H
aving oily skin can be a struggle, but you should never feel bad about it. Not in this time and age where information is as cheap as table salt. Oily skin is famous for its high shine and frequent breakouts, but there are more than enough effective ways to manage this. Dermatologists and experts have provided valuable insights into controlling excess oil and achieving a matte, balanced complexion. In this article, we cover seven proven methods to manage oily skin.
Here are the top 7 ways to control excess oil on the skin…
#1. Use an oil-absorbing mask
Oil-absorbing masks are a fantastic solution for instantly controlling oil and shine. Masks that contain ingredients like kaolin clay and activated charcoal have a natural tendency to absorb oil. When applied to the skin, they draw out sebum and impurities, leaving your skin looking matte and refreshed. Use these masks one to two times a week, or as needed to control oil.
#2. Avoid thick moisturizer
Skip the thick products and opt for oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizers specially formulated for oily skin. These lightweight moisturizers hydrate the skin without adding extra oil. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides that help maintain the skin’s moisture balance without clogging pores.
#3. Use a salicylic acid cleanser
Salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA), is a crucial ingredient for oily skin. Since oily skin is acne-prone, this acid penetrates the pores and dissolves the excess oil, dead skin cells, and impurities that can contribute to breakouts and shine. Use a salicylic acid cleanser once or twice daily to keep your skin clean and balanced.
#4. Consider a niacinamide serum
Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, is a versatile ingredient that can help control oil production and improve skin texture. It strengthens an oily skin barrier, reduces inflammation, and minimizes the appearance of pores. Apply a niacinamide serum in the morning and evening for best results.
#5. Exfoliate twice a week
Regular exfoliation is necessary for oily skin to shed off the buildup of dead skin cells that can increase more oils and cause breakouts. When exfoliating, use a gentle chemical exfoliant containing alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid. Physical scrubs can be used to control excess oil, but it should be done mildly to prevent micro-cuts. Exfoliate no more than twice a week to avoid over-exfoliation, which can worsen oily skin.
#6. Use a primer before applying makeup
When it comes to applying makeup, the choice of primer is important, especially if you have oily skin. Oil-based primers can increase your skin’s natural sheen, causing your makeup to slide off. To achieve a lasting and matte finish, you should steer clear of oil-based primers and explore alternative options.
Choose mattifying or silicone-based primers explicitly designed to combat excess oil. Mattifying primers often contain ingredients like silica, which help absorb and control oil throughout the day. By creating a great barrier on your oily skin, they prevent excess sebum from breaking through your makeup.
#7. Use a translucent powder
Translucent powders are a secret weapon for anyone with oily skin. These finely milled powders are formulated to be colorless, which means they won’t alter the shade of your foundation. Their primary purpose is to set your makeup, keep shine at bay, and give you that coveted matte finish. After you’ve applied your foundation and concealer, lightly dust a translucent powder over your face to help “lock in” your makeup. This step prevents your foundation from transferring or creasing throughout the day.
Oil-control translucent powders also contain oil-absorbing ingredients like talc or silica. When you apply the powder to areas prone to oiliness, such as the T-zone, it soaks up excess sebum, leaving your skin looking matte and fresh.
Featured image: Sora Shimazak/iStock
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