Oily skin can be a major source of frustration for many fighting to keep breakouts and shine under control. Luckily, you can take several simple steps to manage your oil levels throughout the day and have clearer, smoother skin in no time. From regular cleansing regimes to special treatments with natural ingredients, managing oily skin is easier than ever – all it takes is a little experimentation and dedication!
In this blog post, we will unpack the best solutions that anyone can implement today to see positive results from their efforts against oily skin. Read on if you're ready for brighter, smoother days ahead!
How to Control Oily Skin
Cleanse Regularly
Cleansing your face daily with a gentle cleanser suitable for oily skin is crucial to controlling breakouts and shine. Choose a non-comedogenic, pH-balanced, and formulated with natural ingredients like aloe vera or tea tree oil to keep your skin hydrated while removing excess oils. Avoid using harsh soaps or astringents, as these can strip away the natural oils from your skin and cause irritation over time.
To keep your skin looking and feeling fresh, cleanse twice daily - once in the morning and once at night. Doing so will help remove any dirt or bacteria that have settled on your skin during the day and any makeup or oils you may have added throughout the day. Use lukewarm water when cleansing and follow up with a gentle toner if needed.
.
Exfoliate
Gently exfoliating once or twice a week will also help remove stubborn build-up from product residue without aggravating the delicate balance of oils on your skin. Use products specially designed for oily skin that contain alpha hydroxy acids or other gentle exfoliating agents like lactic acid. Apply a moisturizer after exfoliation for added hydration and protection against further oil production.
Use Natural Ingredients
Many natural ingredients can help control oily skin breakouts and shine. Apple cider vinegar, witch hazel, and tea tree oil are some of the most effective at reducing inflammation and controlling excess oils without stripping away moisture. Add these ingredients to your face mask routine or create a DIY toner by combining them in equal parts with water - make sure to do a patch test beforehand!
Mix a teaspoon of bentonite clay with a small amount of witch hazel and apple cider vinegar for an overnight mask. Leave this mixture on your face for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off with warm water. This will help draw out any excess oils while leaving your skin refreshed and hydrated. You can also add a few drops of tea tree oil to your nighttime moisturizer for added benefits against breakouts and shine.
Avoid Greasy Foods
Eating foods high in fats and oils can cause an increase in sebum production, leading to more breakouts and shine. Avoid greasy foods in your diet when possible, and opt for lighter meals instead - think fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and complex carbs.
Incorporating healthy fats like avocados, nuts, seeds, and wild-caught fish into your meals can also help regulate oil production in the skin. Omega-3 fatty acids have been found to reduce inflammation and promote a healthier complexion overall.
Try to limit processed foods as much as possible, opting for wholesome alternatives instead. Eating lots of sugar will stimulate oil glands further - stick to naturally sweetened snacks like fresh fruits or dried fruit without added sugars. Also, avoid dairy products as much as possible, as they can increase sebum production and worsen oily skin conditions.
Wear Sunscreen
It may seem counterintuitive, but sunscreen is very important for controlling oily skin. It helps protect against sun damage which can cause an increase in oil production, so make sure to wear a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every day!
Change Your Pillowcase
The oils from your skin can build up on your pillowcase, and come into contact with you as you sleep. To prevent this, change or wash your pillowcases at least once weekly to keep breakouts and shine under control.
Use Oil-Absorbing Powders
Oil-absorbing powders such as kaolin clay or cornstarch can keep your skin matte and shine-free throughout the day. Apply a thin layer over makeup or directly onto clean skin for an extra boost of oil control. These powders are highly absorbent and help draw out excess oils without leaving behind a cakey residue.
Kaolin clay is particularly beneficial for oily skin as it helps to absorb impurities while also balancing the natural oils on the surface of your skin. It can act like a magnet, attracting and binding excess sebum and surface oils while promoting smoother, clearer skin. For added benefits, you can mix kaolin clay with potent ingredients like witch hazel or aloe vera for a DIY face mask!
Drink More Water
Staying hydrated is key to keeping your skin clear and healthy, so drink plenty of water throughout the day! The recommended amount is eight 8-ounce glasses daily, which may vary depending on your needs. Water helps flush out toxins contributing to breakouts and keeps your skin supple and hydrated.
Drinking water also helps reduce inflammation, which is important for people with oily skin as it prevents the overproduction of sebum. You can also add other liquids like herbal teas or coconut water if you need more inspired by plain water - just check the labels for added sugars or artificial sweeteners!
If you struggle to drink enough water, there are a few tricks you can employ to help ease the transition. Set daily reminders on your phone, carry a reusable bottle wherever you go, or try infusing your drinks with fruit slices for extra flavor. You can even
Talk to Your Dermatologist
If you’ve tried all of the above and still have difficulty managing your oily skin, it may be time to talk to a dermatologist about more intensive products or treatments. They can help recommend the best solutions for your unique situation and get you on track for clearer, healthier skin in no time!
Anyone can successfully control their oily skin by following these simple steps and experimenting with different routines. From regular cleansing regimes to special treatments with natural ingredients, keeping breakouts and shine at bay is easier than ever – all it takes is a bit of dedication and experimentation!
FAQs
How do you get rid of oily skin naturally?
Several natural ingredients can help reduce excess oils. Apple cider vinegar, witch hazel, and tea tree oil are some of the most effective at reducing inflammation and controlling excess oils without stripping away moisture. Eating foods high in healthy fats like avocados, nuts and seeds, and wild-caught fish can also help regulate oil production in the skin.
How often should you wash your face if you have oily skin?
Washing your face twice daily - once in the morning and again before bed is generally advised. Any more than this can strip away the naturally occurring oils on your skin, which may lead to further irritation or breakouts. Be sure to use a gentle cleanser for oily skin and lukewarm water when washing.
What is the best moisturizer for oily skin?
Look for a lightweight, oil-free formula that won’t clog your pores or leave behind greasy residue. Ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, salicylic acid, and glycerin benefit oily skin types as they help hydrate without adding unnecessary oils. Opting for an SPF moisturizer will provide additional protection against sun damage.
Conclusion
Controlling oily skin doesn't have to be complicated - with the right routine and products, you can easily reduce breakouts, shine, and achieve a smoother complexion. From using natural ingredients like apple cider vinegar and witch hazel to avoiding greasy foods, anyone can manage their oily skin with simple steps that are easy to incorporate into their daily regimen.
