There is a variety of factors influencing the oiliness of the skin. You may have oily skin because you are genetically predisposed. Poor diet, especially red meat, dairy products and sugary foods can lead to the overproduction of sebum in the skin. Hormonal imbalances can also reflect in the skin. Under stress, our body overproduces androgen triggering sebum production. Finally, poor sleep as well as unsuitable cosmetics can make your skin oily. It is highly important to understand the reasons behind the skin condition in order to know how to treat it.
The first thing you should do is to cut back on sugary foods as they have a high glycemic index. Foods with a high glycemic index raise blood glucose more rapidly than foods with a low glycemic index. The higher the insulin levels, the more acnes you can expect. Avoid simple carbohydrates found in white bread, candies, fried food, fruit juice, pasta, ketchup, cream cheese, jam, pizza… Opt for complex carbohydrates found in fruit, nuts and whole grains.
The same thing applies to dairy products as they raise androgen levels causing the overproduction of sebum. Eat only healthy dietary fat, including monounsaturated fatty acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids and Omega-3 fatty acids. Antioxidant-rich foods, such as strawberries, raspberries, red beans and prunes decrease the amount of inflammation, which decreases acne flares.
Products with drying, or irritating ingredients, including menthol, mint, eucalyptus, lemon and alcohol are not recommended for oily skin as they will only make your skin more oily. Do not use products in solid forms, such as creams and soaps and choose liquid, serum, or gel formulations instead.
Start your skincare routine by washing your face with lukewarm water and a gentle fragrance free cleanser without dry cleansing agents, such as sodium lauryl sulfate. For example, one of the ASAP skin products is a soap-free cleansing gel containing soothing Aloe Vera, ideal for oily skin. Opt for an alcohol-free toner after you have washed the face. Oil-free gels and serums will provide your skin with hydration. Exfoliation should be the most important part of your weekly skincare routine. Choose exfoliants with salicylic acid since they exfoliate the deeper layers of skin and since they have anti-inflammatory properties. Look for sunscreens created for oily skin. They have matte finish and minimize oil production.
Since make-up seems to slide off your face and your face even with make-up appears greasy, you should apply an oil-free primer first. The primer will help your make-up stay put. At least, apply the primer on the T-zone. Choose an oil-free foundation with SPF in order to avoid applying a sunscreen. The less products on oily skin, the better. Do not overdo with the face powder. Apply the matte powder just on the shiny areas of the face. You can consider mineral powders as they are excellent in removing excess oil. A matte blush is recommended, as well. Always carry blotting sheets as you spot shine after several hours no matter how matte your make-up was.
Finally, exercise regularly. You will feel freshened up, stress-free and you will get rid of oily skin once and for all.
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