Written By: Zenani Sizane
This blog will dissect the most despised, yet desired, skin type: oily skin, also known as acne-prone skin. Oily skin is mostly disliked for its overproduction of sebum, which essentially leads to those with the skin type being prone to acne, but in the same breath, it is said that those with oily skin are less prone to fine lines and wrinkles because the oiler the better right? So people with oily skin, face the conundrum of having an advantage in terms of signs of aging appearing later in life but still having to avoid acne. In this post, we will discuss all of the issues that people with acne-prone skin face, as well as solutions for maintaining a balanced and healthy, blemish-free skin.
What is Oily Skin
Oily skin is caused by overactive sebaceous (oil) glands that produces an excessive amount of sebum (oil). Androgens, or the masculine hormone, are primarily in charge of this activity. Oily skin is distinguished by its shiny, thick, and firm appearance. Pores appear enlarged, which is usually due to oil. Cells and bacteria from the stratum corneum are trapped in the pilosebaceous follicle.
An oily complexion appears mucky and uncared for, with blemishes on the chin, cheeks, and/or forehead, and feels oily to the touch. Hot and humid climates tend to increase oil gland secretion, causing the skin to become oilier. Furthermore, oily skin problems can be exacerbated by improper use of skin care products. There is a tendency to dry out the skin by using harsh soaps or overusing astringents or scrubs, which disrupt the skin's barrier function and allow water to evaporate.
Scrubbing or stimulating massage should not be used to overstimulate skin functions. Oily skin is divided into two types: oily (without a lack of water) and oily dehydrated (with water deficiency). In the first case, the skin is properly hydrated; while it feels and looks oily, there is no sensation of "dryness." The lacks moisture in the second subcategory, all of the characteristics of oily skin are present, but the person complains of "dry skin."
Those with oily skin frequently use drying, dehydrating ingredients in an attempt to feel "less oily." The end result is flaky, rough, and scaly skin. When this type of condition arises, it is common to self-diagnose as having dry skin and to purchase oil-rich products. Because the skin already has enough oil, these products only aggravate the oily condition and cause blemishes, blackheads, and other problems. It is not uncommon for people with oily skin to believe that they do not need a moisturizer because they have oily skin.
As a result, it is critical to remember that oiliness is produced by the oil glands and moisture is produced by the intercellular channels. Morning and evening cleansing is essential for oily skin care. Oil-free moisturizers and lotions will keep your skin supple and moisturized. Other products, such as those that claim to regulate oil gland secretion, can be used; however, their effectiveness is debatable and will be discussed.
It is critical to keep only the skin clean and hydrated by using cleansing and moisturizing exfoliators that also provide moisture to the skin. Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) are highly recommended, as is the weekly use of enzyme peels designed specifically for oily skin.
These products help to improve the appearance and texture of oily skin by reducing oiliness and pore size and regulating exfoliation rates. This is the preferred skin type when properly cared for because the wrinkle process appears to be delayed.
How to Identify Oily Skin
Enlarged and Visible Pores
Shiny/greasy feel
May have blemishes
Prone to Comedones (Blackheads and
Less visible wrinkles
What Causes Oily Skin
Excessive sebum production is the root cause of oily skin which leads to acne breakouts and an oily complexion. However, there are other factors that can cause your skin to be oily, here are a couple of examples:
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal imbalances during puberty or pregnancy can result in oily skin.
Climate
Where you live and the time of the year can contribute to oily skin, if you live in a humid or hot environment. It is likely to result in oily skin.
Genetics
Do your own immediate family members have oily skin? if yes, then it is most likely you have it too.
Large pores
Large pores are more likely to produce more sebum
Over-Exfoliating and Using Harsh Soaps
Exfoliating too much or too hard can stimulate sebum production. Using harsh chemicals, not suitable for your skin type can also contribute to oily skin.
Symptoms of Oily Skin
Shiny Appearance
Greasy Feel
Large Pores
Clogged Pores and Blackheads
Skin Looks thick and rough
How to Treat Your Oily Skin
Wash Your Face Regularly
Use A Nourishing Toner
Do Not Rub Your Face, Pat It Dry
Use Blotting Paper
Use Hydrating Facial Masks
Moisturizer
Tips For Keeping a Balance and Healthy Skin
Decrease Inflammation
Control Oil Production
Stimulate Elimination
Balance Your Hormones
Recommended Skincare Routine
Double Cleanse = Oil Cleanser (Jojoba Oil) + Gentle Non-Foaming Cleanser
Willow Bark or Salicylic Acid Toner
Exfoliate (Masks + Chemical Exfoliants)
Nourishing Facial Masks (1/2 a
Serum (Try Something with Hyaluronic Acid)
Moisturizer
Facial Oil (Light Oils such as Evening Primrose, Grapeseed and Jojoba Oil are great for oily skin)
Sunscreen (30+ is always recommended)
* Always Remember to Reapply your SPF, during the course of the day.
Oily Skin Myths
Do not Over-Exfoliate
It is true that exfoliating once or twice a week is recommended and even beneficial, but as someone with oily skin, you may feel tempted to up your exfoliating game, but this is where it is strongly advised that you do not exfoliate excessively because exfoliating more than once a week can actually aggravate your acne due to an over-production of oil (sebum) due to exfoliating, so just exfoliate when you feel it is necessary.
Foaming Cleansers
The goal for acne-prone skin is to be aware that the goal is not to strip your skin of its oil, because the minute your skin feels stripped of its oil, it goes into panic mode and overproduces the oil that is required, which causes acne, and this is what foaming cleansers do; they have the ability to strip your skin of its sebum and does not help in balancing the pH of the skin.
Avoid Oils
Yes, avoiding mineral and refined oils is a good start, but why would you want to avoid some of the amazing plant oils that could have some ridiculously powerful benefits for your skin? Oils like Black Cumin Oil, Jojoba Oil, and Rosehip Oil have been repeatedly recommended for people with oily skin due to their ability to regulate sebum production. Linoleic acid-rich oils are recommended for oily skin because they help balance oil production on the skin.
Alcohol Toners Work Best
Attempting to remove the oil from your skin will be your worst mistake! We all need sebum production; you just have an abundance of it, whereas people with dry skin require a little more of it. Attempting to mattify your skin with alcohol-based toners and astringents such as denatured alcohol, ethanol, and isopropyl alcohol will only strip your skin of its healthy oils and water, resulting in increased oil production, which means more acne for you, which you want to avoid. That is why it is critical to read the labels of the products you buy and become familiar with the ingredients listed above to avoid. It is also critical not to confuse these alcohols with fatty alcohols such as Cetearyl Alcohol, which is beneficial to your skin.
LIFESTYLE TIPS FOR OILY SKIN
Lifestyle Changes to Make
Relax and Get Enough Sleep
Stay Hydrated and Drink Enough Water
Exercise to Eliminate Waste
Try to Incorporate Facials in Your weekly routine
Cut Down Your Sugar intake.
Make it a Habit to check what your put on your skin
Remove Make-Up before going to bed
Regularly clean your phone
what to eat for Your Oily Skin
Cucumbers
Cucumbers contain up to 95% water, making them the best food to eat when you want to rehydrate through eating. Cucumbers are well-known for their ability to reduce inflammation, eliminate toxins by flushing the system, and aid in digestion by creating a less acidic environment in the gut.
Cucumbers are also high in antioxidants, which fight free radicals that cause aging. Cucumber skin is one of the richest sources of silica, a mineral that activates enzymes involved in the production of collagen, which helps to maintain the structure and elasticity of the skin.
Dark Chocolate
Why Dark Chocolate in particular? You may be wondering, what is different dark chocolate? Dark chocolate is low in sugar, unsweetened, and contains at least 85% cocoa, the higher the percentage the better for you, which means it is high in antioxidants and is an effective anti-aging treatment for the skin. High-quality dark chocolate can protect the skin from UV rays while also firming and repairing the complexion.
Dark Chocolate's anti-inflammatory properties fight inflammation in the body, making it an excellent resource in the fight against skin conditions like rosacea and eczema. Chocolate is said to cause the body to release the hormone dopamine, which is responsible for feelings of satisfaction and happiness. How does this affect the skin? Well, chocolate can increase the production of mood enhancing neurotransmitters, which means it reduces stress hormones like cortisol and the skin is less vulnerable to the collagen breakdown that is associated with this process. Finally, even though Dark Chocolate is low in sugar, it should be consumed in moderation; as we all know, too much of anything is bad.
Leafy Greens: Kale/ Spinach
Leafy greens are extremely high in vitamins, minerals, and anti-aging phytochemicals. Dark leafy greens, such as kale and spinach, help to beautify your skin in ways that creams cannot. Greens' nutrients support new growth, cell repair, and detoxification of the body, making the skin, hair, nails, and teeth appear healthier, stronger, and younger. Leafy greens are high in Vitamin A, which aids in acne treatment by limiting sebum production and assisting the body in eliminating toxins for a clearer, calmer complexion.
Leafy greens also contain omega-3 fatty acids, which aid in the maintenance of healthy cell membranes and the maintenance of soft, supple skin. It is especially useful if you are a vegetarian who avoids eating oily fish.
Kiwi's
Kiwis are high in Vitamin C and are considered one of the best foods for your skin, with an even higher Vitamin C content than oranges. Kiwis are powerful antioxidants known for their ability to protect and brighten skin. Vitamin C is required for the growth and repair of tissues through collagen production. Because our bodies cannot produce or store Vitamin C, regular consumption of foods high in vitamin C content, such as the Kiwi fruit, is essential.
The kiwi fruit can be applied to the skin topically. The kiwi must be ripe in order for its properties to be more powerful and beneficial to the skin.
A KIWI A DAY REDUCES WRINKLES.
Avocados
Avocados contain monounsaturated fatty acids, which help to keep the skin moist and healthy while also protecting it from UV damage. Avocados can relieve both sensitivity and inflammation symptoms. It is high in antioxidants, which help protect skin cells from damage and the ravages of free radicals, promoting skin elasticity.
MORE SKIN FOODS TO CONSIDER:
Carrots
Guavas
Pulses
Tomatoes
Broccolli
Lemon
Bananas
Beverages that are Skin Savers
Water
Coconut Water
Rosemary Tea
Cucumber and Mint Water
Kombucha
Foods to Avoid for Oily Skin
Refined Sugars
Fizzy Drinks
Too Much Dairy
Too Much Caffeine
Alcohol
Processed Foods
Deep Fried Foods
Individual Ingredients that are good for Oily Skin
HERBS | OILS | ESSENTIAL OILS |
BURDOCK | NEEM OIL | TEA TREE |
ALOE VERA | JOJOBA OIL | FRANKINCENSE |
LAVENDER | ROSEHIP OIL | CLARY SAGE |
CALENDULA | GRAPESEED OIL | HELICHRYSUM |
ROSE | HEMP SEED OIL | ROMAN CHAMOMILE |
WILLOW BARK | PRICKLY PEAR OIL | NEROLI |
Until Next Time,
Love your skin.
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