Our skin naturally produces oil to protect itself from dirt and to stay hydrated. However, sometimes the quantities of sebum produced can be excessive and make the skin of the face shiny and unattractive. Some skin types produce greater amounts of sebum than others, but anyone can greatly benefit from the measures that allow us to have healthier skin. Read on to learn how to effectively remove oil from facial skin.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Quick Fixes
Step 1. Use sebum-absorbing tissues
They are smooth and highly absorbent and will be able to remove the oil without affecting the makeup. They are the fastest and most convenient solution for a face that tends to become greasy: simply remove a tissue from the package and use it to dab the forehead, nose and chin, and any other area that needs it. You can find sebum-absorbing tissues at any supermarket, but if you don't have one on hand, try one of these substitutes:
- Tissue. Use a plain white paper handkerchief, stay away from colored ones that could stain your face.
- Cigarette papers. The papers used to wrap the tobacco of cigarettes have a very similar consistency to that of absorbent tissues. Take advantage of this inexpensive tip.
- Toilet paper. If necessary, you can turn a tear of toilet paper into a sebum-absorbing tissue. Break it into small pieces and use it to pat the skin on your face.
Step 2. Use a face wash or make-up remover
They are a great remedy when you are on the go and want to remove excess sebum from the skin on your face. The wipes are wet and contain soap, only use them if you are not wearing makeup - otherwise the makeup will be removed unevenly. If possible, after using the wipes, wet your face with water to remove any residual soap.
Step 3. Blot your skin with toner
Soak a cotton ball with liquid toner and use it to remove excess sebum from the skin of the face. The toner removes the oil and closes the pores of the skin, cleaning it temporarily. You can buy a pack of tonic at the supermarket or perfumery, or you can make it with this simple DIY recipe:
- Pour 120 ml of apple cider vinegar into a jar.
- Add 240ml of filtered or distilled water.
- Shake the jar and apply your toner with a cotton ball. Use it whenever you want.
Step 4. Sprinkle some water on your face
Cold water will tighten the pores of the skin and your face will immediately appear fresher. Pat it dry with a soft, clean cloth. This solution is quick and effective in removing excess sebum from the face.
Method 2 of 3: Use the Oil Method
Step 1. Prepare an oil-based cleaner
The idea of removing oil with oil might sound bizarre, although it actually makes a lot of sense: one of the basic laws of science says that like dissolves like. Being your face means that using oil as a cleanser is the best way to remove build-up of sebum. Make your oily cleanser by mixing the following ingredients, then store them in a glass jar:
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2 parts castor oil
Remove Oil from Your Face Step 5Bullet1 - 1 part of extra virgin olive oil
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A few drops of your favorite essential oil, such as lavender or lemon
Remove Oil from Your Face Step 5Bullet3
Step 2. Rub your face skin with your cleanser
Saturate a cotton ball or pour a small amount of cleanser directly into the palm of your hand. Apply it to the skin of the face with gentle circular movements, concentrating on the oiliest areas.
Step 3. Take steam baths
Dampen a cloth with warm water. Apply it gently on the skin of the face, leave it in place for about a minute. Use it to remove excess oil, dirt, makeup, and dead skin cells that clog your pores.
Step 4. Experiment with different types of oil
Olive oil has the same pH as the skin, therefore it is a perfect cleanser. In any case, each type of skin is unique in the world, and not all respond to the same oil in the same way. Try the following options:
- Coconut oil. Many people use it as both a moisturizer and a cleanser.
- Tea tree oil. Add a few drops if your skin is prone to acne, tea tree oil is a natural antibiotic.
- Linseed oil. This light oil is perfect for all skin types.
Method 3 of 3: Prevent New Sebum Productions
Step 1. Wash your face less often
The oil produced naturally by the skin of the face is called sebum. It is a beneficial oil able to protect the skin while also keeping it flexible and healthy. Wiping it off too often will cause the pores to over-produce oil in order to restore the washed-out oil. This excess sebum will make the skin on your face appear oily. To prevent this from happening:
- Wash your face (with oil) only once a day. If between washes you need to remove excess sebum, use the special tissues instead of washing your face.
- Moisturizes the skin of the face after washing it. If it were to become dehydrated, the pores would produce more oil to correct the situation.
- Allow the skin to regain its natural balance and let a few days pass using your new routine.
Step 2. Remove your make-up every night
Before going to sleep, always remove all traces of makeup. It is important to cleanse the skin by removing makeup and dust accumulated during the day, just so your pores will not become clogged. There will be no need to repeat the wash in the morning.
Step 3. Do not use dehydrating products
Using soap or a facial cleanser in an attempt to remove the oil will cause more of the oil to be produced by the pores. Get rid of your addiction to soap-based facial cleansers, especially those that contain harmful chemicals like sodium laurel sulfate.
- It is better to wash your facial skin with plain water than using a facial cleanser. When your skin needs a deep clean, use the oily cleanser.
- If you're worried about acne, using tea tree oil and other natural methods instead of harsh chemical cleaners will only irritate your acne further.
Step 4. Use makeup that does not cause excessive sebum production
Choose your makeup products wisely to keep your face's oil production in check. Hiding behind pounds of makeup won't solve the problem, use it in moderation. Prefer a mattifying foundation and mineral make-up to favor the absorption of sebum and avoid the unsightly shiny effect.
