Best Skin Care Routine For Oily Skin

Where To Start?

Glowy skin is trending these days. People buy highlighters to have that special glowing effect. But there are people who don’t have to buy any highlighter because they look like a glazed pastry at the end of the day. Welcome to the oily skin people! This article is going to share a simple and effective skin care routine for oily skin. Before applying anything on your face you should know your skin type. This article is specifically for people with oily skin. First step is to understand what are the basic requirements for developing a skin care routine. These five things are a must have i.e. cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen, exfoliant and masks is explained below below extensively.

• Cleanser

Cleanser is an important step in any skin care routine. For oily skin it is a necessity. You need to use a foaming cleanser twice a day. It should be gentle, preferably without SLS. Don’t go after the ‘squeaky-clean feeling’. Chances are your skin has been stripped of its natural oils. This stripped skin produces more oil to compensate and ultimately makes your skin more oily.  Best cleanser for oily skin is the one which gives you a ‘refreshing-clean feeling’.

Cleanser with salicylic acid or other actives should be used every other day or they can over dry the skin. Since it’s a wash off product you can choose one with fragrance but only if it suits you. In the next post I will share my top favourite cleansers for oily skin.

• Moisturizer

Moisturizer is the second step in skin care. It replenishes and strengthens the skin barrier. While choosing a moisturizer you have to take some things into consideration. Moisturiser is a leave-on product so you have to choose one without fragrance and essential oils. Some essential oils have irritating components in them which can sensitize your skin leading to breakouts. Mild fragrance is okay but it’s just best to steer clear of it.

Another very important factor to consider is ingredients. Moisturizers with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and retinol are ideal. If you have to choose only one ingredient, always choose niacinamide. It’s a holy grail for oily skin. You will thank me later. But these aren’t the only factors to consider. Climate also affects your moisturiser choice. You can’t put on a heavy moisturiser in scorching heat or humidity. You’re going to sweat which will mix with dirt and clog your pores. In hot weather always use a gel based moisturiser. Best moisturizer for oily skin is cold aloe gel.

• Sunscreen

Sunscreen is vital to any skin care routine. You can’t reverse the damage caused by UV rays. No amount of skin care is going to help you if you don’t use sunscreen. The ideal quantity to use is ⅓ or ½ tablespoons. Sunscreen should be applied even on a cloudy day because UVA rays are present even in shade. If you don’t believe me, ask your thriving indoor plants.

While choosing a sunscreen for oily skin there is no right or wrong rule. It’s mostly just personal preference. Some people prefer physical over chemical sunscreens and vice versa. People with oily skin should use gel based sunscreens because it’s less likely to clog pores. Some chemical sunscreens have ingredients like benzene and oxybenzone in them. Steer clear of these two ingredients. They are comedogenic and will cause irritation.

• Exfoliants

Exfoliation is a necessary part of skin care. Many dermatologists recommend exfoliation once or twice a week. Any more than that and you’re going to compromise your skin barrier. Why is exfoliation necessary? As you get older your skin cell turnover rate starts slowing down. It causes wrinkles, sagging and fine lines. Exfoliation helps you to increase the cell turnover rate making you look younger.

Choosing the best exfoliants for oily skin is quite easy. Don’t use harsh scrubs with granules. They can damage your skin and cause micro tears. These micro tears are a breeding ground for bacteria. Always use chemical or enzyme exfoliation. Physical exfoliation (dermaplaning) should always be done by a dermatologist. While using chemical exfoliants always remember, higher percentage doesn’t always mean more effective.

• Face Mask

Face masks are a treat for your skin. They aren’t absolutely necessary but your skin will thank you for using them. There are many categories of face masks such as detoxifying, soothing, regenerating, calming, hydrating etc. For oily skin I recommend soothing, hydrating and detoxifying masks. People who are above thirty should also incorporate regenerating masks into their skin care routine. Cold sheet masks are best for soothing and calming effects.

Detoxifying masks have any type of clay or charcoal in them. Charcoal is the most popular among people with oily skin. Calcium or sodium bentonite clay masks have proven to be most effective for oily and acne prone skin. You should choose one which works best for you. But remember you have to give any skin care product three to four weeks to work properly. Unless they cause irritation, redness or burning sensation. In that case stop using that product.

In a nut shell,

Health care is significant for all of us. Having healthy skin has a positive effect on your personality. But the glow comes from within. Your primary focus should be on your inner wellness. This post will help you build a basic skin care routine for oily skin. Once you have a steady skin care routine you will start noticing the changes in your skin.