The skin becomes oily when the sebaceous glands start producing an excessive amount of sebum. This is a natural process that you cannot interrupt, but you can take steps to control it. Oily skin can be uncomfortable and unsightly, but by following a good skincare routine and gentle approaches, the problem can be solved.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Keep the Face Clean
Step 1. Wash your face twice a day
To manage oily skin, the most important thing to do is to ensure a good cleansing and to respect a routine of care; gently wash your face twice a day, in the morning and in the evening, with warm water and soap or use a specific cleanser without surfactants. Initially, use a mild product; those that are too aggressive can actually increase sebum production.
- If a regular cleaner doesn't help, consider using one that contains benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or beta hydroxy acid.
- Start with a benzoyl peroxide product; this chemical is used specifically to treat mild or moderate forms of acne.
- A chemical like this can cause some side effects, such as dryness, redness and scaling, but these often subside after the first month of application.
- You will probably have to try several products to see which one is most effective for your specific case.
- Use your hands to wash your face and avoid a towel or vegetable sponge; when finished, pat your face dry - do not rub it, otherwise it will irritate the skin.
Step 2. Use oil-free cosmetics
If you have oily skin, it is important to avoid products that can aggravate the situation. Read carefully the label of the makeups you buy and always opt for those that say "oil-free" or "water-based". There is no firm evidence regarding the effects of cosmetics on sebum production, but heavy make-up can still clog pores.
If you can do without it, try to avoid products like foundation; wear as little make-up as possible (for example, use only mascara and lipstick), to avoid clogging the pores
Step 3. Use moisturizing products selectively
Often people with oily skin tend to avoid applying moisturizers, thinking that there is no need to further lubricate the skin, but this is a misconception. This type of skin also needs proper hydration - obviously avoiding emollients that contain oils, as well as all other comedogenic products. However, oil-free moisturizers can help rebalance the skin.
- Apply different amounts of cream, based on the level of oiliness of the different parts of the face.
- Choose products carefully and look for "oil-free" and "non-comedogenic" ones. Look for moisturizers designed specifically for those with oily skin. Some brands, such as Clinique, offer different product lines for different skin types, including oily skin.
- Avoid all emollients that contain lanolin, petroleum jelly, or isopropyl myristate.
- Do an online search to read reviews and get ideas; you can also consider a gel product, which has a different texture than lotions.
Step 4. Don't wash your face too often
If you have oily skin, it can be tempting to wash it throughout the day to get rid of the sebum that has built up. Resist this temptation and make sure you only wash it in the morning and in the evening; if you overdo it, you can dry out the skin and cause irritation.
- At most, you can wash it once more during the day if it is particularly greasy.
- If you've been sweating, you can wash it more than twice a day.
Step 5. Be aware of when you touch the face
Although oily skin is mainly due to a genetic factor and the sebum is produced by the layer beneath the epidermis, it is important to be careful what it comes into contact with. If you have greasy hair that falls on your face, some of the sebum transfers to the skin.
- Also, if you have dirty hands and touch your face, you can spread the oil to other areas.
- Keep your hair and hands clean and away from your face.
Method 2 of 3: Coping with Excess Sebum
Step 1. Try on face masks
Clay and face masks are effective for absorbing oil, but they can also be dangerous if you apply them too often, as they can cause dryness and irritation. Keep this in mind when you decide to have one and try to focus on those areas of the face that are particularly oily. Don't use clay or masks too often, but only before some special occasion, like a party or an important presentation at work.
- Look for masks specifically formulated for oily skin.
- You will need to try several types before figuring out which one works best for you.
Step 2. Use the sebum-absorbing wipes
If your skin gets oily during the day, it can be a lot of discomfort, but if you wash it constantly, it will probably only aggravate the problem. However, you can use simple wipes that absorb excess oil from the face. This is a convenient and practical solution to get rid of the shiny look due to grease, which you can use discreetly and quickly, no matter where you are or what you do.
- There are several types of sebum-absorbing wipes on the market that help eliminate the shine during the day.
- Alternatively, you can use a tissue or toilet paper.
- Make sure you are gentle on the skin and don't rub it.
Step 3. Consider using a mild astringent
Astringent toner is a product often used in your skincare routine, but you need to be careful which one you choose, as some can dry out the skin or are too aggressive. Drying the skin with one of these products is certainly not the right solution to solve the greasiness problem and would only aggravate the situation. If you want to use a toner, make sure it is gentle, alcohol-free and oil-free.
- Apply it only to the most oily areas of skin.
- If you notice dry patches forming, discontinue use immediately.
- Remember that most people have combination skin; you must therefore use different approaches, based on the different characteristics of the areas of the face.
Step 4. See a doctor
If you continue to adhere to a careful skincare routine but the sebum does not reduce, make an appointment with your family doctor or dermatologist. he is able to recommend other treatments that you can follow and prescribe some medications.
- Therapy should be personalized and specific based on the severity and type of skin problem, as well as considering product tolerance and other factors. Your doctor can recommend a specific and "tailored" routine for your skin type.
- Remember that sebum production is completely natural and normal.
- If the situation is very uncomfortable for you, ask a professional for help.
Method 3 of 3: Taking Care of Your Skin
Step 1. Identify the cause
Oily skin is due to excessive sebum production that begins to manifest during puberty in both sexes. The amount of sebum secreted varies from person to person, but for some it may become excessive, making the skin shiny and greasy.
- After puberty is over, sebum production usually decreases, but oily skin problems can continue into adulthood.
- The oiliness is often aggravated by the humid and hot climate.
- It can create discomfort, embarrassment, and individuals with oily skin tend to suffer more from acne.
Step 2. Reduce Stress
In the presence of oily skin and acne, the high levels of stress can aggravate the problem. Adopt a healthy lifestyle and look for ways to relax. To calm down at a given moment, try taking deep breaths, some gentle yoga, or meditating.
- Going out for a walk can help clear your mind and at the same time allow you to do some physical activity.
- Include exercise as part of your daily routine to help you "switch off".
Step 3. Eat a healthy diet
It's a misconception that fatty foods are directly related to oily skin and acne, but it's important to eat right to promote overall health and well-being. Some foods, including those high in carbohydrates such as bread, can cause acne. The oiliness of the skin does not depend on what you eat, but if you work in a kitchen, be aware that the oil you use can stick to the skin and clog pores.
Step 4. Protect your skin from the sun
People with oily skin may have a hard time applying thick sunscreen, as the very viscous liquid can add extra greasiness to the skin and block pores. However, it is a fundamental step to protect the epidermis from sun damage. When buying the cream, make sure it is "oil free" and that it is made specifically for people with oily skin.
- Sun gel products tend to clog pores less than lotions and creams.
- Choose a product with a broad spectrum coverage and that has a protection factor of at least 30; also check that it is water resistant. Apply it at least 15 minutes before going out in the sun and put it on every day.
