Oily Skin

SKINCARE FOR OILY SKIN

If you’ve noticed your face can go from a subtle glow to super shiny in record time, the chances are you’re experiencing oily skin. Here’s how to manage it.

WHAT IS OILY SKIN AND WHAT CAUSES IT?

It’s no secret that our skin needs (and loves) a little oil, especially for a glistening glow. But there is a fine line between delightfully dewy and over-oily. The difference all comes down to our sebaceous glands. These tiny organs are responsible for producing and secreting sebum (the skin's natural oil) to keep it protected and moisturised. However, sometimes they overdo it, leaving skin excessively shiny and prone to breakouts.

Stress, the wrong skincare and humid conditions can all induce oily skin, but it can also come down to genetics and hormones. Increased oil flow can also make pores appear larger, and prompt makeup to disappear earlier in the day.

KEY INGREDIENTS TO REDUCE OILY SKIN

Exfoliating with an alpha hydroxy acid-based product will deep clean the pores and regulate sebum production, but avoid using anything too harsh. Lactic acid, part of the AHA family, is ideal as it will help to boost skin's natural moisture levels.

Niacinamide (a Vitamin B3 derivative) is another active ingredient to put on your list, as it is proven to reduce sebum production. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties can also help curb breakouts associated with excess oil, and its ability to protect the outermost layer of skin keeps natural moisture in, but nasty environmental elements out.

HOW TO TREAT AND AVOID OILY SKIN

Firstly, do not ditch the moisturiser. It’s often the first instinct for people dealing with oily skin, but skin can be dehydrated and oily at the same time. Cutting out moisturiser will only send the sebaceous glands into overdrive as they try to make up for the lack of moisture. Instead of removing moisturiser from your routine, just review the ingredients to ensure it’s not too rich or heavy. Exfoliating is also essential for managing oily skin, but be careful not to overdo it. Two times a week is recommended.

Use a gentle foaming cleanser morning, night and after exercise and stick to using oil-free makeup. Never sleep in your makeup as it’ll clog the pores turning excess oil into excess breakouts. Avoid touching your face throughout the day for the same reason, as your hands will spread dirt and bacteria and can even aggravate oil production.