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…
Quick! This BabylissPro foil shaver is 30% off at Amazon
The BabylissPro Barberology FX3 Foil Shaver on a white background.

If you’ve been debating whether you need an electric shaver or a conventional razor, how about checking out the BabylissPro Barberology FX3 Foil Shaver? It’s one of Amazon’s limited time deals and it's 30% off. Instead of its usual price of $110, it’s down to $77 for a limited time, so you’re saving $33. Now could well be the perfect time to buy, so here’s all you need to know before you commit to a purchase.

Why you should buy the BabylissPro Barberology FX3 Foil Shaver
The FX3 Collection is the third generation of Italian-powered products from the company. That means the BabylissPro Barberology FX3 Foil Shaver features an advanced high-speed motor, an ultra-sleek ergonomic European housing, and a unique embedded carbon texture grip surface.

Read more
The best men’s grooming products for hair: The ultimate list
Keep your hair looking its best in 2024 with these products
Man getting hair washed in salon

One of the very first things people notice about us when they meet us is our hair. Whether you rock the bald look like Dwayne Johnson, the perfect quaff like Chris Evans, or the long flowing locks of Jason Mamoa, your hair sends a message.

However, no matter which hairstyle you like to sport, taking care of your hair is key to ensuring you always look and feel your best. That is why we here at The Manual spend tons of time testing and searching for the best in grooming products, culminating in the annual Grooming Awards.

Read more
Do you really need a serum? Derms weigh in on the skincare trend
What dermatologists actually think about face serums for men
a person applying serum to a countr

Remember the good old days when we relied on a skincare regimen of soap and water? Maybe not, depending on how many candles were on your last birthday cake, but skincare was once as straightforward as that, especially for men. However, modern advances like gentle cleansers and moisturizers allowed deeper cleans and softer, smoother, and well-hydrated skin. Specific ingredients in these products also helped target or reduce the risk for common skin concerns, including acne and sun protection, while delaying signs of aging. These days, skincare has expanded, sometimes to luxurious-looking but rather complicated 12-step routines. Face serums often make these regimens and even more scaled-back ones.

What are serums, and do they belong in your routine?

Read more