Skip to main content

The Manual may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

Lab Series’ New Oil Control Grooming Line Prevents Summer Sheen

Image used with permission by copyright holder

Because we’re men, our faces naturally product more oils than our female counterparts. This has its benefits. More oily skin is great because our faces tend to age better naturally over time thanks to the increased hydration, but on the flip side, it also means our faces become sheen-coated, shiny oil-slicks by early afternoon in summer, accompanied by follow-up breakouts and blemishes. There are ways of preventing this afternoon oil show like mattifying moisturizers, blotting papers, and avoiding going outside when both the heat and humidity get too high. But avoiding daylight hours is impractical, mattifying moisturizers can’t do it all alone to prevent midday shine, and blotting papers only solve the symptom, not the problem. Wouldn’t it be great if there were a system of skincare products dedicated to reducing the oil pouring from our manly pores? Thanks to Lab Series, there is.

Lab Series new Oil Control Trio composed of a clay cleanser and mask, a clearing solution (or toner), and an oil control moisturizer. Combined, the three products create a powerful trifecta of oil fighters.

Recommended Videos
Oil Control Clay Cleanser + Mask – $26
Image used with permission by copyright holder

The first step in the three-step process is actually a two-fer. Lab Series Oil Control Clay Cleanser + Mask works as both an effective cleansing face wash and an oil-absorbing clay mask. When used as a face wash, it elminates oil, dirt, and pore-clogging junk while reducing the size of pores. When used as a mask, it absorbs excess oil and unclogs pores all while provide another dose of instant mattification. We found that using this as a mask and then a cleanser directly after is a little too drying, so steer clear of doubling up on this bad boy unless you’ve got an oil-derrick ready face.

See It

Oil Control Clearing Solution – $22
Image used with permission by copyright holder

This toner, the second step in the three-step process, also contains Amazonian white clay, with the added benefits of including algae extract  to calm and reduce signs of irritation and redness, and Witch Hazel, a natural astringent, to remove excess oil and tighten pores. These three ingredients combined help to slough off dead skin cells, reduce oil, and balance the skin. And, according to Lab Series, with frequent use, the Oil Control Clearing Solution can actually work to reduce and regulate sebum production–meaning over time, your face will actually get less oil. Win!

See It

Oil Control Daily Moisturizer – $36
Image used with permission by copyright holder

This oil-free moisturizer includes Amazonian white clay, known for its ability to absorb excess oil while detoxifying, salicylic acid to minimize breakouts and exfoliate the skin’s first layer, and sea whip extract for its soothing properties. Apply this moisturizer after the next two steps and ride out the next eight hours shine-free. If you’re already oil by the time you slather this on, not to worry, because it also offers instant mattification, meaning you can swipe it on and be ready to head out the door in the same moment.

See It

And now that you’ve found your oily-skin solution, make sure to keep up the good work when it comes to sun protection too. Check out the best non-greasy sunscreens for guys with oily skin. Your beach bod will thank you.

Chase McPeak
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Chase McPeak is the former Lifestyle Editor. Chase regularly appeared on Beards, Booze, and Bacon: The Manual Podcast where…
Achieve the look: Your guide to the Travis Kelce haircut
Get an NFL-worthy fade
Travis Kelse at the CMT Music Awards

Sports and entertainment tend to have a massive influence on our society's grasp of style. Some of the best trends can be attributed to our favorite actors, musicians, and athletic heroes sporting the looks we love. Miles Teller and Henry Cavil can be directly thanked for their contributions to the return of the mustache. Marlon Brando and James Dean found ways to take functional garments like the leather jacket and the everlasting denim jeans to rebellious casual. And, of course, nobody can take more credit for the aviator sunglasses trend than Tom Cruise.

Our hairstyles are also often copied from the uber-famous, and NFL superstar Travis Kelce is doing his part to contribute, as he sports a very specific look. Here's how to achieve and rock the Travis Kelce haircut.
What haircut does Travis Kelce wear?
 

Read more
The surfer curtains haircut is the latest 90s style comeback
The haircut that is giving us all the nostalgic feels
Man with long hair and glasses

Celebrities tend to play a huge part in pushing style trends on a yearly basis. In the early 2000s, the rise of the pop star launched the low-rise jeans. The hip-hop culture drove the explosion of sneakers and baggy clothing. And James Bond continues to influence the elevated looks worn by men everywhere.

When it comes to hair, Bruce Willis and Jason Statham made the bald look sexy, while the likes of Jason Mamoa and Chris Hemsworth brought the long hair vibe to the forefront. But there is a new hair trend returning to prominence, and it will bring back the nostalgic vision of the 90s: The surfer curtains.

Read more
Electric shaver vs. razor: Which is better for your face?
An answer to the age old question of which shave method is better
Bald man shaving face over sink

Whether you are the kind of guy who likes to rock the clean shaven look while you conquer Wall Street in a suit, or you are the kind of guy that likes to sport the long and thick mane of a beard while you work outdoors, you have to shave your face. Shaving all over or simply shaping your beard means you are involved in the age-old question of electric shaver vs razor. Of course, which you choose has a lot to do with your lifestyle.

Just like trying to decide what the best shoes are for you, or electing to dive into what the best suits are for you, it all comes down to the kind of lifestyle you lead. If you are an outdoorsman, you have very specific needs for your shave routine. It needs to be fast and portable. If you are a man with a love of luxury, then you may love to take your time with a solid routine. That may even be the kind of self-care you need to center yourself in the morning.

Read more