How to Manage Oily Skin
Struggling with a “shine” that never seems to go away and pimples that come way too often? These are just some of the struggles that come with having oily skin.
Oily skin and combination skin
If you deal with constant shine and regular breakouts, you may have an oily skin type or combination skin type.
- Oily skin type:
Face feels and looks shiny and moist, especially during the middle of the day. Your pores tend to be clogged and you are prone to blackheads, whiteheads and pimples.
- Combination skin type:
Your chin, nose and forehead are oily and more prone to acne. However, your temples, cheeks and eye area feel dry. Your skin also changes depending on the weather—it can either be really dry or really oily.
What causes oily skin?
Our bodies produce oil (sebum) to keep our skin soft and supple, but this can be a problem if it produces too little or too much. Excess oil production can cause oiliness, which can eventually lead to breakouts.
Hormones and genetics are the main factors to blame for the excess skin oil production. During puberty and other life events, fluctuating hormones can cause an increase in androgen levels, which then leads to increased oil production.
How to manage oily skin
For some, oily skin ends with puberty, but that is not always the case. Fortunately, there are ways to keep the oiliness and shine at bay.
- Use oil-free sunscreen.
Daily sun protection is important, no matter what your skin type is. If you have oily skin, choose a product labeled oil-free to avoid clogging your pores.
- Get enough sleep.
Sleep deprivation can cause a lot of health problems, including an increase in oil production and other related skin problems. Try to develop good sleeping habits to let your skin rest and recover.
- Moisturize.
Many people think that if you have oily skin, you don’t need to use moisturizer. But avoiding moisturizer may actually dry out your skin and cause your glands to produce more sebum to make up for it. Choose oil-free, non-comedic moisturizers, especially if you are acne prone.
- Maintain a good cleansing routine.
Use a gentle cleanser once in the morning and once at night before going to bed. Avoid washing more than twice a day as this can dry out your skin and cause it to produce more oil.
Results are based on clinical studies and may vary depending on the individual. There is no guarantee of specific results. Please see full disclaimer: Disclaimer
SOURCES:
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/11/071109194053.htm
https://www.crutchfielddermatology.com/news/pdf/webmd_oily_skin_solutions.pdf
