Skincare Tips for Oily Skin

Finding the right skincare can be a daunting process. Everyone has different complexions - whether that be dry, oily, or combination skin - and there’s never a one-fits-all fix. However, the skincare industry has continuously researched and developed formulas for us all and we’re lucky to have numerous products available to tailor to a range of skin conditions.

While oily skin can be a factor in acne, it also has benefits like thicker skin and fewer wrinkles. This skin type may come with its own set of challenges, but with the right knowledge, products, and habits, you can manage it effectively.

Follow a Consistent Skincare Routine

•⁠ ⁠Cleanse Gently: For oily skin, look at using a gel or foaming cleanser that removes oil without stripping the skin. Look for ingredients like salicylic acid, charcoal, or witch hazel.

•⁠ ⁠Exfoliate Weekly: Incorporate chemical exfoliants (like BHA or AHA) to unclog pores and reduce dead skin buildup. Salicylic acid is particularly effective for oily skin.

•⁠ ⁠Moisturise Smartly: Opt for oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturisers that hydrate without clogging pores.

•⁠ ⁠Protect with SPF: Use sunscreen daily (SPF 30 or higher) to prevent potential post-acne marks and protect your skin from UV damage.

Use Targeted Ingredients and Treatments

•⁠ ⁠Retinoids: Promote cell turnover and help prevent clogged pores.

•⁠ ⁠Benzoyl Peroxide: Fights acne-causing bacteria and reduces inflammation.

•⁠ ⁠Niacinamide: A powerhouse that regulates oil production, soothes the skin, and improves texture.

•⁠ ⁠Spot Treatments: Look for ingredients like sulphur or tea tree oil to calm active breakouts.

Choose the Right Toner

Toners can work wonders for oily skin if you choose the right one. Look for toners that:

•⁠ ⁠Unclog Pores & Exfoliate: Toners with salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or lactic acid help exfoliate and even out skin tone.

•⁠ ⁠Soothe & Control Oil: Ingredients like green tea, witch hazel, and niacinamide reduce oiliness and calm inflammation.

•⁠ ⁠Tighten Pores: Look for combinations of niacinamide, adenosine, and glycerin for visibly reduced pores and balanced hydration.

Balance Your Hormones Naturally

While skincare products can work wonders, you should also look at internal adjustments as your hormones also influence the amount of oil (sebum) your skin produces.

Diet Tweaks:

•⁠ ⁠Limit sugar, dairy, and processed foods which can trigger excess oil and inflammation.

•⁠ ⁠Add more leafy greens, berries, salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds to your meals.

Supplements:

•⁠ ⁠Zinc supports skin healing and reduces inflammation.

•⁠ ⁠Omega-3 fatty acids help regulate oil production.

•⁠ ⁠Spearmint tea may help lower androgen levels in some individuals.

•⁠ ⁠Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water supports your skin’s natural detox process.

Managing Stress to Calm Your Skin:

Chronic stress elevates cortisol levels, which can worsen oil production, and hormonal acne.

Try integrating meditation, yoga, or regular exercise into your lifestyle to help manage stress naturally.

Explore Medical Treatments (If Needed)

If home remedies aren’t cutting it, medical options may be worth considering:

•⁠ ⁠Birth Control Pills: Certain oral contraceptives can help regulate hormones and reduce acne.

•⁠ ⁠Spironolactone: Blocks androgens to control oil production (especially effective in adult female acne).

•⁠ ⁠Isotretinoin (Accutane): A powerful option for severe acne, but only under medical supervision.

•⁠ ⁠Hormonal Therapy: For acne linked to PCOS or other hormonal conditions, consult a healthcare professional.

Watch Out for Skin Irritants

•⁠ ⁠Skip harsh scrubs and overly drying products as they can irritate the skin and worsen oiliness. If your skin is having a negative reaction to a certain product, ditch it.

•⁠ ⁠Avoid touching your face and picking at pimples, as this leads to scarring and more breakouts.

•⁠ ⁠Use lightweight, non-comedogenic makeup that won’t clog your pores.

Embrace the Journey

Treating oily and hormonal acne-prone skin is a long game, in which you’ll find yourself trying and testing out a lot of products. Most hormonal treatments for hormonal acne-prone skin will take between 6-12 weeks to show noticeable results.

So, stick to your routine, listen to your skin, and don’t hesitate to seek help from a dermatologist for a tailored approach.

Dr. Ed Robinson offers a range of skincare treatments, all individually tailored to your skincare needs!

Give us a call on 0161 399 0631 or Book Now using the button below.