The Facts About Oily Skin Care

To better understand how to care for your oily skin, it is important to understand the cause behind it.

What causes oily skin?

Basically, oily skin is the result of an excessive production of sebum. Sebum is a natural substance produced by the skin. When your skin manufactures an excess of sebum it can lead to clogged pores, an excess of dead skin cells and the formation of acne. If you want to look your best it’s important to develop a great oily skin care routine.

Developing a great oily skin care routine

Cleansing

The first step in any skin care routine is cleansing. This is especially important if you have oily skin. It is important to remember that you do not want to remove all the sebum or oil from you skin as it is produced to protect and keep your skin supple and help retain the elasticity.

Oily skin care starts with the use of the correct cleanser for your skin. It should be one that is balanced to clean the excess oil but not dry out your skin. Cleanser that contain salicylic acid or beta-hydroxy will work by slowing down oil production. The higher percentage of beta-hydroxy, the less oil you skin will produce.

It is usually best to start out with a lower percentage and increase as needed for the amount of oil in your skin. Cleansing should be done at least twice a day, more if you are in hot and humid conditions or after exercise and sweating.

Most oily skin care products are oil-free but to be sure make sure you check the product ingredients listed on the label before you buy. Also beware of products labeled ‘suitable for all skin types‘ as they may not really be suitable for oily skin. If your skin is less oily, product developed for all skin types may work well for you but for extremely oily skin, products specifically formulated to reduce oil production will give you a better result.

Toning

Toning is the next step in an effective oily skin care routine. For extremely oily skin, try one that is alcohol based. Start by toning once a week and increase a necessary as excessive toning could over dry your skin.

Exfoliating

Exfoliating is an essential step in any skin care routine. You should exfoliate at least once a week with a product specifically formulated for oily skin. This process will help remove dead skin cells to keep your pores clear and your face smooth and soft.

When exfoliating, use gently pressure to avoid tearing or stretching the surface of your face and neck. You can also use a clay mask once a week to further help in you oily skin care routine.

Moisturizing

The next step in oily skin care is moisturizing. Even with oily skin this is an important step, as a light moisturizer will protect your skin from harsh environmental elements. Again, check the ingredients label to ensure it is an oil-free, wax free and lipid free product designed for oily skin. You should also check that it contains a sunscreen.

The fact that there are so many quality skin care products on the market today gives evidence that everyone’s skin is different. Different skin types need different attention so it may take trying a few different oily skin care products before you find the one that is right for you.

If you have exceptionally oily skin and cannot find a product that works for you, it may be time to visit you dermatologist. He could prescribe stronger medications such as vitamin A creams, sulphur creams, etc., that are not available without a prescription.