Why Is My Skin So Oily?

Each individual possesses a certain amount of oil on their skin. Beneath every pore lies a sebaceous gland that generates a natural lubricant known as sebum, which hydrates and nourishes the skin. Nonetheless, the glands may often generate an excessive amount of oil, resulting in oily skin.

It is easy to identify oily skin if your complexion appears shiny, and you must use multiple blotting sheets each day. In addition, your skin may feel greasy soon after cleansing. Oily skin can lead to acne since sebum mixes with dead skin cells and accumulates in your pores. Various factors, including genetics, climate, and lifestyle, contribute to oily skin. Although not curable, you can reduce oiliness by pinpointing the root cause. 

Today, I’ll discuss the causes of oily skin and effective tips to control the skin oil.

Causes Of Oily Skin

T-zone is particularly prone to excess oiliness due to a higher density of sebaceous glands, which are responsible for producing sebum, your skin’s natural oil. The T-zone refers to the central part of your face, including your forehead, nose, and chin. However, these seven fundamental causes can help you in your endeavour.

Genetics

It is common for oily skin to have a genetic connection. Should one or both of your parents have excessive oil production, there is a high likelihood that you, too, will experience the same condition due to overactive sebaceous glands.

Age

Although oily skin may persist, the production of sebum decreases with age. The sebaceous glands slow down as the skin loses protein, including collagen. As a result, many individuals with ageing skin experience dryness. Fine lines and wrinkles become more noticeable due to the reduced levels of collagen and sebum during this period. The younger you are, the more likely you are to have oily skin.

Environment and Seasons

Although genetics and age play a significant role in causing oily skin, factors such as geographical location and seasonal changes can also contribute to it. Research indicates that individuals residing in hot and humid areas tend to have oilier skin. Additionally, during summer, people are more likely to experience oily skin compared to fall and winter. Moving to a different location may not be feasible, but adopting a daily routine to manage high humidity levels can be helpful.

Enlarged Pores

At times, your skin pores may expand because of factors such as aging, weight changes, and past acne breakouts. Furthermore, larger pores can result in more sebum production. While it is impossible to shrink your pores, you can opt for extra care by regularly blotting enlarged pores on your face throughout the day.

Ineffective Skin Care Products

Using improper skincare products can cause oily skin, particularly when wrongly identifying skin type and applying heavy creams. During the winter months, when skin is typically drier, a skincare routine change is often necessary, opting for lighter moisturizers and gel-based cleansers in the spring and summer. With the correct skincare products, excessive oil buildup on your face can effectively be addressed.

Too Much Skin Care

Washing and exfoliating your skin too much can ironically lead to more oil production. By removing too much oil, your skin’s sebaceous glands can go into overdrive and produce even more oil. To prevent this, limit cleansing to twice a day. Additionally, skipping sunscreen can dry out your skin and cause an increase in sebum production. Protect your skin from the sun by wearing sunscreen every day. Some moisturizers and foundations that contain sunscreen tend to be less oily but may still need to be reapplied throughout the day.

Lack of Moisturizer

It is a common misconception that moisturizer contributes to oily skin. In truth, if you are using acne treatments like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, a good moisturizer is essential to prevent dryness. Every skin type is prone to drying out without moisturizer, so the key is to choose the right one. Opt for lightweight water-based moisturizers, and use them as the last step after cleansing and toning. To keep pores clear, select products that are labelled as “oil-free” and “non-comedogenic.”

Effective Skincare Routine Tips For Oily Skin

Managing oily skin can be challenging, but you can achieve a healthy and radiant complexion with the right skincare routine. By following these steps and using suitable products, you can control excess oil, minimize blemishes, and maintain a fresh, matte look.

Gentle Cleansing

Start your skincare routine with a cleanser formulated for oily or acne-prone skin. Cleansing your face twice daily, in the morning and evening, helps remove excess oil, dirt, and impurities without over-drying your skin. Look for salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to combat acne and unclog pores.

Exfoliation

Exfoliating oily skin removes dead skin cells that clog pores and cause breakouts. Use a mild exfoliator with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) 2-3 times a week to promote skin cell turnover. Avoid aggressive scrubbing, as it irritates the skin and increases oil production.

Use a Toner

A toner can help balance the skin’s pH levels and control excess oil production. Look for a toner containing witch hazel, niacinamide, or tea tree oil. These ingredients can help tighten pores and reduce the appearance of oiliness.

Oil-Free Moisturizer

It is a common misconception that oily skin does not require hydration. However, even oily skin needs proper hydration. Opt for an oil-free, lightweight moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated without adding extra oil. Look for moisturizers that contain hyaluronic acid or glycerin to lock in moisture and maintain a matte finish.

Sun Protection

Don’t skip sunscreen, even if you have oily skin. Choose a broad-spectrum, non-comedogenic sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Sunscreen protects against harmful UV rays, preventing ageing and damage.

Targeted Treatments

To manage acne breakouts effectively and regulate oil production, it’s recommended to include targeted treatments such as serums or spot treatments. These oily skin treatments should contain salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide ingredients. After cleansing your skin, apply these treatments, followed by your moisturizer. Regularly using these treatments can help reduce the occurrence of acne breakouts and keep your skin looking healthy.

Oil-Blotting Papers

To keep your face looking fresh and oil-free, it’s a good idea to carry oil-blotting papers with you. These papers are specially designed to gently absorb excess oil from the skin without disturbing your makeup. It’s important to avoid using tissue or makeup to blot, as this can worsen your skin’s oil production and cause your makeup to become smudged or uneven. So, stick to oil-blotting papers for a quick and easy touch-up throughout the day.

Avoid Overwashing

Maintaining clean skin is crucial, but it’s equally important to do just what is necessary. When you wash your face excessively, you risk removing natural oils, which can cause a rebound effect and lead to oilier skin. To avoid this, it’s best to stick to a recommended cleansing routine that will keep your skin healthy and balanced.

Maintain a Healthy Diet

A balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, and antioxidants can contribute to healthier skin. Avoid excessive consumption of greasy or sugary foods, which can exacerbate oiliness and acne.

Hydration and Stress Management

It’s crucial to prioritize staying hydrated throughout the day by drinking plenty of water. Additionally, incorporating stress-reduction techniques like yoga or meditation into your daily skincare routine can be highly beneficial. This is because stress can cause hormonal changes that increase oil production in our skin, potentially leading to breakouts and other skin issues. You can maintain healthy, radiant skin by taking care of your body both inside and out.

Sumlab Product To Manage OilY Skin

Ultimately, the key to managing oily skin is finding the right balance. With the right understanding and knowledge, you can effectively reduce oily skin. At Summers Laboratories, we know that oily skin is an unfortunate condition many suffer from. 

We offer Sebasorb Oil Absorbing Lotion to help combat oily skin. Say goodbye to oil-induced shiny areas with Sebasorb oil-absorbing lotion. This gentle formula harnesses the power of attapulgite, nature’s oil absorbent, to effectively control oil and prevent shine for hours. Whether you use it on your face or body, it dries clear and leaves no residue. So go ahead confidently and face the day with Sebasorb oil-absorbing lotion.

Conclusion

Creating an effective skincare routine for oily skin involves finding the right balance between controlling excess oil and maintaining skin health. Following these tips and choosing suitable products can help you achieve a clearer, more radiant complexion and keep oily skin concerns at bay.

Can hormonal changes affect oily skin?

Yes, hormone changes, such as puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause, can influence oil production. Hormonal imbalances may lead to increased sebum production and can be managed with the help of a dermatologist.

Should I avoid moisturizing if I have oily skin?

No, it’s essential to moisturize even if you have oily skin. A lightweight, oil-free, or gel-based moisturizer can help balance your skin’s hydration levels without making it greasier.