9 things you’re not supposed to Oily Skin
Oily skin can be a real headache, as constant blackheads, bruises, and sticky spots can be difficult to handle. And while you might think that
a good facial mask and detoxifying cleanser is all it takes to get rid of excess greasiness, that’s not always the case. Dermatologists say that there are some significant skin-care doses that you can’t bear in mind when coping with oily skin and that there are obviously harmless behaviors that you can engage in that can make your skin worse.
To help you determine the skin-care habits you should leave behind, we talked to some seasoned pros about the issue. Below are some helpful hacks that are recommended to keep on your radar next time your face feels particularly greasy.
Don't clean up too much
“The most common error I see in my patients with oily skin is over-cleaning, whether it is too regular to clean the skin or too astringent,” said Dr. Inessa Fishman, a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon.
Over-cleaning strips the skin of its natural protective layer, she explained, which can lead to redness, inflammation, acne outbreaks, and irritation.
“I like a quick skincare routine and like to keep the morning measures limited to cleanser, vitamin C serum, moisturizer if it feels dry, and sunscreen powder,” Fishman told INSIDER.
Don’t make your skincare routine too complicated
With so many trendy items that consistently offer impressive results, it can be tempting to overdo it when it comes to your skincare routine. But dermatologists suggest it’s best to keep it straightforward when it comes to your skin.
Do not use harsh products
“I still advise my patients with oily skin to avoid over-drying the skin with harsh products,” said Lisa A. Carroll, MD, FAAD, Brinton Lake Dermatology.
Although it is tempting to do so, she explained that stripping the skin’s natural oils will only lead to more oil production and even more oily skin.
Do not use alcohol-based goods
If you’re suffering from oily skin or acne, Carroll said you might be forced to try alcohol-based skin products. However, she advised you to avoid these items because they could dry your skin out.
“Your sebaceous glands will get a message that your skin is too dry and work overtime to generate even more sebum (skin oils),” she said.
Stop super-gentle cleaners
It’s all about balance when it comes to treating oily skin. Even if you’re not going to use harsh cleaners, you shouldn’t use extremely gentle cleaners, either.
“Avoid super-gentle cleaners because you need a little oil-cutting in your cleaner, particularly at night,” said the dermatologist Dr. Anna Guanche, MD, FAAD.
Don't miss seeing a dermatologist
“It is recommended to see a dermatologist for individuals who have highly oily skin, for those who still have acne, or for those who want more intensive treatment,” said Dr. Fayne Frey, FAAD.
Prescription and non-prescription retinoids (vitamin A derivatives) are available that can reduce oil production, she explained. Your doctor will give you advice on which one is best.
Don't use a low SPF sunscreen
“Personals with oily skin should apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 (or higher) to their faces regularly, liberally, and frequently,” Dr. Frey told INSIDER.
It is recommended that individuals with oily skin try to apply some sunscreen behind their ear (or to a specific area of their face or neck) for a five-day trial to determine how it appears on their skin and the effectiveness of a particular sunscreen, she added.
Do not use hydrating primers
“If you use makeup primer, be sure not to use hydrating primer products,” said the dermatologist Dr. Debra Jaliman. Instead, Jaliman suggested that people with oily skin adhere to the use of matifying primers.
That way, when they apply makeup, their skin doesn’t look oily.
Do not use greasy skin care products
“Avoid moisturizers and foundations that are too greasy or too thick,” Dr. Jaliman told INSIDER. Try using lotions instead of creams and ointments, as the texture of the lotions is lighter, she said.