When it comes to skincare, those with oily skin have it the toughest. The unique combination of sweat and sebum (oil produced naturally by the skin) means that their skin is constantly trying to produce the perfect balance between hydration and oiliness. Add in the stress of living with a layer of shine all day, not to mention the dreaded pimples, and it’s easy to see why those with oily skin need extra help in the skincare department.
Fortunately, controlling shine and preventing breakouts is far from impossible – all it takes is the right knowledge, attitude and skincare routine.
Firstly, it’s important to understand your skin’s needs. Oily skin is a type of combination skin, so it’s common to find your skin becoming dry or scaly in areas like the cheeks or around the hairline. This means that you need to use different products to hydrate dry areas and battle oiliness in other areas.
When selecting skincare products, make sure to check the label and only buy those that are specifically designed to reduce oiliness. If you’re in doubt, check out product reviews online and read descriptions that explain a product’s benefits for oily skin.
When selecting skincare products, make sure to check the label and only buy those that are specifically designed to reduce oiliness.
As a general rule, it’s important to avoid harsh products like those with alcohol, fragrances, and synthetic colors and dyes. Oily skin needs gentle products that can help keep it balanced without drying it out.
Next, it’s time to learn about the basics of skincare hygiene. Oily skin needs to be cleansed twice a day. Look for a cleanser that is designed to remove excess oil, dirt, and makeup while still leaving skin hydrated.
After cleansing, it’s important to apply toner. A toner is a liquid which helps to adjust the pH balance of the skin, remove any traces of makeup, and tighten the pores. Toners for oily skin should also contain anti-acne ingredients, such as salicylic acid, that help reduce inflammation and acne.
Exfoliation should also form part of your skincare routine. Exfoliating helps to slough off dead skin cells and reduce excess oil, unclogging pores and preventing breakouts. Look for an exfoliant that contains ingredients like glycolic acid, lactic acid, and fruit acids, which will help to keep pores clear while still leaving the skin hydrated.
Exfoliating helps to slough off dead skin cells and reduce excess oil, unclogging pores and preventing breakouts.
When it comes to moisturizing, less is more. Oily skin is already excessing producing oil, so it is important that you limit the amount of moisturizer you apply. Moisturizers specifically designed for oily skin are usually light-weight, oil-free and contain active ingredients to reduce sebum production and replenish moisture.
Oily skin is already excessing producing oil, so it is important that you limit the amount of moisturizer you apply.
Finally, the last step to maintain oil-free and balanced skin is to use sunscreen. As sun exposure can contribute to excessive sebum production, it’s important to wear sunscreen daily. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or greater, and reapply it throughout the day, as needed.
Controlling shine and preventing breakouts on oily skin is possible, but it takes some effort. Following a tailored skincare routine that takes into account your skin type is key. By using the right products, cleansing regularly, and taking the time to exfoliate, moisturize and protect, you’ll be able to achieve perfectly balanced and healthy-looking skin.
