What Causes It?
Oily skin is caused by glands that produce too much oil, or sebum. Who has oily skin? Mostly people whose ancestors had it too, since the trait is hereditary. Hormonal fluctuations (especially during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause) also play a role, as oil glands switch into overdrive during those times and produce excess sebum, especially in the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin areas). This not only creates an oil slick but can also block pores and cause acne. Birth control pills can also exacerbate oily skin problems, although some pills can actually help the situation. (Men may also be affected by hormonal changes, although to a much lesser degree.) And while you may think that what you eat affects your complexion, experts say diet isn’t a key factor at all — so go ahead and have that slice of pizza!
Follow these simple steps and you’ll do your oily skin a huge favor...
Don’t overwash. This isn’t a hygiene issue, so washing more often won’t help. When you do wash or bathe, use lukewarm (not hot) water and a cleanser specially formulated for oily skin. Look for gentle products that contain glycerin or salicylic acid, which can help keep pores clear. Avoid cleansing “milks,” which contain lipids that can make skin feel greasier.
Consider retinoids. Talk to your dermatologist about medications that decrease oil production; retinoids come in both over-the-counter and prescription-strength versions.
Dry before you apply. Let skin dry completely before applying any topical medications or moisturizers so you don’t clog those pores.
Go oil-free. The last thing your skin needs is extra oil, so opt for oil-free skin-care products and cosmetics. And while you’re at it, make sure all products are fragrance-free and nonirritating too.
Moisturize wisely. If your skin needs a moisture boost, go with a light, oil-free product and apply sparingly.
Wear sunscreen. Look for an oil-free, broad-spectrum block with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 15 or higher. And wear it every day, year-round!
Soak it up. One easy way to absorb oil without having to wash your face and reapply your makeup is to use blotting sheets. Stash a pack in your purse or desk to soak up “puddles” throughout the day.
A final word: If your oily skin is also accompanied by breakouts or a more serious acne problem, talk to your dermatologist about acne treatments and a skin-care regimen you can follow while caring for your oily skin.
