How to Use Oil Blotting Paper to Manage Oily Skin

You might have the perfect skincare routine, but if your skin is oily, controlling shine can be a challenge. This is especially true if you live in a hot, humid climate (which often leads to increased sebum production) or use liquid makeup products like foundation. While oily skin itself isn’t a huge problem, it can become frustrating when it seems impossible to manage. And since washing your face in the middle of the day isn’t always practical (or desirable), you’ll need something to quickly reduce shine while on the go—this is where oil blotting paper comes in.

These small, compact sheets, also known as blotting papers, absorb excess oil, leaving your skin with a matte finish. If you’re not familiar with blotting papers and how they work, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. We’ll walk you through how to use them, and provide some extra skincare tips to help you control excess oil. Keep reading to learn how to keep your oily skin balanced and refreshed.

What is Oil Blotting Paper?

Originally, oil blotting paper was used to absorb excess ink from pens and inkwells during the writing era. At some point, skincare enthusiasts realized they could apply the same principle to the skin—using absorbent materials like paper to soak up excess oil on the skin’s surface. Unlike other mattifying products, such as powders, oil blotting papers are often preferred because they can be used frequently without causing the skin to look cakey. They are also incredibly portable, with most blotting paper packaging fitting easily into a pocket or small bag.

While they’re often called “blotting paper,” these sheets aren’t always made from paper. They can be crafted from various materials. Some have a light layer of powder to help further mattify the skin and extend makeup wear, while others contain ingredients aimed at addressing skin issues like blemishes. The best blotting paper for you is the one that suits your preferences, so don’t hesitate to try different types until you find the right one.

How to Use Oil Blotting Paper

Using oil blotting paper is incredibly simple: all you need to do is press the sheet against the oily areas of your face. For example, if your T-zone tends to get greasy, you can take a sheet and gently press it on your nose, forehead, and chin to absorb the oil. The blotting paper will soak up the excess oil, giving your skin a matte appearance. Once the sheet is “full” (meaning it’s absorbed all the oil), simply discard it. Keep in mind, you might need several sheets to blot your entire face, and you can reapply as often as necessary to keep oil production to a minimum throughout the day.

4 Tips to Help Control Oily Skin

While oil blotting paper is an essential tool in your skincare routine, there are many other ways to help manage oily skin. Here are four tips to help you keep excess oil at bay.

Tip 1: Use Kiehl’s Daily Exfoliating Cleanser

No matter your skin type, cleansing is the first step in any skincare routine. However, if you have oily skin, it becomes even more crucial, as regular cleansing helps remove excess oil.

A great option is the Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Pore Daily Cleanser, which helps reduce oil while maintaining your skin’s balance. Regular exfoliation can prevent clogged pores and ensure a fresh, clean feel.

Tip 2: Keep Your Skin Hydrated

If your skin feels excessively oily, using a moisturizer might seem counterintuitive, but it’s actually incredibly beneficial. Many people with oily skin avoid moisturizers because they’re worried about looking greasy. However, neglecting to hydrate your skin can lead to dehydration, causing your body to produce even more oil to compensate. In short: skipping moisturizer can make your skin even oilier.

Tip 3: Choose a Mattifying Moisturizer

Even if you’re using a serum, it’s essential to include a moisturizer in your routine to maintain hydration. Look for an oil-free, mattifying moisturizer like the Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream, which hydrates without leaving a greasy finish. This type of moisturizer helps to control shine and keeps your skin feeling fresh and balanced.

Tip 4: Do a Weekly Face Mask

While oil blotting paper is a quick fix, for long-term control of oily skin, consider incorporating a clay mask into your weekly skincare routine. The Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleansing Clay Mask is perfect for minimizing pores and deeply cleansing the skin. Using this mask once a week can help absorb excess oil and maintain a clear, matte complexion.

Conclusion

Oil blotting paper is an essential tool for anyone with oily skin. It’s a quick and effective way to reduce shine throughout the day without disrupting your makeup or skincare. However, managing oily skin goes beyond just blotting away excess oil. By following a skincare routine that includes proper cleansing, hydration, and weekly treatments, you can achieve a well-balanced, matte complexion. With the right products and techniques, oily skin can look fresh and radiant without the unwanted shine.