How to skip the shine in an instant

Cleansing mattifies the skin by removing excess sebum from the surface. For a longer lasting effect, choose a micellar water that's rich in zinc, the mineral that regulates sebum production. 

If your skin is very oily, use a gentle face scrub every couple of days to keep it clear and reduce sebum build up. Excess sebum can build up in pores, leading to spots and blackheads. Be sure to focus on the T-zone, as this area has a higher concentration of sebaceous glands. But do go gently ; excessive cleansing and scrubbing can lead to a production of even more oil, as your skin works to replace what's missing.

After cleansing, apply a purifying lotion or toner rich in essential oils. Peppermint, rosemary, lavender and thyme are all good. This will remove any excess cleanser or sebum and even out imperfections. It will also help any creams or serums that follow to absorb better. 

Twice weekly, apply a clay mask to absorb excess oil and deeply cleanse the skin. Leave it on for 10 minutes and then simply rinse off. If it's just your T-zone that is oily, apply it to this area only.

Moisturisers geared at oily skin contain purifying active ingredients to balance and regulate sebum, alongside absorbent, mattifying substances. They tighten the pores, inhibit sebum secretion and reduce shine.

A far more holistic; but nonetheless effective solution; to oily skin is an alum stone, which controls sebum production through its ability to absorb substances. Apply this crystal-like stone morning and/or night in its natural form, using gentle circular movements across the face. Alum stone also has anti-bacterial and healing properties, which makes it ideal for spot-prone skin. You can even use one after shaving to soothe and help prevent ingrown hairs !

These can be gently applied over make-up to problem areas such as the forehead, nose and chin, where they will act as blotters thanks to their absorbent ingredients (usually they will contain talc, kaolin or zinc). Make sure you keep a pack in your bag so you can touch up on the go.

After using a mattifying wipe, you can dust your face with a mattifying powder. It will set any make-up in place while also taking down shine. Loose or pressed, it's your choice, just dust lightly over your face with a large powder brush. And be sure to take it off with make-up remover or cleanser at night !