The Best Spa Treatments for Oily Skin in Summer
- Malia English
- Jul 3
- 3 min read
By Spencer's SoHo | 4 min read
Oily skin produces more sebum in warm weather, which leads to enlarged pores, congestion, and more frequent breakouts between June and September. The most effective spa treatments for oily skin in summer combine deep cleansing, oil-balancing techniques, and lymphatic drainage to address the cause of excess oil — not just the surface symptoms.
Here's what works, and why.
Why Oily Skin Gets Worse in Summer
Heat increases sebaceous gland activity, meaning your skin produces more oil in summer than in winter regardless of your skincare routine. Humidity compounds this by slowing the evaporation of sweat and oil from the skin's surface, which leads to a thicker buildup layer throughout the day.
For guests with already oily or combination skin, this seasonal shift often means the products and routines that worked in spring stop performing adequately by July.
Most Effective Treatments for Oily Skin in Summer
Treatment | What It Does | Best For |
Detox Facial (45 or 60 min) | Clay masking, extractions, ultrasonic scrubbing, lymphatic massage | Heavy congestion, blackheads, active oiliness |
LED Therapy (Blue Light) | Targets oil-producing bacteria to reduce breakouts | Acne-prone or breakout-prone skin |
Ultrasonic Facial | Dislodges debris from pores using high-frequency vibration | Surface congestion and dull texture |
Lymphatic Facial Massage | Encourages drainage and reduces puffiness | Puffiness, fluid retention, post-congestion |
3-for-2 Package | Allows treatment rotation across 3 sessions at reduced cost | Guests who want to address multiple concerns over time |
The Detox Facial: The Most Complete Option for Oily Summer Skin
Of the available options, the Detox Facial is the most comprehensive treatment for oily skin in summer. In a single 60-minute session it combines enzyme cleansing, clay masking, ultrasonic extraction, manual extractions, LED therapy, lymphatic massage, and microcurrent — covering every mechanism of oil control in one appointment rather than requiring multiple separate treatments.
For guests dealing with moderate to heavy congestion, a monthly Detox Facial keeps pores clear between sessions in a way that at-home care alone typically can't sustain through the summer.
What to Do Between Spa Appointments
Cleanse with a gel or foam formula morning and night
Use a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer even if skin feels oily — dehydrated skin overproduces oil to compensate
Apply and reapply SPF every 2 hours outdoors
Use a clay mask 1–2 times per week to manage buildup between professional treatments
Avoid heavy, occlusive products that sit on top of the skin rather than absorbing
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best facial for oily skin?
A Detox Facial is generally the most effective option for oily skin, combining clay masking, extractions, and lymphatic drainage in one session.
How often should oily skin get a professional treatment?
Every 2 to 4 weeks during summer is ideal for managing excess oil production and preventing buildup from becoming congestion.
Does a facial make oily skin worse?
No. Some brief purging is normal after a first deep-cleansing facial, but consistent treatment generally reduces oiliness over time by keeping pores clear.
Is LED therapy good for oily skin?
Blue LED therapy specifically targets acne-causing bacteria and is a useful add-on for oily or breakout-prone skin types.
Can a package work for oily skin treatment?
Yes. Packages like our 3-for-2 let you book multiple Detox Facials at a reduced rate, which suits the more frequent treatment schedule oily skin needs in summer.