Why Is My Face So Oily?

IN THIS ARTICLE:

01 What Is Oily Skin?
02 What Causes Oily Skin?
03 How To Moisturize Oily Skin?
04 Recommended Treatments For Oily Skin
05 Skincare Habits For Oily Skin

Originally published on December 12, 2021. Last updated on December 29, 2023.

Properly caring for oily skin starts with gaining insight into the factors that contribute to that persistent, glossy sheen on your complexion. Oily skin can be attributed to various factors such as genetics, environmental conditions, stress, and hormonal fluctuations.

What Is Oily Skin?

Your skin type is determined by the level of sebum your skin naturally produces. Oily skin is characterized by an excess production of these natural oils, particularly in the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin). This skin type typically exhibits a noticeable shine, enlarged pores, and the presence of blackheads, which can make it more prone to acne breakouts.

Those with generous natural oil production in their skin may enjoy the perk of experiencing fewer wrinkles and fine lines, which presents a distinct advantage for their oil-prone complexion.

What Causes Oily Skin?

Here are some of the most common causes of oily skin to keep in mind.

Over-washing your face - while it may seem like the solution, excessive washing can actually trigger your skin to produce more oil
Age – the amount of oil your skin produces typically varies throughout your lifetime. During puberty oil production spikes the most.
Genetics - Some people are just genetically predisposed to having oilier skin, and as we age, our skin's natural oil production can increase.
Wrong skincare products - using products that are too heavy or not suitable for your skin type can exacerbate oiliness.
Skipping moisturizer - when your skin isn't properly hydrated, it may naturally compensate by producing even more sebum.

How To Moisturize Oily Skin?

Don't be fooled by the misconception that oily skin doesn't need moisturizing. In fact, moisturizing is crucial for keeping your skin healthy and functioning as a protective barrier. The key difference is choosing a water-based cream instead of a thicker formula. When oily skin becomes dehydrated, it can lead to breakouts and even acne, not to mention premature aging if the right moisturizers are not used.

Look for lightweight options with high levels of "humectants," which draw water from the surroundings. Avoid moisturizers that create a heavy barrier and potentially clog pores. Oil-free moisturizers with ingredients like salicylic acid can help control excess sebum. Gel or mattifying moisturizers are also worth considering.

The trick is to use the right amount of product. Aim for 1-3 pumps and massage the moisturizer into your skin, improving blood circulation and absorption. If you use a serum, apply the moisturizer while the serum is still damp to trap and enhance absorption.

Recommended Treatments For Oily Skin

Here are some recommended solutions to help you conquer the grease:

Gel cleansers and washes

Opt for gentle cleansers specifically formulated for oily skin. These can effectively remove excess oil and impurities without stripping away essential moisture.

Vitamin C serum

Elevate your routine with a vitamin C serum. It can help brighten your complexion while avoiding vitamin E, which can potentially clog your pores.

The Anti-Blemish Repair Serum is an oil-free and deeply moisturizing serum that prevents excess oil from clogging pores. With hydrating botanicals like hyaluronic acid, it soothes and nourishes your skin, leaving it calm and hydrated.

AHA and BHA infused face masks

Treat yourself to a refreshing face mask infused with AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) or BHA (beta hydroxy acid). These exfoliating ingredients can help unclog pores and reduce excess oil for a smoother complexion.

LED light therapy

Control unruly pores conveniently and effectively with light therapy using a LED light therapy mask. This method uses natural light waves to stimulate skin cells and boost nutrition. The blue light is particularly effective in minimizing pores, thus controlling oil production, and reducing acne and inflammation.

Skincare habits for oily skin

Mastering your skincare routine for oily skin doesn't always require a fortune. You can take control of oiliness right at home with a few simple habits:

Cleanse, but don't overwash - Keep your skin clean by washing it regularly, but be careful not to overdo it. Overwashing can strip away essential oils, causing your skin to compensate with even more oil production.
Remove makeup thoroughly - Make sure to thoroughly remove makeup, as leftover residue can clog your pores and contribute to oiliness. Opt for gentle, oil-free makeup removers that won't leave behind greasy residues.
Exfoliate, but not too often - Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, but be mindful of how often you exfoliate. Overdoing it can irritate your skin and trigger more oil production. Stick to a gentle exfoliating routine, no more than a few times a week.
Use scrubs and masks in moderation - While scrubs and masks can be beneficial for oily skin, it's important not to go overboard. Use them in moderation to avoid drying out your skin or causing irritation. Look for products specifically formulated for oily skin.
Simplify your skincare routine - Oily skin doesn't always require a complicated routine. Keep it simple and focus on key steps like cleansing, moisturizing with oil-free products, and using targeted treatments for specific concerns like acne.

written by Olivia Khader

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