Everyone’s skin is unique and that’s not a bad thing. Some folks have oily skin, dry skin, or even combination skin. Your skin may even oscillate between categories depending on environmental factors.
Oily skin doesn’t necessarily mean your skin is bad or needs to be fixed, but it can be a challenge when excess oil throws off your skin’s natural biome. The good news is, glowing dewy skin is in. So you’ll never again have to dry your skin to the point of damage trying to get the perfect matte look again.
Are you waiting to hear what the bad news is? Because you won’t read it here. The fact of the matter is that these days if you’re looking to treat oily skin there are lots of options for keeping your skin in balance.
Let’s dive into some products that can help you “fix” that oily skin — and the best way to use them to even out your complexion.
Cleanse Your Face Twice a Day
If you’re experiencing excess oil you should switch to cleansing your face twice a day. Once in the morning and once in the evening. Try cleansing twice a day only for as long as needed. Remember, the oils your skin produces are meant to protect it. So, over-cleansing and drying out your face can actually lead to excess oil production.
Similarly, you want to choose a cleaner that will be gentle on your skin. Look for a cleanser that blends ingredients that are meant to detoxify and moisturize. A charcoal cleanser is great for drawing out impurities but you’ll want it balanced with a moisturizer like coconut or jojoba oil.
It may seem counter-intuitive to look for a cleanser that contains oil but the key is to find something that cleanses and nourishes your skin. Otherwise, you may trigger even more excess oil production.
Use a Detoxifying Mask Twice a Month
Try adding a purifying face mask to your routine. This will help draw out toxins and dry out oily areas. Try to find a product that will detoxify and nourish your face. Look for ingredients like mineral-rich bentonite clay and willow bark. These will help soothe and restore your skin while pulling out excess oil.
Face masks are a great addition to your skincare routine, but they should be used sparingly. Twice a month should be enough to reap the benefits without overdrying your skin and causing damage.
Exfoliate with A Face Scrub Once a Week
If you’re face still feels too oily after incorporating face masks and twice-a-day cleansing into your routine you may want to add in an exfoliating face scrub. For the same reasons that you don’t want to over-cleanse you definitely don’t want to over-exfoliate so limit your face scrub use to once a week.
Exfoliants slough away dead skin cells and reveal fresh skin underneath. This can help strip clogged pores and reduce oil, but it can also be tough on skin. Look for an exfoliant scrub that has soothing anti-inflammatory ingredients like chamomile, aloe, apricot, and papaya.
Moisturize Your Skin Every Day
This is another one that might feel counter-intuitive, but rest assured protecting your skin with an antioxidant-rich moisturizer after cleansing will help balance your oil production. The trick is to find a lightweight moisturizer that will help hydrate and brighten your skin without feeling heavy. Good ingredients to look for in this product are vitamins E and C, as well as natural light oils like macadamia oil.
If you are someone that is suffering from premature wrinkles and fine lines as result of pollution, stress and health conditions, you need something else. While moisturizing can help, experts recommend opting for dermatologically tested anti aging products. They contain elements that have a positive impact on reversing the signs of aging within a few months. Normal moisturizers are not going to give you such desired results.
Always Wear Sunscreen
Last, but most importantly you should be applying sunscreen to your face every single day. The sun damages the skin in numerous ways, and it’s easy to underestimate how much sun exposure you get on a daily basis. Even if you plan on being inside most of the day, protecting your face with a broad spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen that’s SPF 30 or higher is the best thing you can do for your skin.
For oily and sensitive skin a mineral-based sunscreen is best. Look for something with lightweight moisture and a little tint to balance out the white cast that can come with mineral-based products.
Incorporate these five types of products into your skincare routine and you’re sure to even out your oily skin. It may take some experimenting to find the right balance, but with a little time, you’re sure to find what’s right for you.
