No matter what your skin type is, you have a built-in oil producer in the form of sebaceous glands. These glands produce sebum, a waxy material that hydrates and protects your skin.
The right amount of sebum keeps your skin healthy, but too much can lead to oily skin, clogged pores, and acne breakouts.
At Med Physique Center for Aesthetics in Austin, Texas, our aestheticians offer numerous options for de-aging and rejuvenating your skin. If you have oily skin, try our suggestions below to manage the problem.
Yes, oily skin can clog pores and lead to acne breakouts, but it has a number of benefits, too. People with oily skin tend to have thicker skin layers and fewer wrinkles, among other things. You need to find the balance between having too much oil and holding on to your skin’s natural moisture.
Use the following tips to find your balance:
Wash your face every morning, evening, and after doing any exercise. Use a gentle foaming wash and warm water, avoiding soaps with added fragrances, moisturizers, or harsh chemicals that can irritate your skin and dry it out, causing your body to produce more sebum as a result.
If you have oily skin but aren’t prone to acne breakouts, try an oil- and fragrance-free glycerin soap and hot water.
Never use a rough cloth to wash and dry your skin, as you’ll only irritate it and make the problem worse. Use a soft cloth and pat your face dry.
You apply toner after you’ve washed to remove any last impurities stuck in your pores.
If you’re going for an astringent, don’t use one that contains alcohol, as it can dry out your skin. A natural astringent, though, such as witch hazel, can be soothing, according to one study.
Its high tannin content makes it both a good astringent and anti-inflammatory, and it can reduce the appearance of large pores. As some people are sensitive to it, though, it’s a good idea to try a skin test before committing to the product.
Choose skin care products labeled “oil-free” and “non-comedogenic.” Products that have these labels won’t clog your pores or cause acne.
We get it. Why would you want to apply a moisturizer if your skin’s already oily? The simple answer is that it’s still important to keep your skin hydrated.
Choose a moisturizer that’s oil-free. Better yet, get one that contains a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher. Being out in the sun can dry out your skin and make it age prematurely.
Research suggests that an aloe vera product with at least 10% aloe can be soothing to your skin and works effectively as a moisturizer.
Some facial masks can help treat oily skin. They contain ingredients such as:
Use these sparingly, as they can have drying properties if you apply them too frequently.
Blotting papers don’t clean out pores, but they do mop up excess oil that appears on your skin’s surface. Gently press the paper against your face for a few seconds to absorb the oil. Don’t rub the paper, as this spreads the oil to other areas.
Want more tips and tricks to keep your face clean and bright? Give Med Physique Center for Aesthetics a call at 512-212-3142, or book online with us today.
