Skincare Tips for Oily Skin

Oily skin is characterised by an overproduction of sebum, the skin's natural oil. While sebum plays a crucial role in keeping the skin moisturised and protected, too much of it can lead to shiny skin, clogged pores, and breakouts. Managing oily skin requires a balanced approach to control oil production without over-stripping the skin. With the right skincare routine and practices, you can keep excess oil at bay while maintaining a healthy, clear complexion. Here are essential skincare tips to help you manage oily skin effectively.

Cleanse Twice a Day with a Gentle Cleanser

Cleansing is the cornerstone of any skincare routine, but it’s especially important for those with oily skin. The key is to find a cleanser that effectively removes excess oil and impurities without stripping your skin of its natural moisture barrier. Stripping your skin can cause it to produce even more oil in response, leading to a cycle of increased oil production.

Opt for a gel-based or foaming cleanser that is designed for oily or acne-prone skin. Ingredients like salicylic acid, tea tree oil, or benzoyl peroxide can be beneficial in controlling oil production and preventing breakouts. However, be cautious with overly harsh cleansers, as they can irritate the skin and exacerbate oiliness. Cleansing twice a day — once in the morning and once in the evening — is usually sufficient for oily skin. Over cleansing can be counterproductive and cause more oil production.

Gel based cleansers we adore:

Hydrating Gel Cleanser 150ml by GunkOff Skincare 

Key Skin Benefits of Hydrating Gel Cleanser:

Suitable for all skin types, fragrance free this non-drying, non-stripping cleanser is gentle enough for the delicate eye area. Packed with skin-loving aloe vera and cucumber, it helps to soothe and calm your skin. Cruelty free and vegan.

Squalane Face Cleanser 100ml by Prota Skincare

Key Skin Benefits of The Squalane Face Cleanser:

• Enhances microbiome diversity for healthier skin
• Cleanses dirt, pollution, and makeup without stripping the skin
• Perfect for sensitive and blemish prone skin
• Balances, smooths, and promotes a healthy complexion
• Provides deep, long lasting moisture with 72-hour hydration
• Boosts skin elasticity

Sweet Orange Balancing Cleanser 100ml by Lamav

Use a Toner to Balance the Skin

A toner can help balance your skin's pH levels and remove any residual dirt or oil left after cleansing. For oily skin, look for alcohol-free toners that contain ingredients like witch hazel, salicylic acid, or niacinamide. These ingredients help to tighten pores, reduce oil production, and keep your skin clear without over-drying it.

Niacinamide, in particular, is a great ingredient for oily skin, as it helps regulate sebum production and minimise the appearance of large pores. Incorporating a toner into your routine can also help prepare your skin to better absorb the next steps in your skincare routine, such as serums and moisturisers.

Organic probiotic toner to try:

Probiotic Toner 100ml by Lamav

Incorporate an Exfoliant to Prevent Clogged Pores

Exfoliation is essential for oily skin because it helps to prevent the buildup of dead skin cells that can mix with excess oil and clog pores. This can lead to blackheads, whiteheads, and acne. Chemical exfoliants like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) are particularly effective for oily skin.

BHAs, such as salicylic acid, are oil-soluble, meaning they can penetrate into the pores and remove excess oil and dead skin cells from inside the pore. This helps to clear out congestion and prevent breakouts. AHAs, like glycolic acid, work on the surface of the skin to remove dead skin cells and improve texture.

Exfoliate 1-3 times per week, depending on your skin’s tolerance. Avoid over-exfoliating, as this can irritate your skin and cause an increase in oil production. Always follow up with sunscreen in the morning, as exfoliation can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.

Natural Face Scrubs We Adore:

Aha Face Exfoliant 60ml by Lamav

 

Use a Lightweight, Oil Free Moisturiser for Oily Skin

One of the most common misconceptions about oily skin is that it doesn’t need moisturiser. In reality, all skin types need moisture to stay healthy and balanced, even oily skin. Skipping moisturiser can actually make your skin produce more oil to compensate for the lack of hydration.

Look for lightweight, oil-free, or gel-based moisturisers that provide hydration without clogging pores. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and aloe vera can hydrate the skin without adding excess oil. These water-based moisturisers help maintain your skin’s moisture levels without making it feel greasy or heavy.

Oil Free Moisturiser for Oily Skin We Love:

 

Apply Sunscreen Daily

Sunscreen is a must for all skin types, including oily skin. Skipping sunscreen can lead to sun damage, which not only increases your risk of skin cancer but can also worsen acne and cause premature ageing. The key is to find a sunscreen that won’t clog pores or feel greasy on your skin.

Look for lightweight, oil-free sunscreens that are labelled "non-comedogenic," meaning they won’t block pores. Gel or fluid sunscreens tend to work well for oily skin, as they offer broad-spectrum protection without a heavy or oily finish. Sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are also excellent choices, as they provide protection without causing breakouts.

Natural Sunscreen for Acne Prone and Oily Skin:

Use Oil-Absorbing Products Throughout the Day

If your skin tends to get shiny throughout the day, using oil-absorbing products can help control excess shine. Blotting papers are a convenient, portable solution that can quickly soak up excess oil without disturbing your makeup or skincare. Simply press a blotting sheet onto your skin to absorb the oil without rubbing it in. You can also use mattifying primers or setting powders that help to control oil and keep your skin looking fresh for longer. Look for powders that contain ingredients like silica or kaolin clay, which help absorb oil and keep your complexion matte.

Oil Absorbing Beauty Products Worth a Try:

Babe Blotter Green Tea Blotting Paper

Infused with a powerful trio of Green Tea Extract, Hemp Pulp and Wood Pulp. It zaps sweat, clears clogged pores and banishes oil without disturbing your makeup.

Target Acne with Targeted Ingredients

Oily skin is often more prone to acne, but the good news is that there are plenty of ingredients that can help target and treat breakouts. Look for spot treatments or acne products that contain salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide or sulphur.

Salicylic acid works to exfoliate the inside of the pore, clearing out excess oil and debris. Benzoyl peroxide, on the other hand, kills acne-causing bacteria, helping to reduce inflammation and prevent future breakouts. Sulphur can help dry out active breakouts and reduce oiliness, making it a great option for occasional use.

When using acne treatments, be sure to follow up with a moisturiser to prevent your skin from becoming overly dry, which can lead to more oil production.

Be Consistent with Your Routine

Consistency is key when it comes to managing oily skin. While it can be tempting to try new products frequently, it’s important to stick with a routine for at least a few weeks before determining if it’s working for you. Switching products too often can disrupt your skin’s natural balance and lead to more oil production or breakouts.

Once you’ve found a routine that works, be patient. Oily skin can be tricky to manage, but with the right products and a consistent approach, you can achieve a balanced, clear complexion.

Managing oily skin doesn’t have to be a constant battle. By following a consistent skincare routine that includes gentle cleansing, regular exfoliation, lightweight hydration, and sun protection, you can control excess oil and keep your skin looking fresh and clear. Remember that everyone’s skin is different, so it may take some trial and error to find the perfect routine for you, but with the right tips and ingredients, your oily skin can stay balanced and healthy.

Read More On The VAMS Edit: Best Products for Sensitive Skin: A Guide to Australian Skincare

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