Oily Skin
In some people, though, the sebaceous glands can produce too much oil.
This creates oily skin.
Breakouts are also more likely because the sebum mixes with dead skin cells and gets stuck in your pores.
The causes of oily skin include genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.
Symptom
Shiny or greasy appearanceVery large or obvious pores on the skinSkin that looks thick or roughOccasional or persistent pimplesClogged pores and blackheads
Hormone changes or high-stress levels may also increase the production of oily sebum by the body.
Treatment
Wash with a gentle soap and warm water.Avoid soaps with fragrances, added moisturizers, or harsh chemicals, which can irritate or dry out the skin, making it respond by creating more sebum.Avoid loofahs and rough washcloths, as added friction may stimulate the skin to make more oil.
Some medicated acne care products may help
Salicylic acidGlycolic acidBeta-hydroxy acidBenzoyl peroxide
Use a toner
Astringent toners that contain alcohol tend to dry out the skin.
However, according to a 2014 study, natural astringents, such as witch hazel, can have skin soothing properties.
Pat the face dry
This should be done with care.
Pulling down on the skin with a towel, or using a rough washcloth, is not advised, as it may stimulate the skin to create more sebum.
Use blotting papers and medicated pads
Many companies make blotting papers, which are specially designed absorbent papers that pull oil from the skin.Blotting papers will not treat the sebum production in the skin, but they can be used to lift excess oil off the skin throughout the day to make it appear less shiny.A person could also try cloth pads that are medicated with familiar cleansing ingredients, such as salicylic acid or glycolic acid. These may help to remove excess oil through the day, while cleansing the pores and skin.
Use a facial maskCertain facial masks may be beneficial for treating oily skin.
These may contain ingredients such as:Clay. Masks containing minerals like smectite or bentonite can absorb oils and reduce skin shininess and sebum levels without irritating the skin. Use them only occasionally to prevent the skin drying out, and apply a gentle moisturizer afterward.Honey. A 2011 study reports that natural raw honey has antibacterial and antiseptic qualities. A 10-minute honey face mask may reduce acne and oily skin while keeping the skin soft.Oatmeal. Masks containing colloidal oatmeal may help to cleanse the skin, as suggested in a 2014 study. Oats contain gentle, cleansing saponins, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds that could soothe irritated skin.
Apply moisturizers
While many people with oily skin steer clear of moisturizers for fear that their skin will look greasier, using the right moisturizers can benefit this type of skin.For people with very oily skin, an oil-free moisturizer could help keep the skin moist and protected, without it feeling greasy.
Some people choose to use pure aloe gel for moisturizing, but they need to be aware of hidden ingredients, especially denatured alcohol, which could dry and irritate the skin.