If your nose gets shiny by afternoon while your cheeks stay normal or even dry, you’re not alone. The nose is naturally one of the oiliest areas of the face. Here’s why:
1. More oil glands on the nose
The T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) has a high concentration of sebaceous glands. These glands are constantly producing sebum, which is why oil shows up here first.
2. Larger pores
The pores on the nose are bigger than pores on the cheeks. Bigger pores = more sebum coming out and more chance of blackheads.
3. Genetics
Even if your overall skin type is normal or combination, your T-zone can still behave oily.
4. Sweat & heat accumulate here
Masks, glasses, and sun exposure warm the nose area, making glands produce even more oil.
5. Over-washing or drying cleansers
When skin is stripped, it produces extra oil to compensate — and the nose responds first.
How to control an oily nose without drying the rest of the face
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Use a gentle gel or foaming cleanser twice a day
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Apply a niacinamide or pore-refining serum on the T-zone
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Exfoliate 1–2 times a week (salicylic acid works best for clogged nose pores + blackheads)
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Pick a lightweight, non-oily moisturizer
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Use blotting papers instead of washing multiple times
