Routine for Repairing Dull & Oily Skin

One problem that many of us struggle with is dullness and oily skin, especially living in India, where the heat, humidity, dust, and pollution are well-known enemies of the skin. You might try expensive face washes, fancy creams, or even salon facials—but if the glow still isn’t showing up, it’s time to go back to the basics.
So, how can one get back that natural-looking looking radiant skin? What can you do daily to control oil and reduce dullness?
Let’s break it down for you.
Morning Skincare Routine for Oily & Dull Skin
Begin your day correctly in order to regulate the secretion of sebum and shield your skin from environmental factors.
1. Gentle Face Wash
Choose a mild foaming face cleaner that can get rid of the excessive oil but should not make your skin tight. Look for ingredients like salicylic acid and tea tree oil as they will help to unblock the pores and prevent the formation of acne.
Tip: Avoid over-washing your face. Twice a day is enough, or you might dry it out, causing it to produce even more sebum.
2. Toner (Alcohol-Free)
Toners assist with minimizing open pores and restoring the skin’s natural pH balance. Choose one with either witch hazel or rose water—these calm the skin and reduce oiliness.
3. Lightweight Moisturiser
Yes, even oily skin needs moisturiser. Use a water-based moisturizer that is oil-free and helps in the nourishing of the skin without leaving the face greasy.
4. Sunscreen (SPF 30 or above)
Sunscreen is non-negotiable. Ultraviolet radiation affects your skin; it makes your skin dull, uneven, and age faster. You should go in for gel-based sunscreens if you have oily skin.
Night Skincare Routine for Repairing and Rejuvenation
Night is when your skin heals. A good night routine can do wonders for dullness and oil control.
1. Double Cleanse (if you wear makeup or sunscreen)
Use micellar water or a cleansing balm to remove makeup and sunscreen, followed by your regular face wash.
2. Exfoliate (2-3 times a week)
Dead skin cells can block pores and make skin look dull. Use a gentle exfoliator with fine particles or try chemical exfoliants like glycolic acid (in small concentrations) to brighten skin.
3. Serum with Vitamin C or Niacinamide
These ingredients are known to boost glow and even out skin tone. Vitamin C fights free radicals, while niacinamide reduces oil production and acne.
4. Moisturiser or Night Cream
Choose one with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or aloe vera to hydrate without making your skin greasy.
Bonus Tip: Add Collagen to Your Daily Routine
Skincare isn’t just about what you apply on the outside—it’s also about what you feed your skin from within. Collagen is a key protein that keeps your skin firm, plump, and youthful. But as we age (even from our 20s), collagen production naturally reduces.
This is where collagen supplements can help.
Benefits of Collagen Supplements for Skin:
- Improve skin elasticity
- Reduce dullness and dryness
- Delay signs of ageing like fine lines and sagging
- Support overall skin hydration and glow
You can try collagen tablets or collagen powders—both are easy to include in your daily routine. Just make sure you choose a supplement with hydrolysed collagen peptides and Vitamin C for better absorption.
Note: Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplement.
What about Collagen Side Effects?
When taken in the right dosage, collagen supplements are generally safe for most people. However, some may experience:
- Mild bloating or stomach upsets
- Allergies (especially if the collagen is sourced from fish or shellfish)
- Bad aftertaste (with low-quality brands)
To avoid collagen side effects, always pick high-quality, tested products and check the ingredient list. Plant-based or marine collagen options are also available if you prefer non-bovine sources.
Diet & Lifestyle Tips to Boost Skin Health
Even the best skincare won’t help if your diet and lifestyle are not supporting your skin.
1. Stay Hydrated
Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily to flush out toxins and keep your skin hydrated from within.
2. Eat Collagen-Rich Foods
Bone broth, fish, chicken skin, and egg whites are natural sources of collagen. You can also eat Vitamin C-rich fruits (like oranges, amla, guava) to support collagen production.
3. Cut Down on Junk Food
Oily, spicy food can trigger more oil production and acne. Try switching to home-cooked, balanced meals.
4. Sleep Well
Your skin repairs itself at night. 7-8 hours of quality sleep is essential for glowing skin.
5. Manage Stress
High stress = more breakouts. Practice yoga, meditation, or even simple deep breathing to calm your mind.
Weekly Skin TLC (Tender Loving Care)
Once a week, treat your skin to a simple DIY or store-bought face mask.
For oily skin:
- Multani mitti (Fuller’s Earth) + rose water
- Aloe vera gel + turmeric + honey
For dull skin:
- Besan (gram flour) + curd + lemon juice
- Banana + honey mask
These homemade packs are gentle, effective, and affordable!
FAQs
Q. Can I use collagen supplements for oily skin?
Yes! Collagen supplements for skin work from within and are suitable for all skin types, including oily skin. They help in improving overall skin texture and brightness.
Q. How long does it take to see results from collagen tablets?
Usually, you may start noticing a difference in 4–6 weeks. However, consistency is key. Keep taking the supplement daily for best results.
Q. Can I apply collagen directly to my skin?
Topical collagen creams exist, but they don’t absorb deeply into the skin. Oral collagen supplements are more effective in improving skin elasticity and glow.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need a complicated 10-step skincare routine or expensive salon visits to fix dull and oily skin. All you need is a daily habit, healthy diet, hydration, and maybe the right collagen supplements to support skin health from the inside.
Remember, glowing skin is a reflection of a healthy lifestyle. Stay patient, stay consistent, and give your skin the love it deserves.