Are you unfortunate enough that when you get up in the morning, your face looks like you've been working out for the last eight hours? Many people can relate to looking shiny - always and everywhere.
And it's not like you haven't tried those annoying peeling masks, or some other fancy, expensive product, right? It's a struggle. The constant wiping, the greasy traces you leave on your phone after touching your face, the t-zone area - it can all get a bit old. And, let's face it, too much oil contributes to clogged pores, which means your face is more prone to acne.
You get it.
So, in order to effectively control oily skin, you first need to understand what things might be making your skin so shiny.
Next, we'll share our secret - the best beauty tips for oily skin including the best products. (Take Misumi's Clear Skin Duo Kit or Complete Clear 3-Step System, for example.)
What Causes Oily Skin?
Oily skin is the result of your sebaceous glands going into overdrive. These glands are located under the surface and are responsible for maintaining the natural glow of the skin, moisturizing it, protecting it from harsh environmental conditions, and keeping it healthy!
But why do your glands produce more oil than necessary? Well, there are a couple of reasons actually.
Genetics
Unfortunately, this one is something you have no control over - if your parents have oily skin, it's more likely you'll have oily skin as well. The way our body functions is determined by the genetic code that we inherit from our parents and grandparents. We get their strengths but also their weaknesses.
Hormonal Changes
You know - puberty, the menstrual cycle, menopause, etc. Hormones are another large contributing factor to oily skin, as well as acne, and they're pretty hard to control. The good news is that they're not predetermined like your genes are. There are some tips you can undertake to balance your hormones, including medical treatments.
And, of course, if you're going through hormonal changes, trying out some natural home remedies, as well as lifestyle and diet changes (like going dairy-free), can certainly help.
Stress
You know how you sweat when you're nervous, anxious, or stressed? Well, the pores on your face "sweat" as well. What we mean is - your sebaceous glands are starting to work overtime.
When the body is under stress, no matter the reason, your cortisol levels rise. Cortisol is a stress hormone that is released from the adrenal glands. It causes many reactions in our body, but the most relevant here is this: it stimulates your glands to enhance sebum production, and it increases inflammation.
Now, getting rid of stress is easier said than done, but we definitely advise you to make a conscious effort to keep yourself relaxed. The best tip for oily skin caused by stress is to start meditation or yoga. You can even opt for a spa treatment or just relax with calming music.
Weather and Environment
Humid climates and hot weather can stimulate sebum production, which, as we know, leads to an excess of oil on the skin. On the other hand, the cold can dry out the skin, which will make the oil glands want to compensate and trigger increased oil production. We're not saying you should move to another place, but consider taking measures to protect your skin.
Diet
There's still not enough research to back this up, but the anecdotal evidence is overwhelming - especially for dairy. Processed foods rich in refined sugar, saturated fats, and milk may have negative effects on your skin.
Dairy is bad for your skin because it's rich in hormones. Refined sugar and saturated fats because they increase blood sugar. When that happens, the body reacts by producing more insulin, which stimulates the glands to increase oil production, increasing your risk of oily skin and developing acne.
Over-Washing
This tip for oily skin might sound like an oxymoron because, yes, you should wash your face more frequently when dealing with oily skin.
But, if you overdo it, you won't just remove excess oil - you'll make your skin dry, which will trigger the oil glands to produce too much sebum, and after a day or two, you will have more oil on your skin. Invest in an oil-free gentle cleanser that will help you reduce oil production and keep your skin moist. Or, keep to warm water and a soft cloth.
You Might Be Using the Wrong Skincare Products
First, you need to make sure you're using the right cosmetic products for your specific skin type. There are many skincare products on the market, but how do you know what works? Well, listen to the professionals! Make sure the product you're using has been tested and approved by a board-certified dermatologist.
Opt for a gentle soap, a foaming face wash, or facial cleansers that are designed specifically to treat acne. Avoid any oily substance until you're positive it won't make your acne worse. At the same time, you want to avoid any harsh product that may cause dehydrated skin or other skin problems.
Secondly, don't use poor-quality makeup. This type of makeup is usually harsher, which can damage the skin and make the sebaceous glands produce more oil. Search for makeup that is labeled as either oil-free or non-comedogenic, as this will help keep your skin healthy.
Finally, moisturizing the skin is important even if you have an oily skin type. There are different types of moisturizers that can help your skin stay hydrated without making it greasy. So if you don't use an oil-free moisturizer already, consider adding one to your skincare routine.
Make sure to do a patch test before using any new products to avoid an allergic reaction.
Consequences of Oily Skin
It can be embarrassing when oily skin causes problems, but the real question is - is oily skin unhealthy? Well, technically, no, but it can clog pores and lead to unhealthy conditions like acne.
Excess oil production is not necessarily a bad thing - it can even have some benefits. Some experts say that oily and combination skin types age much more slowly, with fewer wrinkles and fine lines.
The problem occurs when excess oil clogs the pores and causes visible blackheads, whiteheads, or the worst of all - inflamed acne vulgaris. You may be able to ignore a few blackheads or pimples, but severe acne conditions are followed by irritation, itching, pain, lesioned skin, and swelling that can really shake you up psychologically.
At the end of the day, the best thing is to try and see what oily skin tips you can incorporate into your daily routine to prevent producing extra oil.
So What are the Best Oily Skin Tips?
Wash your Face, but Not too Frequently
Most importantly, don't use abrasive products that leave the skin too dry afterward. This might seem like a good thing at the beginning, but the dry skin will trigger your sebaceous glands and result in extra oil production. Sooner than later, you will be back where you started - maybe with even more oil than before.
Invest in a facial cleanser that's designed to help treat acne. Look for products that contain ingredients like lemon, witch hazel, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or benzoyl peroxide. A good cleanser for acne will reduce oil production, reduce inflammation, and soothe skin.
Alternatively, your best friends are warm water and a clean cloth to dry off.
Don’t Use Oil-Based Cosmetic Products and Make-Up
Instead, look for water-based products, and use compact facial powder rather than a liquid one. Find products labeled non-comedogenic that are less likely to clog pores.
Use Blotting Papers
Blotting papers are thin, small papers you can keep in your handbag at all times and use whenever you feel the need. Using blotting papers won't affect your oil glands, but they will soak up and remove excess oil. Preventing the oil from staying on your face for too long will keep you safe against dirt accumulation and acne development.
Protect Yourself from Harsh Environmental Conditions
In summer, always wear sunscreen and avoid being exposed directly to UV rays for too long. In winter, regularly moisturize the skin and wear a soft scarf and a hat. Don't let the wind and the cold damage the skin's surface.
Below, you have some of the best natural ingredients known to aid oily skin without making it too dry afterward. They are safe, easy to use, and cheap. They might already be in your fridge, so you can experiment a little and find the best solution for your skin.
Use Natural Remedies for Oily Skin
Honey
The first ingredient on this list is honey. Honey is part of so many guides to achieving flawless skin, and you'll always almost find it in the most effective facial masks. Honey adds moisture to the skin without adding oil.
This happens because honey is considered a natural humectant, meaning it will draw moisture from the skin without replacing it. Also, it has strong antibacterial and antiseptic abilities that benefit oily and acne-prone skin.
Lemons
Second on the list is the lemon, or, more accurately, freshly squeezed lemon juice. It's a tight battle between lemons and honey regarding which ingredient is most frequently used in skin care regimes.
These citrus fruits are great for all skin types, but they're proved to be quite effective in handling excess oil on the skin. Citric acid is a compound that can absorb excess oil. You can always mix honey and lemon juice to create the ultimate facial mask to soak up oil and moisturize the skin without making it dry.
Egg Whites
Egg whites are a great tool against oily skin because they can shrink enlarged pores and tighten the skin.
Almonds
The fatty acids in almonds, help in dissolving sebum, getting rid of oily skin, and preventing pimples. Because almond facial packs are very light in texture, the body absorbs them really well, which allows them to penetrate the skin deeply and remove any accumulated dirt. On top of that, almonds are rich in Vitamin A, another vitamin with amazing useful abilities for the skin.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is naturally anti-microbial, which means it'll kill the bacteria clogging your pores and soothe irritated skin. It's also known to soak up excess oils and leave the skin smooth and clear. You'll find lots of skin care products that use aloe vera.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are rich in Vitamin C, which can relieve inflammation. Additionally, they are capable of balancing your skin’s pH, limiting oil production, and tightening open pores. Add these tasty fruits to your diet to help get rid of oily skin.
Oatmeal
One of the best ingredients for oily skin is colloidal oats. They have powerful absorbent properties, which means the oil on your skin doesn’t stand a chance. Oatmeal is also very moisturizing so it tricks oily skin into producing less oil.
Jojoba Oil
Don't be a skeptic. It's already shown that applying some natural oils to oily skin can be beneficial. This is the case for jojoba oil. It's full of vitamins and minerals and has anti-inflammatory properties. Jojoba oil can balance the production of sebum by tricking the oil glands.
It also works with all skin types, from dry to sensitive skin.
Cucumbers
Cucumbers are hydrating, a natural astringent, and are helpful at tightening open pores. Rich in vitamins and antioxidants good for the skin, cucumbers can help you from the inside. They make a delicious salad but also a relaxing facial mask - use them in both situations.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple Cider Vinegar contains alpha hydroxyl acid, which helps to remove dead skin cells and sebum plugs, preventing clogged pores and spots and reducing acne breakouts.
Treat Oily Skin with Misumi's Remedies
Whether you suffer from mild acne, severe acne, or just get the occasional pimple from time to time, it's important you look after your skin. Misumi's Clear Skin Duo Kit is designed to tackle your problem, helping you achieve the glowing, healthy skin you've always wanted.
As a non-aggressive face wash, this anti-inflammatory kit will soothe irritated skin, control oils, clear dead skin cells, and kill acne-causing bacteria. It'll keep skin hydrated without looking greasy, ensuring you can go about your day looking - and feeling - good.
Try it now!
References
Oily Skin: A review of Treatment Options
How to Control Oily Skin
