Oily Skin : Symptoms, Cause and How to Treat It
Oily skin is simply skin that produces more sebum than normal. Everyone has some oil on their face, but with oily skin the glands in the skin go into overdrive. This excess oil often makes your skin look and feel shiny. You might notice yourself using several blotting sheets in a single day, or feeling that your face is greasy only a few hours after washing.
The extra oil can also trap dead skin cells in your pores. When oil and dead cells mix, they form plugs that show up as blackheads or whiteheads and pimples. n other words, oily skin is often linked with more acne breakouts. While oily skin can feel like a nuisance, it also has some upsides: people with oily skin tend to develop wrinkles more slowly, and oil helps protect the skin’s moisture barrier. But most people want to control oily skin to reduce shine and breakouts, while still keeping skin healthy.
Common Symptoms of Oily Skin
- Shiny or greasy sheen on the face, especially in the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin). You might notice your skin looks glossy even right after washing.
- Large, visible pores, especially around the nose and cheeks. Excess oil can stretch pores and make them look bigger.
- Blackheads and clogged pores. The extra sebum easily mixes with dead skin cells, clogging pores and leading to blackheads.
- Frequent breakouts or pimples. Oily skin is prone to acne because bacteria and debris get trapped under the skin.
- Makeup that slides off. If you wear foundation or powder, you may find it wears off quickly as it mixes with skin oil.
If you’re spotting these signs, constant shine, easy clogging, or greasy feel, you likely have an oily skin type. The good news is that with the right routine and products, you can treat oily skin and minimize these symptoms.
Causes of Oily Skin
Oily skin can have several underlying causes. Often it’s a mix of factors:
- Genetics: If one or both of your parents have oily skin, your skin is likely to make more oil too.
- Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations — during puberty, the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause — can increase sebum production. This is why teenagers often have very oily skin. Adult women may also notice oiliness rise just before their period. Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can also trigger oily skin and acne.
- Skincare Routine: Ironically, using the wrong skincare routines or products can increase oiliness. Over-washing or scrubbing the face too aggressively removes oil, causing the glands to “compensate” by pumping out even more sebum. . Using heavy, oil-based moisturizers or makeup can also make skin oilier. Finding gentle, appropriate products is key.
- Lifestyle: Stress and lack of sleep can reduce skin hydration.
- Climate and Season: Hot, humid weather makes skin oilier. Many people find their skin is especially shiny in summer or in tropical climates. The sweat and humidity stimulate the glands, whereas drier winter weather can reduce oiliness.
How to Treat Oily Skin
Many over-the-counter products combine these ingredients. When you read labels, prioritize salicylic acid and niacinamide for oil control. Also remember simpler care: avoid alcohol or harsh astringents that can irritate and trigger more oil.
Recommended Skincare Products for Oily Skin
Remember
When choosing skincare products, look for those specifically designed for oily and acne-prone skin. Here are some recommendations:
