If you’re anything like us, dealing with oily skin can be a real pain. It can leave us feeling self-conscious and frustrated, and cause nasty breakouts. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! With our amazing oily skin routine and a little bit of patience, you can achieve a healthy and radiant complexion that you can feel confident and empowered in.
So, let’s get started and discover the secrets to the perfect oily skin routine!
How common is oily skin?
Do you ever feel like you’re the only one dealing with oily skin? Well, you’re definitely not alone. In fact, oily skin is incredibly common and affects people of all ages and genders. It’s estimated that about 50% of people have oily skin, so if you’re struggling with it, you’re definitely not in the minority.
If anything, you can take some comfort in knowing that you are just one of the millions who deal with oily skin on a daily basis. There’s strength in numbers, as they say!
What causes oily skin?
Before we jump into our incredible oily skin routine, let’s do some homework. What causes oily skin to begin with? Well, there are several factors at play.
Genetics
Firstly, genetics can play a significant role. If your parents or other family members have oily skin, there’s a good chance you will too. This is because the size and activity level of your sebaceous glands (which produce oil) are largely determined by your genes. Oily skin is a natural skin type that many of us have. Thanks a lot, DNA!
Hormones
Hormones are another major factor. During puberty, the body produces more androgens (male hormones), which can cause the sebaceous glands in the skin to produce more oil. Hormonal fluctuations during menstrual cycles, pregnancy[1], and menopause can also lead to oily skin. This is why many people experience oily skin during certain stages of life.
Environment
Environmental factors can also contribute to sudden oily skin. Humidity and hot weather can cause the skin to produce more oil as a way of cooling down the body. On the other hand, using harsh or drying skincare products can actually cause the skin to overcompensate by producing even more oil. Additionally, exposure to pollution and toxins in the environment can contribute to the development of oily skin.
Lifestyle
Lastly, lifestyle factors such as stress, lack of sleep, and poor diet can also contribute to oily skin. Stress can increase the production of cortisol, a hormone that can stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more oil. Lack of sleep can also lead to an increase in oil production. Eating a diet that is high in sugar, refined carbohydrates, and unhealthy fats can also contribute to oily skin.
By understanding the various factors that contribute to oily skin, you can start to take steps to manage it. In the next section, we’ll dive into some practical tips and tricks for managing oily skin on a daily basis.
The best oily skin routine – Step by step
We’ve put together a fabulous daily skincare routine specifically designed for oily skin. We believe this is the best all-around routine that will give the most promising results.
Remember, everyone’s skin is different, so don’t fret if you have better or worse results than someone else. Skincare tends to be a trial-and-error process. The most important thing is to remain consistent and dedicated.
Without further ado, let’s get started!
Step 1: Cleanse with a gentle, oil-free cleanser
The first step in any skincare routine is to cleanse your skin. Look for a gentle, oil-free cleanser that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils. Foaming or gel-based cleansers tend to work best for oily skin types. Cleansing helps remove dirt, oil, and makeup that can clog pores and lead to breakouts.
Step 2: Tone with a clarifying toner
After cleansing, it’s important to use a toner to help remove any remaining dirt and oil from your skin. Look for a toner that contains salicylic acid or witch hazel, which can help clarify and unclog pores. Be sure to avoid toners that contain alcohol, as they can be too harsh and drying for oily skin.
Step 3: Apply a lightweight moisturizer
Yes, even oily skin types need moisturizer! Look for a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer that won’t clog your pores. Moisturizing helps keep your skin hydrated and healthy, and can actually help regulate your skin’s oil production. It’s best to apply your moisturizer when your skin is still slightly damp from cleansing or toning.
Step 4: Use a non-comedogenic sunscreen during the day
Protecting your skin from the sun is crucial, even if you have oily skin. Look for a non-comedogenic (i.e. won’t clog pores) sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Apply it as the final step in your morning skincare routine, after your moisturizer. Not only will this help treat oiliness, but it will also minimize dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
Step 5: Consider adding an oil-absorbing product to your routine
If you’re really struggling with oily skin, consider incorporating an oil-absorbing product into your routine. This could be a mattifying primer, blotting papers, or even a face mask that contains ingredients like clay or charcoal. These products can help absorb excess oil throughout the day and keep your skin looking fresh and matte.
By following this simple and effective skincare routine, you can help manage oily skin and achieve a healthier, more balanced complexion. Remember to be patient and consistent with your routine, as it may take some time to see lasting results.
Natural remedies for oily skin
If you want to treat your oily skin without breaking the bank for products, there are some DIY options you can try at home.
Here are some of our favorites:
Honey
Honey has natural antibacterial properties, making it a great option for oily skin types that are prone to breakouts. It can help unclog pores and soothe inflammation. To use, simply apply a thin layer of honey to your face and leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off with warm water.
Green tea
Green tea is packed with antioxidants that can help reduce oil production and inflammation in the skin. To use, brew a cup of green tea and allow it to cool. Use a cotton ball to apply the tea to your face, and leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off with cool water.
Lemon juice
Lemon juice contains citric acid, which can help exfoliate the skin and control oil production. It’s important to dilute lemon juice with water before applying it to your skin, as undiluted lemon juice can be too harsh. Mix equal parts lemon juice and water, and use a cotton ball to apply to your face. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off with cool water.
Aloe vera
Aloe vera is a natural astringent that can help reduce excess oil and soothe irritated skin. It also has antibacterial properties that can help prevent breakouts. Apply a thin layer of aloe vera gel to your face and leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off with cool water.
By incorporating these natural remedies into your daily schedule, you can help manage oily skin without resorting to harsh chemicals or expensive treatments. Remember to patch-test any new ingredients before applying them to your entire face.
Ingredients to Avoid
When it comes to skincare for oily skin, there are certain ingredients and types of products that you should avoid. These products can exacerbate oil production and cause breakouts. Here are some ingredients to watch out for:
- Heavy oils: Oils such as coconut oil, olive oil, and avocado oil are great for dry skin, but they can be too heavy for oily skin types. They can clog pores and cause breakouts.
- Alcohol: While some toners contain alcohol, it’s best to avoid it if you have oily skin. Alcohol can be too harsh and drying, which can lead to even more oil production.
- Fragrances: Fragrances can be irritating to the skin and can cause breakouts or allergic reactions.
- Sulfates: Sulfates are a type of detergent that can be found in some cleansers. They can be too harsh and strip the skin of its natural oils, which can cause even more oil production.
- Thick creams: Heavy creams can clog pores and make oily skin worse. Look for lightweight, oil-free moisturizers instead.
Avoiding these ingredients can help keep your skin looking healthy and balanced. Remember to always read the labels on your skincare products and do your research before trying something new.
Conclusion
Managing oily skin can be challenging, but with the right oily skincare routine and ingredients, it’s possible to achieve a healthier, more balanced complexion.
Natural remedies like honey, aloe vera, and green tea can also be effective in controlling oil production and reducing inflammation.
Remember, it’s important to avoid certain ingredients and types of products that can exacerbate oily skin, such as heavy oils, alcohol, and harsh exfoliants.
By following the tips and steps outlined in this article, you can take control of your oily skin and enjoy more beautiful and breathable skin. Good luck!
