Having an oily skin type comes with its own set of challenges. There’s the sebum slick that shows up halfway through the morning, a heightened chance of dealing with pimples and breakouts, and pores that have no business showing off like that.
Understanding Oily Skin
Oily skin is one of the five main skin types, characterized by an excess of sebum oil that leaves skin looking greasy and shiny. Oily skin types may also be more prone to experiencing comedonal acne and other types of acne blemishes. On the other hand, the increased oils can help keep skin properly lubricated, resulting in fewer visible fine lines and wrinkles.
To help find your skin type, you can try observing how your skin behaves approximately 30 minutes after cleansing. If your skin looks and feels oily all over, you likely have oily skin. When in doubt, a board-certified dermatologist can also assess your skin and help you accurately identify your skin type.
pH Balanced Cleanser: The First Step
Use a pH-balanced cleanser to control oily skin. While washing oily skin is essential, over-cleansing can strip the skin of natural oils, triggering even more sebum production as the skin tries to compensate. A pH-balanced cleanser cleans without disrupting your skin barrier, helping to control oil production while keeping skin hydrated. Don’t wash more than twice a day, unless you’ve been sweating, and reach for a gel cleanser.
Retinol: The Anti-Aging Powerhouse
Retinoids are beloved for their anti-aging prowess, but they also come in clutch for oily and acne-prone skin types. Tretinoin or retinol can regulate the skin cells lining the pores and the surface to unclog them and prevent acne. Preventing acne and clogged pores is the first step in having clear, less oily skin. You can use an over-the-counter retinol or request a prescription retinoid from your dermatologist. Start off slowly, working up to daily usage as your skin adjusts.
Moisturizing: Yes, You Need It!
It’s tempting to gloss over moisturizer when your skin’s already producing enough oil as is, but this is a big mistake. Skipping hydration can lead to increased oil production. Using a gel-based or water-based moisturizer provides lightweight hydration without clogging pores, keeping oil production in check. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin that provide hydration without heaviness.
Charcoal or Clay Masks: A Weekly Treat
When things get really oily—or large pores become a bit too unruly—a charcoal or clay-based mask works like a charm. Applying once or twice a week can help zap excess oil, helping pores appear smaller and reducing breakouts. These masks can reduce shine and prevent clogged pores, helping your skin stay fresh and balanced without over-drying. Just make sure to not overdo it.
Niacinamide: The Gentle Skincare Hero
Also known as vitamin B3, niacinamide is a powerful but gentle ingredient that promises all sorts of benefits. It can help reduce oil production while also strengthening the skin barrier and reducing inflammation. It also helps with pore size and smooths skin texture. Use a serum with 5% niacinamide concentration in the morning or evening after cleansing.
Exfoliating with Enzymes: A Weekly Ritual
Exfoliating once or twice per week can help slough off dead skin cells that contribute to breakouts while also managing oily skin and large pores. Enzymes are a gentle, natural type of chemical exfoliant. You can find them in cleansers, masks, or even toners and tonics. This shouldn’t be a daily part of your regimen, but rather something you do occasionally to help with oiliness, large pores, and breakouts.
Don’t Write Off Oils Just Yet!
It may seem strange to apply oils on oily skin, but if your skin is overcompensating dryness and dehydration with an uptick in oil production, then topical oils can help. Skin balancing oils like jojoba oil and hemp seed oil help keep your skin from appearing oily by regulating oil production. They mimic your skin’s natural oil production, balancing your skin and easing acne.
Lightweight Sunscreen: A Must-Have
Heavy sunscreens aren’t exactly a joy to apply, but you don’t have to live that greasy life. Seek out lightweight options with a water or gel base that won’t weigh you down. You can even find products with a matte finish that helps further avoid adding extra shine. Look for sunscreens labeled “non-comedogenic,” which are designed to prevent clogged pores while protecting your skin from harmful UV rays.
Putting It All Together: A Skincare Routine for Oily Skin
Targeted skincare treatments can help minimize common oily skin concerns, such as visible pores, acne blemishes, or post-acne marks. For this step, oily skin can incorporate a lightweight, oil-free facial serum with ingredients such as retinol. After cleansing, toning, and applying targeted treatments, apply a non-comedogenic, oil-free moisturizer. The term “non-comedogenic” means that the moisturizer is formulated not to clog your pores, which is especially important for oily skin.
Help Protect Your Skin from UV Rays
The last step in an effective skincare routine for oily skin is sun protection. All skin types should wear sunscreen every morning, even when it’s cloudy or when staying indoors. Research shows that sun exposure can dry out your skin, which may cause it to produce more sebum. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration recommends using a sunscreen with broad-spectrum SPF 15 or higher daily.
By following these expert tips, you can say goodbye to large pores and mid-morning slick, and hello to a more balanced complexion. Remember, finding the right skincare products and knowing the best order to apply them can help control oily skin. Happy skincare journeying!
