Some people find oily skin to be one of the toughest and the most painful amongst all skin types. But knowing its reasons and how to treat it with the appropriate skincare products makes a huge difference. This blog aims to provide everything one needs to know about oily skin right from what makes the skin oily to an understanding of the oily skin care regimen and how best to go about choosing and using products which will help tame excess oil.
What are some of the factors behind oily skin?
Skin becomes oily when the sebaceous glands in the skin generate an excessive amount of sebum (oil). Sebum is oily meibum that protects the skin and prevents dryness; nevertheless, its excessive quantity can trigger blocked pores, rashes and shiny skin. Here is a list of some of the common causes of oily skin:
- Inherited traits
The major contributing factor for oily skin is probably genetic makeup. In the event that one or both of your parents have oily skin, it is likely that you will also have oily skin. This means that your sebaceous glands are more active than the average person, therefore more oil is produced.
- Changes In Body Hormones
Especially during the periods of puberty, in pregnancy, or in menstrual cycles are also factors that increase the oil production from sebaceous glands which is known as seborrhea. The rising levels of androgens (the hormones responsible for secretion of oil) stimulated the sebaceous glands to secret more oil.
- Climate and Environment
Hot and humid weather can exacerbate oily skin. People living in tropical or warm climates tend to experience more oiliness compared to those in cooler regions. In hot conditions, the skin works harder to protect itself, often producing more oil.
- Using the Wrong Skincare Products
Surprisingly, using products that aren’t suitable for your skin type can make oily skin worse. Overly harsh cleansers or alcohol-based toners can strip the skin of its natural oils, prompting it to produce even more oil to compensate.
- Diet and Lifestyle
Your diet can also affect your skin. Foods high in sugar, dairy, and refined carbs can contribute to excess sebum production. Stress, lack of sleep, and not drinking enough water can also affect your skin’s oil levels.
How to Manage Oily Skin
The good news is that although you cannot change your skin type, you have ways and means of handling an oily skin type provided you have the right routine and skincare products. There is a very simple way of fighting excess oil and at the same time maintaining the health of the skin.
Step 1: Cleanse Thoroughly
Cleansing is the keystone step in any oily skin regimen. Cleansing should be done properly to eliminate any extra oil, dirt, and impurities on the skin surfaces without ‘missing’ any skin. Go for a non-comedogenic, oil-free, foaming or gel cleanser that is made for oily skin and does not leave it feeling taut and dry.
Step 2: Balancing Toner
Toners are considered an optional stage during the application of the skincare products but can actually be useful for oily skin by restoring the balance of grease. Preferably, salicylic acid, witch hazel or niacinamide toners that help blot out greasiness, tighten enlarged pores, and cool sensitive skin down.
Step 3: Exfoliate Regularly
Exfoliation facilitates the unclogging of pores wherein dead skin that may cause a breakout is shed off. In the case of oily skin, chemical exfoliation works more effectively with salicylic or glycolic acid. These exfoliants have the ability to compress into the skin and absorb excess oil from within while unblocking the pores without irritation.
Step 4: Moisturize
People often think that oily skin does not require the allocation of any moisture. Such a notion is quite wrong and skipping moisturizer will only aggravate the oily skin, as the skin may produce more oil to make up for the lack of hydration. Opt for an oil-free, lightweight, and non-comedogenic moisturizer.
Step 5: Don’t Forget Sunscreen
Sunscreen is a must in any skincare routine, even for oily skin. However, finding a sunscreen that doesn’t feel greasy can be a challenge. Look for oil-free, mattifying sunscreens that offer broad-spectrum protection and won’t contribute to shine.
Tips for Managing Oily Skin
In addition to your skincare routine, a few lifestyle changes can help in managing oily skin effectively:
- Blot Away Excess Oil
Keep blotting papers handy to absorb excess oil throughout the day without disturbing your makeup. Blotting papers are a great tool to control shine, especially during hot and humid days.
- Avoid Overwashing
While it may be tempting to wash your face multiple times a day to get rid of excess oil, overwashing can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to even more oil production. Stick to cleansing twice a day—once in the morning and once at night.
- Hydrate and Maintain a Balanced Diet
Staying hydrated is crucial for all skin types, including oily skin. Drinking enough water helps maintain the skin’s balance. Additionally, a healthy diet rich in vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help control oil production.
- Choose Makeup Wisely
Opt for oil-free, mattifying makeup products that won’t clog your pores. Powder-based foundations and oil-free primers can help manage shine throughout the day.
Best Ingredients to Look For in Oily Skin Products
When shopping for skincare products, look for the following ingredients that can help control oil and keep your skin looking its best:
- Salicylic Acid: A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that helps exfoliate the skin and unclog pores, reducing oil and preventing breakouts.
- Niacinamide: Also known as vitamin B3, niacinamide helps regulate oil production, reduce redness, and improve skin texture.
- Hyaluronic Acid: This ingredient hydrates the skin without adding excess oil, making it a great choice for oily skin types.
- Witch Hazel: A natural astringent that helps tighten pores and reduce oil production.
- Clay: Clay-based masks (like kaolin or bentonite) are great for drawing out excess oil and purifying the skin.
Final Thoughts
While managing oily skin may seem like a challenge, the right skincare routine and products can help keep excess shine and breakouts under control. By understanding the causes of oily skin and selecting the best products for your skin type, you can maintain a healthy, balanced complexion. Don’t forget, that consistency is key—stick with your oily skin routine, and over time, you’ll notice a more balanced and clear complexion.
When in doubt, consult a dermatologist to customize a skincare plan that works specifically for your skin’s needs.
