Clogged pores, excessive oiliness & acne

Skin troubles like clogged/enlarged pores, acne breakouts, and blackheads are all a part of an unwanted package deal for inherently oily skin types. Today’s challenge for a healthy skincare routine is finding the equilibrium between too much sebum production and preserving the skin’s natural moisture content.

Oily skin can be caused by a combination of factors such as -

  • genetics
  • humidity
  • high glycemic diets
  • stress
  • lack of hydration

At the core, oily skin is caused by the excessive production of oil by the sebaceous glands present in the skin resulting in a greasy appearance and ultimately causing acne breakouts and clogged pores.

However, striking a balance between suitable skincare products coupled with oily skin-specific formulations and healthy lifestyle habits can prove really beneficial in regulating excessive sebum production, retaining optimum hydration content, and balancing out the skin’s pH levels.

5 tops ways to regulate/minimize oil for oily skin type

1. Get habitual of washing your face, twice a day

Regularly washing your face, early in the morning and before going to bed is one of the best and simplest strategies to control oily skin and associated skin troubles like excess sebum production, dirt, germs, and other environmental aggressors. Opt for a cleanser that has mild cleansing action alongside these below-mentioned properties -

  • Sulphate-free
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Soap-free
  • pH balanced

Always remember to cleanse your skin in soft circular motions.

2. Inculcate green tea into your skin routine

In addition to being a rich antioxidant, green tea can effectively treat oily skin. It contains certain biomolecules that are scientifically known to regulate sebum production, fight infection, remove excess oil and dirt, and prevent acne breakouts

3. Say hello to an everyday alcohol-free toner

An alcohol-free toner is a must, after a good cleansing ritual. They are most effective for oily and sensitive skin types and help control enlarged pores, maintain skin pH levels, and downregulate excess sebum production. In addition, it improves skin tone, boosts hydration, and reduces the appearance of enlarged pores giving out a smooth skin texture.

4. Do not skip the moisturising routine

Make sure you do not skip using a moisturiser, despite having an oily skin type as it plays a very critical role in regulating oil production in the skin. Applying moisturiser helps regulate the sebaceous glands that might get hyperactive when deprived of hydration layering. Go in for moisturisers enriched in niacinamide, ceramides, and AHA’s, and make sure your moisturiser has the following properties-

  • Non-comedogenic
  • Attenuates inflammation and redness
  • Promotes strengthening of collagen fibers
  • Boosts hydration

5. Avoid direct sun exposure

Unprotected sun exposure has the potential to exacerbate acne in those who already have an oily T-zone and further trigger the unwanted loop of acne breakouts. The application of a mattifying low-penetrating sunscreen is extremely essential for acne-prone or oily skin types as they do not trigger oil production causing clogged pores and skin redness/itchiness. Make sure your sunscreen has the following properties to attain visible results-

  • PA+++ Broad Spectrum and SPF 50
  • Water Resistant and Oxybenzone free
  • Enriched with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide
  • Organic sunscreen Filters
Specific ingredients recommended by dermatologists for oily skin type people

A good skincare regime for any skin type starts by cleansing followed by toning, moisturising, and application of a suitable sunscreen. However, imagine products that contain state-of-the-art formulations with skin-specific ingredients all focused to regulate oily skin types to prevent acne pits, scars, clogged pores, and breakouts.

Here’s what Dr. Aseem, Consultant Dermatologist, Mumbai, and Medical Advisor, Re’equil suggests for managing excess oiliness -

  • Niacinamide - Helps in reducing excessive oil production and prevents the onset of blemishes, dark spots, and acne pits.

  • Zinc PCA - Known to effectively reduce sebum production and the appearance of blackheads.

  • Witch hazel and tea tree oil - It maintains the skin's pH levels by removing extra oils from the skin and adjusting pore size giving out a firmer and bright skin texture and tone.

  • Ivy leaf extract - It is a perfect emollient that ameliorates inflammation from acne pits, and breakouts and helps restore hydration levels.

  • Cydonia oblonga leaf extract - This extract has anti-inflammatory properties that pacify irritated/ damaged skin by strengthening the skin barrier and retaining healthy oils present in the skin matrix.

  • Madecassoside - Madecassoside regulates the skin's normal production of hyaluronic acid and promotes the synthesis of type III collagen, which has both skin-healing and anti-ageing properties.

FAQs
1. What kinds of food should be avoided to prevent excessive oil production and eventual acne breakouts?

Diet plays a crucial role in regulating oil production in the skin. Intake of saturated foods can cause skin inflammation. Always be conscious of your diet as it has a direct impact on the skin. Some foods that can be avoided are-

  • Omega-6 fatty acids, which are abundant in fried foods, might aggravate skin conditions.
  • Red meats and trans fats.
  • Drinking alcohol can dehydrate and dry up your skin. As a result, oil production may increase to make up for the water loss.
  • Dairy products stimulate the sebaceous glands producing more oil.
  • Salty snacks and excessive sugar
2. Can having an oily skin type be beneficial?

It is a fact that oily skin types deal with issues like clogged pores and acne breakouts. However, oily skin also offers a range of advantages such as-

  • Skin is naturally nourished with oil giving out a radiant, smooth supple, and hydrated skin tone.
  • Oily skin becomes more resistant to wrinkles and premature signs of aging.
  • It helps get rid of dry, dull, and flakey skin, naturally.
  • It serves as a natural shield from harsh UV rays and air pollution.
3. Are there any lifestyle changes that can help with oily skin?

Yes, maintaining a healthy diet, staying hydrated, managing stress levels, and avoiding harsh or irritating skincare products can all help to improve oily skin. Additionally, using a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser and avoiding over-cleansing can help to balance the skin's natural oils.