Dealing with oily skin can be a daily challenge, often leading to unwanted shine and breakouts. However, understanding how to properly care for oily skin can make a significant difference. While oily skin can contribute to clogged pores and acne, it also has advantages, such as helping to keep the skin moisturized and reducing the appearance of wrinkles over time. The key is to find the right balance.
To help you manage oily skin effectively, here are essential do’s and don’ts recommended by dermatologists, designed to guide you towards healthier, balanced skin.
Dermatologist-Recommended Dos for Oily Skin Care
1. Cleanse Regularly and After Sweating
Washing your face is crucial, especially if you have oily skin. Aim to cleanse your face up to twice a day – once in the morning and once at night. It’s also important to cleanse after any activity that causes you to sweat, such as exercise. Sweat can mix with oil and bacteria on your skin, potentially leading to clogged pores and breakouts. When cleansing, be gentle. Avoid harsh scrubbing, even when removing makeup. Aggressive scrubbing can irritate your skin, which paradoxically can stimulate more oil production as your skin tries to compensate for the irritation.
2. Choose “Oil-Free” and “Non-Comedogenic” Products
Selecting the right skincare products is paramount for managing oily skin. Look for products labeled “oil-free” and “non-comedogenic.” These labels indicate that the product is formulated to not clog pores or contribute to acne. This applies to all types of skincare products, including cleansers, moisturizers, and makeup. Certain ingredients are particularly beneficial for oily skin. Salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and lactic acid are known to help reduce oiliness and gently exfoliate the skin. However, these ingredients can be potent and may cause irritation for some individuals. If you experience redness, dryness, or peeling, reduce how often you use products containing these acids or discontinue use altogether if irritation persists.
3. Use a Gentle, Foaming Face Wash
It might seem logical to use a strong, harsh face wash to combat oily skin, but this can actually backfire. Overly aggressive cleansers can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to irritation and, counterintuitively, an increase in oil production as your skin attempts to rehydrate and protect itself. Instead, opt for a gentle, foaming face wash. Foaming cleansers are effective at removing excess oil and impurities without being overly drying or irritating. A mild cleanser will cleanse your skin effectively while maintaining its natural balance.
4. Moisturize Daily
It may seem counterintuitive to moisturize oily skin, but hydration is essential for all skin types, including oily skin. Skipping moisturizer can lead to dehydration, which can trigger your skin to produce even more oil to compensate. The key is to choose the right kind of moisturizer. Look for lightweight, oil-free, and non-comedogenic formulas. Gel-based or water-based moisturizers are excellent choices for oily skin as they provide hydration without adding extra oil. For added convenience and protection, consider using a moisturizer that includes a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. This simplifies your routine and protects your skin from sun damage simultaneously.
5. Apply Sunscreen Every Day
Sun protection is vital for everyone, and it’s particularly important when you’re managing oily skin. Sunscreen not only protects against skin cancer, wrinkles, and age spots but also helps prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from acne breakouts. When choosing a sunscreen for oily skin, look for oil-free and non-comedogenic formulas. Mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are often recommended as they are gentle and less likely to cause irritation or breakouts. Avoid sunscreens that contain fragrances or oils, as these can exacerbate oiliness and potentially clog pores. In addition to sunscreen, seek shade, especially during peak sun hours, and wear sun-protective clothing like wide-brimmed hats for extra defense against sun exposure.
6. Select Oil-Free, Water-Based Makeup
If you use makeup, the choices you make can significantly impact your oily skin. Opt for oil-free and water-based makeup products. These formulations are less likely to clog pores and contribute to breakouts. Products labeled “matte” are particularly beneficial for oily skin as they are designed to reduce shine and provide a less dewy finish. Consider using mineral makeup, which is often recommended for sensitive and oily skin types due to its lightweight and non-comedogenic nature.
Dermatologist-Recommended Don’ts for Oily Skin Care
1. Don’t Use Oil-Based or Alcohol-Based Cleansers
Steer clear of cleansers that are oil-based or contain a high percentage of alcohol. Oil-based cleansers can leave a residue on your skin, contributing to oiliness and clogged pores. Alcohol-based cleansers, while initially seeming to dry out the skin, can be overly stripping and irritating. This irritation can trigger your skin to produce more oil in response, exacerbating the problem.
2. Don’t Sleep in Makeup
Never go to bed without removing your makeup. Sleeping in makeup is detrimental to all skin types, but especially problematic for oily skin. Makeup, along with the day’s accumulation of oil, dirt, and pollutants, can clog pores overnight, significantly increasing the risk of breakouts. Use a gentle makeup remover before cleansing to ensure all traces of makeup are removed.
3. Don’t Over-Exfoliate
While exfoliation can be beneficial for removing dead skin cells and preventing clogged pores, over-exfoliating can be harmful. Excessive exfoliation can irritate your skin, leading to increased oil production and inflammation. Limit exfoliation to 1-2 times per week, using gentle exfoliants such as chemical exfoliants (like AHAs or BHAs) or mild physical scrubs. Pay attention to your skin’s reaction and reduce frequency if you notice any irritation.
4. Don’t Forget Blotting Papers – Use Them Correctly
Blotting papers are a handy tool for managing shine throughout the day. Keep blotting papers with you and use them to gently absorb excess oil as needed. The key is to gently press the paper against your skin and hold it for a few seconds to absorb the oil. Avoid rubbing or wiping the paper across your face, as this can spread oil to other areas and disrupt your makeup. Blotting papers are designed for quick touch-ups to reduce shine without drying out your skin.
5. Don’t Touch Your Face Unnecessarily
It’s a common habit, but touching your face throughout the day can transfer dirt, oil, and bacteria from your hands to your face. This transfer can contribute to clogged pores and breakouts. Be mindful of how often you touch your face. Try to only touch your face when you are cleansing, moisturizing, or applying sunscreen or makeup, and always ensure your hands are clean before doing so.
Conclusion
Managing oily skin is about consistent, gentle care and making informed choices about the products you use. By incorporating these dermatologist-recommended do’s and don’ts into your daily skincare routine, you can effectively control oiliness, reduce breakouts, and achieve healthier-looking skin. Remember that everyone’s skin is unique. If you continue to struggle with oily skin, or if you are concerned about acne or other skin issues, consulting a board-certified dermatologist is always the best step. A dermatologist can provide personalized advice and treatment plans tailored to your specific skin needs. You can find a board-certified dermatologist near you through the American Academy of Dermatology website.
Written by: Brooke Schleehauf
Reviewed by: Ata Moshiri, MD, MPH, FAAD; Roopal Vashi Kundu, MD, FAAD; William Warren Kwan, MD, FAAD; Sanna Ronkainen, MD, FAAD; Omolara Olowoyeye, MD, FAAD; Desmond Shipp, MD, FAAD; Darrell S. Rigel, MD, FAAD
Last updated: 9/3/24
