Tips & Products for an Oily Skin

Oily skin is a skin type characterised by an overproduction of sebum, the skin’s natural oil. Sebum is produced by the sebaceous glands, which are located in the skin’s dermis. Oily skin tends to have a shiny or greasy appearance and can be prone to issues like enlarged pores, blackheads, and acne.

Key features of an oily skin

• The excess sebum can clog and enlarge pores, making them more visible
• Oily skin is more prone to developing acne, including whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples
• Makeup may have a tendency to wipe off the skin more quickly due to the excess oil
• Oily skin can be influenced by genetics and hormones, and it is more common during puberty and adolescence

Treatment tips that can help with oily skin

• Factors like humidity and heat can exacerbate the oiliness of the skin
• Exfoliate with a gentle exfoliator 1-2 times a week to remove dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores
• Apply a clay mask once a week to absorb excess sebum production
• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a non-greasy formula to protect your skin from sun damage
• Touching your face with dirty hands can transfer dirt and bacteria, which can worsen breakouts
• Washing your face too frequently can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to irritant contact dermatitis

Skincare ingredients that can help with oily skin

• Mandelic Acid
• Salicylic Acid
• Extracts of Myrrh
• Tea Tree Oil
• Salicylic Acid
• Glycolic Acid

Skincare products that can help with oily skin

Some cleansers for oily skin contain ingredients that help balance the skin’s natural oil production. By controlling excessive oiliness, these cleansers contribute to a more balanced and less shiny complexion. Dr Webster recommends:

• MartiDerm Acniover Purifying Gel
• Lamelle Clarity Active Cleanse

Even after cleansing, some impurities may still be present on the skin. Toners help to remove these remaining traces of dirt, makeup, or pollutants. Dr Webster recommends:

• Obagi CLENZIderm Pore Therapy
• SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Toner

Oily skin tends to accumulate more dead skin cells on its surface, leading to clogged pores and a dull complexion. Exfoliators help to remove these dead skin cells, revealing fresher, brighter skin underneath. Dr Webster recommends:

• ZO Skin Health Oil Control Pads
• Hyaestic BHA 2% Pore Refining

Masks provide a deeper cleansing action compared to regular cleansing routines. They can reach into the pores and help remove dirt, dead skin cells, and other debris that may contribute to clogged pores and breakouts. Dr Webster recommends:

• mesoestetic pure renewing mask
• Dermaceutic Mask 15

Serums are typically lightweight and fast-absorbing, making them suitable for oily skin. They don’t leave a greasy or heavy feeling on the skin, which is ideal for those with excess oil production. Dr Webster recommends:

• MartiDerm Acniover Serum
• SkinCeuticals Silymarin CF

When the skin lacks moisture, it may overcompensate by producing more oil to keep itself hydrated. By using a lightweight, non-greasy moisturiser, you can provide adequate hydration without triggering excess oil production. Dr Webster recommends:

• Huxley Fresh and More Cream
• NeoStrata® Sheer Hydration SPF 40

Some sunscreens are formulated to have a matte finish, which can help control shine and excess oil on the skin’s surface. Dr Webster recommends:

• Heliocare 360° Gel Oil-free SPF 50
• La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMUNE 400 Oil Control Gel-Cream SPF 50+