Oily Skincare: What Is Oily Skin and How Is It Caused?
The Skinsmith | 28th July 2021
How Do You Know If You Have Oily Skin?
Oily skin is a skin type that produces lots and lots of oil. This is where oily skincare products come in. Oily skin is a natural effect from overproductive sebaceous glands found in the skin and is especially noticeable on the face although the chest and back areas can also be susceptible to the effects of oily skin.
The typical signs that your skin is oily include:
- Shiny, greasy or oily areas of skin on your face, especially in the T-zone
- The oiliness can build up during the day so you could start the day with a clean, clear skin but by lunchtime you see that shine start to make an appearance
- Make-up is tricky as it doesn’t last very long on an oily skin
- Oily skin types can have larger pores, these can become blocked or congested leading to blackheads or comedones
- Oily skin may also suffer with pimples as the excess oil gets trapped in hair follicles causing spots and blemishes
- An oily skin can be a thicker skin which can mean it is a little less sensitive and more resilient than a dry skin type. This could mean you can take more intensive treatments such as organic peels
The signs and symptoms of Oily Skin
What Are the Causes of Oily Skin?
Simply put, an oily skin produces too much sebum! Sebum is an oily substance in your skin and is needed to keep your skin hydrated and moisturised. It also helps to keep your skin barrier function healthy which is the protective layer on the surface of your skin that keeps bacteria, dirt and environmental stressors out and moisture in. Although the cause of “greasy” skin is because it is a little overzealous in the production department there can be other factors that trigger or calm the amount of sebum your skin makes.
It is possible that your diet may affect the amount of oil your skin produces, so it may help to limit fatty foods, pre-packaged meals and greasy takeaways. Instead opt for a healthier diet including whole grains, pulses, fruits and vegetables. Also, make sure you stay hydrated by drinking lots of water or herbal teas. When asked how to reduce oily skin we often advise you to look at the cosmetic and skincare products you are using. Make sure they are not oil-based and make sure they don’t over-strip your skin leaving it feeling dry. Products that strip or remove too much of those vital oils can actually have an adverse effect resulting in more oil being produced to replace what has been stripped away! Thus, making your skin even oilier than before.
Finding the right oily skincare products can help to balance the oil production and keep your skin clearer and leave a more matte appearance.
Oily Skincare: How To Treat Oily Skin Effectively?
Although you have oily skin and want it to look and feel cleaner and clearer it is vital to avoid over-stimulating your skin with an aggressive cleansing routine. Instead opt for a gentle facial wash formulated to cleanse and hydrate the skin as well as balance oil production, Stone Crop Gel Wash is one of our favourites and really easy to use. Avoid harsh cleansers with sulphates or the very common soap and water option as these will remove too much oil and result in possibly more oil as mentioned earlier.
A toner is very important when looking at oily skincare products to help combat your oily skin. They balance the skin's pH and can be formulated to balance oil production also. Eminence toners do not contain alcohol which strips away vital oils and have a refreshing, hydrating feel when spritzed onto the skin. We have two faves for oily skin, Stone Crop Hydrating Mist and Lime Refresh Tonique.
The addition of a face masque can be an excellent solution to treat oily skin as they are designed to infuse your skin with concentrated ingredients and help to treat other skin concerns. For oily skins, Eminence has lots of choices from spicy warming masques to treatment masques. With additional benefits and results, you can choose the masque that best suits your particular oily skin type and concern.
Now, this step is often missed or avoided because people with oily skins often don’t want to add more moisture or oil! But the step of moisturising your skin is vital to help to protect and balance your oily skin. Moisturisers for oily skin are designed to feel lighter and not “greasy”. They will hydrate and balance the production of sebum and help to reduce shine and keep your complexion mattified. Stone Crop Hydrating Gel is a super lightweight skin hydrator, perfect for even the oiliest of skins. Clear Skin Probiotic Moisturiser is a lightweight moisturiser that also helps to heal and prevent blemishes.
Discover 7 Of the Most Effective, Must Try Oily Skincare Products by Clicking Here
Looking for an effective solution to help combat your oily skin? Check out our guide and discover seven of the most effective and must-try oily skincare products by clicking here.
Have a question about oily skin or want to find out more? Get in touch and speak to a member of our highly-experienced and friendly team today on 01305 300950 or by emailing our team at [email protected]. You can also contact a member of our team today by utilising our quick and easy contact form below. We look forward to hearing from you.