Controlling Shine: 7 Oily Face Remedies
Oily skin is both a blessing and a curse. While it’ll take long before wrinkles to develop, overly active sebaceous glands can lead to loads of skin problems including clogged pores, blackheads, and acne. Managing oily skin takes a lot of effort and research and that’s why we’re here to help. Here are 7 oily face remedies that can help you temper that shine.
Wash your face strictly twice a day
If you have oily skin, then you might be tempted to wash your face more than twice in a day especially when the weather gets too hot. However, managing oily skin is all about balance; do it too little and the excess sebum will trap dirt and dead skin in your pores, do it too much and your skin will produce even more oil to compensate for your dried out skin.
So remember to wash your face only twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Ditch harsh and fragranced soaps that make your face feel too dry and too squeaky clean. Instead, use gentle cleansers that contain acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid and glycolic acid.
Exfoliate at least once a week
No, we’re not talking about physical exfoliants like walnut scrubs. Those types of products have been proven to be too harsh on the skin. Exfoliating acids are now the product of choice for exfoliation. Alpha-hydroxy acids or AHAs can lift off the build-up of dead cells on the skin’s surface while beta hydroxy acids or BHAs can deeply penetrate into the pores and help clear breakouts.
Just keep in mind to be cautious when working with other active ingredients in your routine. Mixing ingredients together may cause more harm than good to your skin.
Moisturize daily
Many individuals with oily skin tend to skip moisturizer. After all, applying moisture is the last thing you want to do if you have perpetually oily skin. But what they fail to realize is that moisturizers can help with the overall health, texture, and appearance of the skin. Some of them even contain antioxidants and anti-pollutants for an extra-protective barrier. Consider using gel-type moisturizers that are oil-free, lightweight, and non-comedogenic.
Treat your skin to a relaxing mask
Missing your monthly facials at the derma? Now, you can do it at home with these oily face remedies. For best results, use it a few times a week to not upset your skin’s natural oil balance.
-
Clay
Minerals like smectite and bentonite do a great job of absorbing oil buildup, reducing skin shininess, and decreasing sebum levels without irritating the skin.
-
Charcoal
Activated charcoal is an all-natural ingredient that can draw out any impurities that are stuck in the pores. Even though it’s known for its heavy-duty cleansing power, charcoal is incredibly gentle on the skin.
-
Honey
If you have honey in your pantry, try it ASAP! Raw, natural honey has antibacterial and antiseptic qualities. A 10-minute honey face mask may help get rid of extra bacteria and oil while keeping the skin soft.
-
Oatmeal
While this may sound weird, the grains in oatmeal can help absorb oil and gently exfoliate without the usual risk of drying out the skin. Oatmeal is also anti-inflammatory so it could soothe irritated skin. Simply make a normal bowl of oatmeal, slather it on your face and let it sit for 20 minutes. Then wash off with lukewarm water and apply your favorite moisturizer to seal in those oat-y benefits.
Minerals like smectite and bentonite do a great job of absorbing oil buildup, reducing skin shininess, and decreasing sebum levels without irritating the skin.
A mattifying primer can be handy
Trust us, an oil-free mattifying primer makes all the difference. Not only does it make makeup application easier, but it can also minimize the appearance of large pores and fine lines while evening out the skin tone. And you don’t even have to put foundation over it! Some makeup artists recommend putting it as is for that effortless shine-free look.
Use blotting papers throughout the day
If you have oily skin, then you most likely have blotting papers on hand. This tool is specially designed to pull oil from the skin. While it won’t treat or stop sebum production, it most definitely can lift excess oil from the skin to make it appear less shiny. The best thing about it is that they can be used over makeup, so it won’t disrupt any foundation or powder you’ve applied on the skin. Just dab away to quickly blot the grease.
Over-the-Counter Acne Pills
With regular intake, acne pills like Lactezin that contain lactoferrin, vitamin E and zinc to help regulate sebum production and improve skin appearance. Aside from that, Lactezin can also help reduce inflammation and enhance the body’s natural defenses against bacteria.
Lactoferrin + d-Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate + Zinc is the generic name of Lactezin. If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.
Want more oily face remedies? Here the ultimate guide to managing oily skin.
ASC Ref. No. U041P042321LS
SOURCES:
