A Complete Guide to Oily Skin and How to Manage It
Have you been experiencing greasy skin and unnatural skin brightness for a long time? If so, you have an oily skin type, which causes enlarged pores and excessive sebum (natural oil) production.
Oily skin is a common skin type, especially visible during adolescence. It is responsible for acne breakouts and various other skin problems. Further, oily skin can also cause white and yellow bumps, cysts, nodules (tiny bumps visible beneath the skin), and several other skin problems.
If you are someone with an oily skin type, consider following this guide to know about the causes and ways to control oily skin, and many other factors regarding the same.
What Is Oily Skin?
Oily skin, as the term suggests, refers to a greasy and shiny appearance of the skin. It often causes enlarged pores, leading to excessive sebum production. Apart from causing acne breakouts, oily skin is also known to be responsible for whiteheads, blackheads, seborrheic dermatitis, and several other skin problems.
The sebaceous glands, which are found in the root of the hair follicles, produce excessive sebum from the dead skin cells. As a result, they secrete the oil into the lipid layer of the skin.
Causes of Oily Skin
A wide range of factors is responsible for oily skin. Those include: genetics, hormonal changes, lack of sleep, skincare practices, and many more. In this section, we are about to discuss various causes of oily skin to manage it in a better way.
1. Genetics
It might not be a well-conceived notion, but genetics is one of the most common reasons for oily skin. According to some researchers, sebum production is directly linked to genetics. However, it is not the only factor responsible for this skin type.
2. Following a Glycemic Diet
Most people prefer to follow a high-glycemic diet, containing a significant amount of sugar and carbohydrates. Actually, individuals following a glycemic diet can experience significant hormone activity, including the sudden spike of insulin and IGF-1. Consequently, it instigates sebum production. So, it is advisable to avoid foods that are considered high glycemic, such as white rice, potatoes, sugar, multiple snacks, and many more.
3. Lack of Proper Sleep
Sleep is one of the most essential factors, which is responsible for our overall health. A lack of sleep often impacts our health and skin negatively, causing multiple problems. Some of them include: under-eye bags and excessive oil production. According to a study conducted in South Korea, people who had low sleeping time experienced more oil production. On the other hand, people who have enough sleep regularly experience low oil production.
Ingredients to Manage Oily Skin
When it comes to oily skin management, you need to look for a few key ingredients to take care of your skin. Those are:
1. Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid refers to a beta-hydroxy acid that can penetrate deep into the skin and exfoliate. As a result, it can clear the extra oil and enlarged pores, further eliminating the risk of acne breakouts.
2. Hyaluronic Acid
Oily skin needs hydration, making hyaluronic acid an effective ingredient for oily skin. It helps to hydrate the skin without adding extra oil.
3. Niacinamide
Popularly known as vitamin B3, niacinamide makes a huge contribution to reducing excessive oil production. Additionally, it can calm inflammation.
4. Clay
Clay masks, such as bentonite and kaolin, are considered to be an effective ingredient for those having oily skin. They can absorb the extra oil and prevent clogged pores.
Treatment for Oily Skin
If greasy and clammy skin has been affecting you, you should consider looking for a healthy skincare routine for oily skin. A few changes in the skincare routine and a healthy lifestyle can positively impact your skin, further solving various skin-related issues. So, here are some common and simple skin care tips to help your skin stay hydrated:
1. Wash off Your Face with Lukewarm Water
If you are accustomed to using hot water to wash your face, it is advisable to change this practice as it can dehydrate the skin. Hot water can make the skin dry, leading to more oil production to replace the dryness. So, consider using lukewarm water to wash your face, and be consistent with this.
2. Follow Gentle Scrubbing Formula
As an exfoliant, you can consider applying a face scrub suitable for your skin. Select a face scrub to apply to your face and gently massage the same in a circular motion. It will help to remove the accumulated oil, dirt, and grime from your skin.
3. Moisturize Your Skin
One of the best ways to manage oily skin is to moisturize it using a suitable cream. It is advisable to use a suitable moisturizer and apply it gently and consistently to your skin to get the best results.
4. Select Perfect Makeup Products
If you are someone with an oily skin type, consider looking for non-comedogenic products. These products do not clog the skin pores, further solving various skin problems.
Home Remedies for Oily Skin
1. Honey
If you are tired of using blotting papers to maintain your skin, consider using honey. It has a significant amount of antibacterial properties, which can benefit the oily skin. Additionally, honey is also used as a natural humectant, leading to moist and hydrated skin.
2. Oatmeal
Oatmeal is considered to have a calming effect on the inflamed skin. It can further absorb the excessive oil, leading to skin exfoliation. You can use it as a face mask or combine it with ingredients like mashed fruit, yogurt, and honey.
3. Almonds
Almonds are known to be effective for absorbing excessive oil and dirt, leading to skin exfoliation. Grind raw almonds and add raw honey to them. Apply it gently to your face in a circular motion and wash off with water.
Oily skin is one of the most common problems people face. While genetics and lack of sleep are two of the causes of this issue, various environmental stressors instigate this skin condition. However, you can follow a proper skincare routine suitable for oily skin to eliminate acne breakouts and maintain healthy skin.