13 Best Soaps For Oily Skin, As Per A Makeup Artist (2024)

Because the secret to great skin is lowering sebum production without dehydrating it.

Reviewed by Hillary Clark, Esthetician Hillary Clark Hillary ClarkEsthetician facebook_iconlinkedin_iconinsta_icon
Written by Krati Darak, MBA, Certified Skin Care Coach Krati Darak MBA, Certified Skin Care Coach linkedin_icon Experience: 3 years
Edited by Medha Deb, Integrated MA Medha Deb Integrated MA linkedin_icon Experience: 5 years
Fact-checked by Shiboli Chakraborti, MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach Shiboli Chakraborti MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach linkedin_icon Experience: 4 years
Last Updated on
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Oily skin has its league of problems, be it greasy skin at all times or sebum-clogged pores. Fortunately, there is a wide range of products to tackle the woes of oily skin beauties. For example, soaps for oily skins are doing rounds in the market as they cleanse gently without drying the skin and adding moisture for suppleness.

Soaps that contain organic ingredients and don’t cause irritation are the best kind for oily skin. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, coconut oil, aloe vera, tea tree oil help in gentle skin cleansing. They also help exfoliate dead skin cells, eliminating sebum while thoroughly hydrating the skin. The best part is these non-greasy soaps don’t rip off the natural moisture from the skin or cause further flare-ups. However, choosing the best can be challenging with so many soaps available. Hence, we have the best oily soaps to help you take care of your oily skin. Check them out!

Top Picks
CHECK PRICE
Best Organic Formula:SheaMoisture African Black Soap
Price on Amazon
Best Non-Comedogenic Product:CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser Bar
Price on Amazon
Best Hypoallergenic Formula:Koji White Kojic Acid & Papaya Skin Brightening Soap
Price on Amazon
Best Vegan Option:O Naturals 6-Piece Black Bar Soap Collection
Price on Amazon
Best Exfoliating Soap:Revitale Advanced Salicylic Acid & Sulphur Scrub Treatment
Price on Amazon
Best For Skin Detox:Keika Naturals Charcoal Bar
Price on Amazon
Best For Daily Use:Bioré Pore Penetrating Charcoal Bar
Price on Amazon
Best For Sensitive Skin:Joesoef Anti-Acne Soap
Price on Amazon
Best Non-Toxic Formula:IHeart Nature Turmeric Body Bar
Price on Amazon
Best Dermatologist Tested:DermaHarmony Sulfur & Salicylic Acid Soap
Price on Amazon

Top 13 Best Soaps For Oily Skin In 2024

1. Best Organic Formula:SheaMoisture African Black Soap

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4.4
SheaMoisture African Black Soap Image: Sheamoisture

Formulated with organic shea butter for richness and moisture, this soothing soap is designed to cleanse, hydrate, and calm problematic skin. Also included are ingredients like aloe vera, oat, and rosemary which help to balance oily skin for a clearer complexion. Charcoal aids in detoxifying and gives this black soap for oily skin its distinctive black color. Tamarind extract acts as a natural astringent to help exfoliate the skin, while tea tree oil helps to soothe skin and prevent breakouts. Ethically traded and sustainably produced, this sulfate-free soap ensures skin that is thoroughly cleansed and deeply nourished. It is also considered a good soap for pimples and oily skin, according to the reviews online. Here is the clear demo of SheaMoisture African Black Soap.

Skin Type: Sensitive | Product Dimensions: 1 x 3.36 x 2.1 inches | Weight: 3.53 Ounces

Pros

  • Designed for problematic skin
  • Contains natural and organic ingredients
  • Free of parabens, phthalates, and sulfates
  • Free of mineral oil
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

  • Some might find the fragrance of this soap a bit overpowering.

protip_icon Pro Tip
Apply a moisturizer to damp skin after cleansing with African black soap as it helps to lock in the moisture.

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Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The product has more than 14,311 reviews claiming its efficacy.

2. Best Non-Comedogenic Product:CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser Bar

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4.6
CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser Bar Image: Cerave

Developed with dermatologists, this deep cleansing bar gently removes dirt, oil, and makeup without disrupting the skin’s natural barrier. This dermatologically-approved cleanser soap is formulated with three essential ceramides which restore and maintain skin’s moisture, and hyaluronic acid which provides deep hydration to the skin. The product also contains 5% moisturizing cream to release a steady stream of hydration throughout the day and night. Non-comedogenic and fragrance-free, this soap is suitable for acne-prone and sensitive skin and for those suffering from eczema.

Skin Type: Oily, Acne Prone, Sensitive, Dry | Product Dimensions: 4.88 x 3.75 x 2.5 inches | Weight: 14.88 Ounces.

Pros

  • Non-comedogenic and non-irritating
  • Suitable for use by those with eczema or sensitive skin conditions
  • Acne soap for oily skin
  • Fragrance-free
  • Free of parabens
  • Mattifying effect
  • Dermatologist-recommended

Cons

  • Might not be suitable for dry skin.

protip_icon Pro Tip
Remove all makeup with a makeup remover before using the cleanser.

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Why We Think It's Worth Buying

More than 10,054 Amazon users have vouched for this amazing product.

3. Best Hypoallergenic Formula:Koji White Kojic Acid & Papaya Skin Brightening Soap

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3.9
Koji White Kojic Acid & Papaya Skin Brightening Soap Image: Koji White

This aromatic cleansing bar is infused with kojic acid and papaya to help exfoliate skin for a brighter and younger-looking complexion. Formulated with only natural ingredients, this face soap for oily skin safely brightens the complexion while reducing the appearance of dark spots, freckles, and acne scars. This product also contains hyaluronic acid which deeply nourishes the skin, improves elasticity, and softens skin. Hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested, the oil-free formula is suitable for all skin types. Perform a patch test if you have sensitive skin to determine if it is suitable for your skin. Look at this video for a clear review of No. 7 Instant Illusion Wrinkle Filler based on the tester’s experience.

Skin Type: Acne Prone,Oily,Sensitive,All Skin Types | Product Dimensions: 2.2 x 4.7 x 1.2 inches | Weight: 3.2 Ounces

Pros

  • Contains natural ingredients
  • Free of parabens and SLS
  • Dermatologically-tested
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

  • Might not be suitable for sensitive skin.
worth-buy-icon

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

This product has received 9,362 reviews from customers on Amazon, indicating its popularity and reliability.

SheaMoisture African Black Soap
Best Organic Formula
CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser Bar
Best Non-Comedogenic Product
Koji White Kojic Acid & Papaya Skin Brightening Soap
Best Hypoallergenic Formula
Skin Type Sensitive Oily, Acne Prone, Sensitive, Dry Acne Prone,Oily,Sensitive,All Skin Types
Dimensions 1 x 3.36 x 2.1 inches 4.88 x 3.75 x 2.5 inches 2.2 x 4.7 x 1.2 inches
Weight 3.53 Ounces 14.88 Ounces. 3.2 Ounces
Rating
Reviews14,31110,0549,362
Price$3.97$6.79$9.95

4. Best Vegan Option:O Naturals 6-Piece Black Bar Soap Collection

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4.4

This luxury 6-piece soap bar set is presented in a recyclable gift box, and each soap bar has unique healing benefits. Each triple-milled soap bar is made of 100% natural and organic ingredients and contains sustainably sourced palm oil. The African black soap has high antioxidant content to combat free radicals, whereas the black coffee scrub bar contains 21 minerals to moisturize and nourish tired, damaged skin. The black tea and tea tree soap relieves dryness and irritation, and the Dead Sea mud and green clay soap draws excess oil and other toxins from the skin’s surface, making it an ideal soap for oily skin. Also included in the pack are a charcoal soap which has intensive, restorative powers for purifying, smoothing, and soothing, and Dead Sea mud and salt soap which exfoliates dead and damaged skin and improves circulation.

Skin Type: All, Oily, Combination, Dry, Normal | Product Dimensions: 3.7 x 2.2 x 0.9 inches | Weight: 1.5 Pounds

Pros

  • Contains all natural and organic ingredients
  • Cold-pressed and triple-milled
  • Contains sustainably sourced palm oil
  • Free of parabens and sulfates
  • Vegan and cruelty-free

Cons

  • Might not be suitable for dry skin.

5. Best Exfoliating Soap:Revitale Advanced Salicylic Acid & Sulphur Scrub Treatment

This 100% pure vegetarian soap contains almond and walnut shell particles that gently exfoliate the skin, deeply cleanse pores, and remove dirt, renewing the skin. It also soothes inflammation and redness on the skin and tightens the pores for smooth skin. As reviewers have pointed out in their reviews online, it also tones your complexion evenly. In addition, it has anti-bacterial properties.

Skin Type: Acne Prone

Pros

  • Improves skin tone
  • Smoothes the skin
  • Exfoliates the skin
  • 100% vegetarian soap
  • Gives clean, healthy skin

Cons

  • Strong smell

protip_icon Pro Tip
For best results, lather the soap and let it sit for a minute allowing the active ingredients to penetrate the skin.

6. Best For Skin Detox:Keika Naturals Charcoal Bar

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4.3

This nourishing soap is made of a blend of 5 essential oils to help rebalance and replenish sensitive skin. Also included are oil-absorbing activated charcoal and bentonite clay which work together to pull sebum and other impurities out of the pores and onto the surface of the skin to be washed away. Formulated without artificial fragrances, this skin balancing clay-based soap is scented with just enough therapeutic-grade tea tree and peppermint essential oil to benefit the skin without irritating the eyes. As per reviewer’s experience online, this oil-control charcoal soap can be used as a face soap, body wash, or shaving soap, and works great as a skin detox or a natural treatment for troubled, sensitive skin as it is free of harsh chemicals.

Skin Type: Acne Prone,Oily,Sensitive | Product Dimensions: 1 x 2.5 x 3.5 inches | Weight: 5 Ounces

Pros

  • Handmade soap
  • Contains natural ingredients
  • Contains no artificial fragrances
  • Non-GMO and chemical-free
  • 100% vegan soap
  • Has a light scent

Cons

  • Some might find that this soap dissolves a bit fast.

7. Best For Daily Use:Bioré Pore Penetrating Charcoal Bar

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4.6

Formulated with natural charcoal and jojoba beads, this deep cleansing bar works to draw out deep impurities and gently exfoliate the skin, making this an ideal soap for oily skin. Infused with peppermint oil, this unique nourishing formula thoroughly cleans the skin, leaving skin feeling fresh and smooth. Suitable for use up to twice daily, this charcoal bar can be used as both a face soap and a body wash for skin that is healthy, bright, and hydrated. This natural bar soap is non-comedogenic, making it ideal for those prone to acne and breakouts. However, we recommend patch testing if you have sensitive skin to ensure optimum safety. Check this video for a detailed review of the tester’s experience to have a clear understanding about the product.

Skin Type: Oily | Product Dimensions: 1.56 x 2.81 x 3.94 inches | Weight: 4.64 Ounces

Pros

  • Contains natural ingredients
  • Non-comedogenic formula
  • Designed for daily use
  • Suitable for all skin types

Cons

  • Might not be suitable for sensitive skin.

8. Best For Sensitive Skin:Joesoef Anti-Acne Soap

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4.4
JOESOEF SKIN CARE Anti-Acne Soap With Natural Volcanic Sulfur 10% Image: Joesoef Skin Care

Formulated, developed and validated by leading dermatologists, this anti-inflammatory soap contains 10% natural volcanic sulfur and 0.25% salicylic acid, making it ideal for those with skin prone to acne and breakouts. The micronized sulfur works to penetrate deep into the pores killing all bacteria and fungus on contact, reducing inflammation, and releasing trapped sebum, dirt, and oil to the surface. Salicylic acid gently removes dead skin cells for a complexion that is healthy and brighter, making this a suitable soap. This oil-absorbing soap also helps treat those with rosacea, tinea versicolor, body acne, dermatitis, fungus, and clogged pores.

Skin Type: Oily, Normal | Product Dimensions: 2 x 1.5 x 3.5 inches | Weight: 3.53 Ounces

Pros

  • Suitable for sensitive skin
  • Designed for daily use
  • Alcohol-free
  • Dermatologist-tested

Cons

  • Some might find the fragrance of this soap a bit overpowering.
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Why We Think It's Worth Buying

Almost 3,625 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.

9. Best Non-Toxic Formula:IHeart Nature Turmeric Body Bar

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4.2
iHeart Organic Turmeric Soap Bar Image: Iheart Nature

Made of natural, organic ingredients, this body bar contains turmeric powder and turmeric essential oil which brightens skin, clears pores, and reduces acne, scarring, and wrinkles, while minimizing the signs of aging. Clove essential oil rejuvenates skin, while antioxidant-rich cocoa butter moisturizes and smoothens skin. Rosemary extract and rosemary essential oil support healthy collagen and improve skin tone for skin that is fresh, healthy, and nourished. Handcrafted in small artisanal batches, this mattifying soap is ideal for daily use as a face soap and a body wash. Conduct a patch test if you have dry or irritated skin before using the product to ensure suitability.

Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, Normal | Product Dimensions: 2.19 x 1.69 x 3.63 inches | Weight: 5.92 Ounces

Pros

  • Contains organic ingredients
  • Handmade in small batches
  • Free of parabens, alcohols, sulfates, and petroleum
  • Free of animal fats, synthetic fragrances, and dyes
  • Non-GMO and non-toxic
  • Cruelty-free and vegan

Cons

  • Might not be suitable for dry skin and those with skin irritations.

10. Best Dermatologist Tested:DermaHarmony Sulfur & Salicylic Acid Soap

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4.2
DermaHarmony Sulfur & Salicylic Acid Soap Image: Dermaharmony

Formulated with 10% sulfur and 3% salicylic acid, this pore-minimizing soap is formulated especially for those with oily and sensitive skin. Designed for daily use, the dermatologically-tested soap works by purifying pores of oil, dirt, and grime. Salicylic acid gently exfoliates dead cells for skin that is nourished, hydrated, and rejuvenated. This soap can be used as a face soap and a body wash, and is ideal for those prone to acne, breakouts, and other common skin issues.

Skin Type: All | Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 3 x 1.87 x 0.75 inches; 3.7 Ounces

Pros

  • Designed for daily use
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Effective against rosacea and dermatitis
  • Dermatologist-tested

Cons

  • Some might find the sulfur smell of this product unpleasant.
worth-buy-icon

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

It has received 2,209 reviews on Amazon and is a popular choice among shoppers.

11. Best Moisturizing Formula:Grisi Sulfur Soap

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4.4

Designed for the treatment of acne, this sulfur soap helps clear up blemishes and pimples. It contains lanolin which provides deep moisturizing to the skin, leaving the skin soft, hydrated, and nourished. The antimicrobial and antibacterial properties of this product make it suitable to treat sensitive skin problems. Effective against flea bites, severe acne, flaky skin, and rosacea, this clarifying  soap helps skin feel squeaky clean without causing dryness, making it suitable for all skin types.

Skin Type: Oily | Product Dimensions: 1.9 x 2.7 x 4 inches | Weight: 4.8 Ounces

Pros

  • Antimicrobial and antibacterial
  • Suitable for sensitive skin
  • Designed for daily use
  • Effective against rosacea, dermatitis, and flea bites

Cons

  • Some might find the scent of this soap a bit unpleasant.

12. Best Anti-Acne:Makari Classic Clear Acnyl Sulfur Soap

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4.2
Makari Classic Clear Acnyl Sulfur Soap Image: Makari

The Makari Classic Clear Acnyl Sulfur Soap is an anti-acne soap that fights against all kinds of acne, including active pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. Perfect for blemish-prone skin, it offers you the best face cleansing and helps control excess sebum production on the skin. The bar’s particles penetrate deep into the skin and remove excess sebum while preventing acne formation. In addition, the results-driven formula of this soap gently removes all dirt, impurities, and dead skin cells to offer a fresh and clean look to your facial skin. You should use this sulfur soap 1-2 times a day for the best visible results.

Skin Type: Acne Prone,Oily | Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 3.7 x 3.7 x 1.6 inches; 5.6 Ounces

Pros

  • Brightens your skin
  • Offers deep cleansing
  • Designed for daily use
  • Travel-friendly
  • Clears blemishes

Cons

  • Overuse may cause moisture loss

13. Best Antibacterial Soap:Olivia Care Natural Olive Oil Soap

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4.5
Olivia Care Natural Olive Oil Soap Image: Olivia Care

Looking to achieve radiant skin? Try this soap. With a natural and refreshing fragrance, this non-drying soap is rich in vitamins and antioxidants that invigorates, brightens, and purifies the skin. Infused with pure olive oil, which provides deep and thorough cleansing, this antioxidant-rich product also has essential oils which enhance the skin’s moisture balance. Suitable for all skin types, this natural and herbal soap proven to deliver visible results protects the skin from drying out and is effective against eczema, psoriasis, and acne.

Skin Type: Acne Prone,Oily,Sensitive,All Skin Types | Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 4.25 x 2.8 x 1.46 inches; 8 Ounces

Pros

  • Contains organic and natural ingredients
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Free of parabens
  • Non-GMO
  • Vegan and cruelty-free

Cons

  • Some might find the scent of this soap too mild
*The prices provided in this article are based on the latest available information. However, they may vary due to changes in pricing by the seller and/or promotional offers.

Now that we have looked at our pick of the top 13 best soaps for oily skin in 2024, let us look at some things to consider when picking a soap best suited for your unique requirements.

What Are The Main Causes Of Oily Skin?

To put it simply, oily skin is caused by an overproduction of sebum from sebaceous glands. This sebum mixes with dead cells and gets stuck in your pores, causing acne and breakouts. This overproduction of sebum can be caused by a number of reasons, including genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. People tend to have oily, sensitive skin in hot, humid climates. Age can cause enlarged pores, which in turn produce more oil, leading to greasy skin. Using the wrong skin care products for your skin type can also cause the skin to get clogged and acne-prone. Oily skin will benefit from a bar soap made of ingredients like salicylic acid, aloe vera, and tea tree oil. 

How Do I Choose The Best Soaps For Oily Skin?

A quick look at the ingredient list will help you choose the best soap for oily skin. Pick a gentle, natural soap that does not dry out the skin. Ingredients like salicylic acid help to clear out clogged pores reducing the occurrence of acne. Citrus essential oils like aloe vera, lemon, tea tree, and lavender oil help balance skin oils and improve acne-prone skin. Pick a product that is labeled as non-comedogenic as it will not clog your pores, and always go for those with natural ingredients that will not irritate the skin.

Infographic: 6 Effective Ingredients In Soaps For Oily Skin

While considering soaps for your oily skin, there are certain things you should be aware of. Choosing soaps with the right kind of ingredients is essential because the wrong ones might cause irreparable damage to your skin. Check out the infographic below to learn about the key ingredients that go into effective formulations for oily or acne-prone skin.

6 Effective Ingredients In Soaps For Oily Skin (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

The Bottom Line

The maintenance of oily skin can be tricky. That is why you need to add the best soaps for oily skin in your beauty regimen. The SheaMoisture African Black Soap can help oily and problematic skin with pimples, while the CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser Bar is ideal for acne-prone and sensitive skin. If you are looking for a product that suits all skin types, try the Koji White Kojic Acid & Papaya Skin Brightening Soap. Hillary Clark, a medical esthetician says, “Oil breaks down oil, so look for oil in cleansers to gently dissolve oil without stripping and disrupting the lipid barrier which can kick oil production into overdrive.” Look for formulas that are enriched with ingredients like papaya, tamarind, and hyaluronic acid that cleanse the pore, remove the dirt, and have antibacterial properties to soothe the skin. However, better steer clear of soaps that have overpowering fragrances and may trigger other skin concerns.

Why Trust Stylecraze?

Krati Darak, the author of this article, has a deep interest in all things beauty, makeup, and skin care. She carefully researched several products keeping in mind her readers’ perspective to curate this list of the best soaps for oily. The buying guide helps you narrow down the best options on the market by keeping parameters like ingredients and dermatological testing in mind. The shortlisted soaps are gentle on your skin, non-comedogenic, and help eliminate excess sebum effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does face soap dry out the skin?

Like with any skin product, it is best to choose a face soap based on your skin type. Soaps designed specially for the face will generally not dry out the skin, and will instead hydrate and moisturize. If your skin tends to be dry, pick a face soap with hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, coconut oil, or lavender essential oil, all of which intensely moisturize and keep the skin healthy.

Does face soap help acne?

A good face wash for oily skin will help clear out pores and rid the skin of oil, dirt, makeup, and sweat, all of which cause breakouts and acne. Pick a face soap with non-comedogenic ingredients like salicylic acid, charcoal, and shea butter to help cleanse and exfoliate the skin while not drying it out.

Can face soap be used every day?

Face soaps can safely be used daily, both morning and night. Using more than twice a day might dry out the skin and is not advisable. Face soaps are an essential step in your skincare regime for skin that is healthy, fresh, and bright.

How can I treat oily skin?

If you have oily skin, it is recommended to wash your face twice daily. Use a lightweight toner and serum to refresh your skin. Gently moisturize your face with an oil-free cream and keep your skin nourished.

Is glycerin soap best for oily skin?

Yes, glycerin soap is great for oily skin. It keeps your skin hydrated without making it too greasy.


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Hillary Clark
Hillary ClarkMedical Esthetician
Hillary Clark is a third-generation beauty entrepreneur, celebrity makeup artist, and medical esthetician with 21 years of experience. Her stints as the youngest Beauty Director for Nordstrom and West Coast Beauty Editor for Sephora provided ample opportunities for her to collaborate with some of the most popular names in the beauty industry, such as Dr.

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Krati Darak
Krati DarakAssociate Commerce Editor
Krati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of experience in writing and editing for different niches.

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Medha Deb
Medha DebCommerce Editor
Medha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.

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Shiboli Chakraborti
Shiboli ChakrabortiCommerce Editor
Shiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.

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