Having oily skin can be a constant battle against excess sebum production, breakouts, and that frustrating shine. But fear not, for we are here to help you develop a comprehensive skincare routine tailored specifically for oily skin. By adopting the right products and techniques, you can maintain a healthy and radiant complexion while keeping the shine under control.
Let’s dive into the world of skincare and unveil the secrets to banishing the oily skin blues!
Understanding Oily Skin
The key to developing the perfect skincare routine for oily skin is to understand the nature of oily skin.
Dehydrated skin often causes excessive sebum production in an attempt to compensate for the lack of hydration in the skin. This is why dehydrated skin can easily be mistaken for oily skin. You will have an excess of sebum, but you will still lack the right and necessary amount of hydration for your skin.
It can feel counterintuitive to dry and hydrate oily skin but the key to managing oily skin ( and thereby preventing breakouts) is to maintain hydration in the skin by using hydrating ingredients in your skincare routine. This stops the skin needing to over compensate the ” dryness” by producing excess oil.
So basically if you have oily skin, the trick is to find ways to nourish and moisturize the skin.
Now, let’s jump into how we can achieve the perfect skincare routine for oily skin.
Step 1: Cleansing
A crucial first step in any skincare routine is proper cleansing. Opt for a gentle, oil-free cleanser specifically formulated for oily skin.
Look for ingredients like salicylic acid or tea tree oil, which help to unclog pores and control excess oil. Remember to cleanse your face twice a day, morning and evening, to remove dirt, makeup, and impurities.
Also if you wear makeup it is best to double cleanse- once with a gel cleanser and then with a cream or foam cleanser.
Micellar water is a great way to remove makeup before cleansing. Micelles attract dirt that is lodged in your pores and remove it, making it a great first step for makeup wearers with oily skin as it is very gentle.
A great option is CeraVe Foaming Cleanser with Niacinamide for Normal to Oily Skin 236ml
Step 2: Exfoliation
Regular exfoliation is essential to remove dead skin cells, prevent clogged pores, and improve the overall texture of your skin.
However, be gentle when exfoliating oily skin, as aggressive scrubbing can lead to irritation and increased oil production as a result of dryness.
Choose a chemical exfoliant with ingredients such as glycolic acid or lactic acid, as they penetrate the skin more effectively, providing a deeper cleanse without causing excessive dryness.
My go-to for oily skin is PAULA’S CHOICE SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA LIQUID EXFOLIANT
Step 3: Toning
Toners are excellent for oily skin as they help balance the skin’s pH level, minimize the appearance of pores, and control excess oil.
Look for toners containing witch hazel, tea tree oil, or niacinamide. These ingredients are known for their astringent and sebum-regulating properties.
Gently apply the toner to your face using a cotton pad or by patting it onto your skin with clean hands.
PAULA’S CHOICE SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA LIQUID EXFOLIANT
Step 4: Moisturizing
Contrary to popular belief, oily skin needs moisturization too. Using an oil-free, lightweight moisturizer is key to keeping your skin hydrated without adding unnecessary greasiness.
Look for products labeled as non-comedogenic, meaning they won’t clog your pores.
Ingredients like hyaluronic acid or gel-based moisturizers work wonders for oily skin, providing hydration while maintaining a matte finish.
The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
Step 5: Sun Protection
Never underestimate the power of sunscreen, regardless of your skin type. Oily skin is just as susceptible to sun damage as any other skin type. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and a lightweight, oil-free formulation. Look for sunscreens labeled as “non-comedogenic” or “matte finish” to avoid clogging pores or exacerbating shine.
Apply sunscreen generously and reapply every two hours when exposed to the sun.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Oil Control Fluid SPF50+
Step 6: Targeted Treatments
Incorporating targeted treatments into your routine can address specific concerns like acne, blackheads, or enlarged pores. Look for products containing ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or retinol. These active ingredients work to control sebum production, reduce inflammation, and promote skin cell turnover.
However, be cautious when using these treatments and introduce them gradually to avoid skin irritation and dryness.
Additional Tips:
- Avoid over-washing your face, as it can strip away natural oils, leading to increased oil production as a compensatory response.
- Use oil-absorbing sheets throughout the day to control excess shine without disturbing your makeup.
- Maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle, as what you put into your body can reflect on your skin. Consume a balanced diet, drink plenty of water, and get enough sleep.
- Keep your hands off your face to minimize the transfer of bacteria and oil.
- Never sleep in your makeup
