Anyone with an oily complexion knows the struggles that often come along with it. Excess oil can clog pores and lead to common skin woes like pimples and blackheads. And no one really feels their best when they have greasy skin. Taking drastic measures (like over-exfoliating or skipping out on moisturizer) might seem like the right approach to banish oily skin, but it still needs just as much TLC as every other skin type—including the proper type of cleansing and hydration. Read on to find out what exactly causes oily skin and what works best when it comes to oily skincare, from the right cleansers to moisturizers and treatments that won’t cause breakouts or create excess oil.
What causes oily skin?
First of all, it’s nothing to worry too much about—having oily skin is totally normal. Everyone’s skin has sebaceous glands that produce sebum—natural oils that help preserve the skin. But it can become a problem when the sebaceous glands start to produce too much sebum, which can then cause a greasy feeling as well as clogged pores and acne. Oily skin can be brought on by a number of different causes, including genetics, hormones, humidity and lifestyle factors like stress. You may be tempted to turn to strong cleansers and scrubs, but stripping the skin with a product that’s too harsh won’t just cause irritation—it will actually increase oil production. The key is to use a regimen of gentle products, including a foaming cleanser, a refreshing toner, a mattifying moisturizer and a trusted sunscreen.
The best way to cleanse oily skin
When it comes to how to reduce oily skin, a mild
cleanser is step one. An oil-free gel
cleanser is a great way to go. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel is formulated for acne-prone and
oily skin. It removes impurities and rebalances sebum production without over-drying or irritating. Even the
most sensitive skin can use this lightweight cleanser, and its foaming action can be used on the face, body,
chest, back and scalp too. The result is refreshed, smooth, healthy-looking skin.
If you’re looking for some gentle exfoliating action for
greasy skin, a light toner is a good idea. La
Roche-Posay Effaclar Astringent Lotion is made for oily and acne-prone skin. Formulated with micro-exfoliating
lipohydroxy acid (LHA), it works to unblock and reduce the look of enlarged pores (a common effect with oily
skin). That means it improves skin’s texture and clarity. Effaclar Astringent Lotion is also sensitive
skin-approved, and it’s easy (and super refreshing) to use; just spread it across the face before moving on to
your moisturizer. Bonus tip: Never, ever go to bed without taking off your makeup. That’s a no-no for
everyone—especially oily skin types.
How to hydrate oily skin without creating excess oil
Even though you may be tempted to skimp on moisturizer for oily skin, it’s still really important to protect the
skin barrier and balance the skin
microbiome,
which means you need to hydrate your complexion.
Using a mattifying daily moisturizer is an excellent way to reduce
oily skin. It will help control the shine that often
comes with the over-production of sebum. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat daily face moisturizer has a lightweight
cream texture and pulls triple duty: It hydrates while refining pores and mattifying for an anti-shine effect.
Absorbent micro-spheres and perlite take on slickness instantly. Formulated for oily to combination and
acne-prone skin, Effaclar Mat is made with Sebulyse, an active ingredient that inhibits sebum production at its
source. (It’s even more powerful than zinc.) The oil-free moisturizer works fast too: You’ll notice the
appearance of tighter pores as sebum production slows down.
And don’t forget to apply sunscreen every single day as the last step in your skincare routine. The best
sunscreen for oily skin protects your complexion without causing extra shine. That’s why an oil-free sunscreen
is always a good option. For extra shine control, look for sunscreens that have a matte finish. Recognized by
the Canadian Dermatology Association, La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL Dry Touch SPF 60 Facial Sunscreen is an ideal
sunscreen for oily skin. The
weightless broad-spectrum formula protects against UVA and UVB rays, which can cause damage that may lead to age
spots, wrinkles and even skin cancer. Anthelios Dry Touch SPF 60 Facial Sunscreen is perfect for combination to
oily skin since its gel-cream texture melts into skin fast. It won’t leave any white streaks or sticky residue
behind, either—instead, it minimizes shine throughout the day. It is even water-resistant for up to 80 minutes
and safe for sensitive skin.
Remember to always wash your hands before starting your skincare routine, and once you’re done, try to remember
to keep your hands to yourself—touching your face can transfer oil from your fingers to your complexion.
