleansing can leave your skin feeling dry or uncomfortable.
2. Using Harsh Scrubs
Physical scrubbing isn't necessary for achieving smoother-looking skin.
Instead, choose gentle skincare and appropriate exfoliation.
3. Skipping Moisturizer
Oily skin still needs hydration.
4. Using Too Many Active Ingredients
Using BHA, AHA, retinol, strong vitamin C and other active ingredients together can make a routine unnecessarily complicated.
Introduce products gradually.
5. Skipping Sunscreen
Oily skin still needs daily sun protection.
6. Trying to Completely Eliminate Oil
Healthy skin naturally produces sebum.
The goal should be balanced-looking skin rather than completely oil-free skin.
How Many Products Do You Need?
You don't need a 10-step routine.
For many people, a simple routine can start with:
Cleanser + treatment + moisturizer + sunscreen
You can then add products such as BHA, niacinamide or a hydrating essence according to your individual concerns.
Simple Beginner Routine
If you're completely new to Korean skincare, start with:
Morning
- Cleanser
- Moisturizer
- Sunscreen
Evening
- Cleanser
- Hydrating essence
- Moisturizer
Once your skin is comfortable with this routine, you can gradually introduce targeted products.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Korean skincare help oily skin?
Korean skincare offers many products formulated around cleansing, hydration, pore care and oil-control routines. The right products depend on your individual skin type and concerns.
What is the best Korean cleanser for oily skin?
A lightweight cleanser such as COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser can be a good option for a simple daily skincare routine.
What is the best Korean skincare ingredient for large pores?
Niacinamide and BHA are commonly used in routines targeting excess oil, clogged pores and the appearance of enlarged pores.
Can oily skin use snail mucin?
Yes. Snail mucin is a hydrating ingredient and can be incorporated into routines for different skin types, including oily and combination skin.
Should oily skin use moisturizer?
Yes. Oily skin still needs hydration. Choose a lightweight moisturizer if you dislike heavy textures.
How often should I use BHA?
If you're new to BHA, start gradually, such as 2–3 times per week, and adjust according to your skin's tolerance and the product's directions.
Can pores actually disappear?
Pores are a normal part of skin and cannot literally disappear. However, keeping skin clean, hydrated and appropriately exfoliated can help improve the appearance of pores.
Shop Korean Skincare for Oily Skin at Lulwa Beauty
Looking for Korean skincare for oily skin, blackheads, clogged pores or enlarged-looking pores?
At Lulwa Beauty, you can discover authentic COSRX and Beauty of Joseon skincare products and curated routines designed around different skin concerns.
Explore our:
Build a simple routine based on your skin type and concerns.
Final Thoughts
The best Korean skincare routine for oily skin doesn't need to be complicated.
Start with gentle cleansing, introduce targeted ingredients such as BHA or niacinamide gradually, keep your skin hydrated and finish your morning routine with sunscreen.
If enlarged-looking pores are your main concern, focus on consistent pore care rather than trying to eliminate your pores completely.
With the right products and a consistent routine, oily skin can look smoother, fresher and more balanced.
Discover Korean skincare for oily skin and large pores at Lulwa Beauty and build your routine today.