Oily Skin: Your skincare routine simplified

Do you get frequent breakouts? Does your skin look shiny? Is your skin texture uneven? If yes, you probably have an oily skin type. But the good news? The right products put together with the right skincare routine can keep these issues at bay and give you a chance at a clear and healthy complexion. By following the best skin care for oily skin, you will see the difference in no time. Read on to know more…

What is an oily skin type?

Oily skin is, perhaps, the easiest to recognise. This skin type is caused by an overproduction of sebum – the oily substance released by our skin. In normal quantities, sebum moisturises and protects the skin, but an excess of this oil on our skin leads to acne, blemishes, blackheads and whiteheads. You can identify this skin type with its shiny appearance caused by sebum on the skin’s surface. Enlarged pores may also be a symptom. Genetics, environment, hormones, diet and age all play a role in causing this skin type.

Also Read: Essential Oils Your Skin Needs

Skincare routine steps

The best way to treat this skin type is by following a skincare routine for oily skin that targets these specific problems.

Cleanse skin twice a day

Start your routine by cleansing your skin first thing in the morning. Choose a cleanser that is gentle. No doubt, a harsh cleanser will strip your skin of any oil build-up, but it will also irritate the skin. The best cleanser for oily skin will clean from within the pores, removing grime and sebum clogged in them. Repeat this step before you go to bed to rid your skin of any dirt your skin is exposed to during the day.

Treat with serums

Serums have taken the beauty world by storm, and they can help acne-prone skin too. Some of the best skincare products for oily skin are serums with one of these active ingredients – retinol, hydroxy acids, Niacinamide and Vitamin C, each with their own benefits. It is always advised to introduce new skincare products slowly. So start off with a low concentration applied on alternate days to let your skin get used to it. If your skin tends to be overly sensitive, you should also patch-test it before starting.

Moisturise twice a day

Sebum is what naturally moisturises the skin and waterproofs it by retaining moisture. And dry skin tends to produce more sebum so it can keep itself moisturised. This is why moisturising regularly when you have oily skin is necessary. Well-moisturised skin will limit how much sebum is produced, controlling the overproduction that appears in oily skin. This also means finding lightweight, water-based moisturisers with hydrating ingredients is important with this skin type. You don’t want to clog your skin with thick, creamy formulas.

Protect from sun

Many people with oily skin don’t use sunscreen because they are usually greasy and oily. But the solution is to find gel-based or water-based sunscreens that are hypoallergenic and free of fragrance and parabens. They are the best sunscreens for oily skin! They do the job by protecting you from the sun while not clogging your pores.

Exfoliate weekly

The oily skin type sheds a lot more slowly than other skin types, which is what makes it more prone to blemishes and acne. The dead skin cells remain on the face, making the oiliness worse because it absorbs the sebum. This is where exfoliators come in. They shed the old skin cells and allow fresh, new skin to surface. The best exfoliators for oily skin will slough off the dead cells, remove impurities and unclog your pores, giving your skin a chance to breathe and renew itself. You can choose from store-bought exfoliators and face masks that contain specific ingredients for acne-prone skin or DIY them with kitchen ingredients that can work just as well.

Tips for oily skin

• Wash your bedding more often: Your pillowcase and bedsheets collect oil, dirt and debris from our bodies and environment, exposing your skin to these triggers.
• Read labels: Many makeup and beauty products contain ingredients that can stress our skin out, causing further oil build-up and breakouts. Understand the products that work for your skin and stick to them. Pro-tip: Choose water-based over oil-based products!
• Don’t over wash your face: Although it may be tempting, overwashing could backfire. Drying out your skin will only cause it to produce more oil to protect itself.
• Avoid touching your face: Since acne is caused by clogged pores, touching your face unnecessarily will introduce more oil and bacteria, resulting in more breakouts. So as far as possible, don’t touch your face.
• Keep your diet in check: Certain foods like oils, processed carbohydrates and sugar are known to worsen acne and inflammation. Replace these with skin-loving foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals, like fruits and green leafy vegetables.