7 Ways to Get Oily Skin Under Control

Oily skin can be both a boon and a bane; on the upside, people with oily skin type tend to be less prone to wrinkles and fine lines. On the downside, if not managed properly, it can cause clogged pores and breakout. The good news is, it’s totally possible to get oily skin under control!

Why does skin become oily? 

The body’s sebaceous glands produce sebum (oil) which keeps our skin moisturized and helps maintain our moisture barrier. However, there are some people who have an overactive sebaceous gland, thus producing excess sebum which can make them appear greasy and often cause acne breakouts. 

There are many factors that can cause the production of excess sebum. It can be due to  genetics, hormonal change, a poor diet, using skincare products that do not fit your skin, or even over washing/over exfoliating  your face. 

How can you tell if you have oily skin? 

People with oily skin type usually experience the following: 

• Prone to breakouts 

• Enlarged pores 

• Shiny/greasy look 

• Makeup doesn’t stay in place

I have oily skin, now what? 

If you have oily skin and it’s causing you great distress, here are 7 ways to get oily skin under control and get your life back: 

1. Cleanse your face.

Now don’t go crazy and scrub your face off with the first cleanser you get your hands on. Opt for a cleanser that is gentle on the skin, yet effective in removing the excess oil from your face. 

Avoid products that contain alcohol, sulphates, and other skin-stripping ingredients. The blog post “Understanding How Our Skin Works” explains how our skin works semi-independently to preserve and protect itself so when we strip all the sebum away, this will trigger the skin to produce excess sebum. 

Remember, the oil our body produces also helps protect our skin. We don’t want to get rid of all the oils from our skin, we just need to get it under control. 

Spalina Skincare’s Biotic Mangosteen Cleanse is the perfect cleanser for oily skin as it clarifies and gently exfoliates the skin. It also prevents breakouts.

2. Don’t exclude moisturizer and serum from your skincare routine. 

One common misconception is that if you have oily skin, you don’t need moisturizers and serums. That couldn’t be farther from the truth. In fact, dehydrated skin is also a common concern of people with oily skin type, especially those who use harsh skincare products that strips the skin of moisture.    

You see, while dry skin lacks in water and oil, dehydrated skin lacks in water, and overcompensates by producing excess sebum. 

Choose moisturizers that are lightweight and oil-free such as Spalina Skincare’s Weightless Probiotic Defense Cream. This moisturizing cream is hydrating, oil-free, and designed to heal chapped, dehydrated skin by protecting and repairing its natural barrier. 

As for serums, go for something that is also lightweight and water-based like Spalina Skincare’s Epidermal Repair serum which is an amazing serum for oily skin type because it controls oil production, shrinks pores, and evens out the skin tone. 

3. Don’t forget your sunscreen. 

Sunscreen is a very important skincare step that you shouldn’t be missing out on. Same with choosing a moisturizer, go for a mineral sunscreen that is lightweight. Spalina Skincare carries two types of sunscreens: Hydrating Mineral Zinc Oxide SPF 40 and Mineral Tinted SPF 40 if you want to cut down on time getting ready.  

4. Invest in good oil control makeup. 

Choose non-comedogenic makeup products that are mattifying and oil-free so your makeup doesn’t “slide off” halfway through the day. Arm yourself with blotting papers too especially if you don’t like to be constantly powdering your T-zone.

5. Keep your hands off your face. 

I think this goes without saying, especially during these trying times. But yes, aside from cleansing your face and applying skincare with your hands, you shouldn’t be touching your face because this can transfer bacteria and even more oil to your face, clogging up your pores and causing breakout. 

6. Eat a healthy diet. 

If you have oily skin, one of the causes could be in your diet. If you can, avoid sugar, refined carbs, and dairy because these types of food can actually increase oil production and cause breakout. 

I know this is easier said than done, but committing to a healthier diet will greatly help in controlling oily skin. Don’t know where to start? This guide can help you. 

7. Relax.

Stress can also trigger excess sebum production so try to keep your stress level in check. You can reduce stress by exercising regularly, practicing yoga and meditation, or simply having some downtime where you can either curl up with a good book or unwind by watching your favorite series. 

Another form of relaxation is visiting an esthetician and getting a facial treatment that addresses your skin concern. 

And if you’re looking for a total skin transformation, Spela Hernandez is a licensed esthetician with over 15 years of experience helping women achieve their absolute best skin. You can book an online consultation here.