What is oily skin and what are its main signs?
Oily skin is a skin type characterized by excessive sebum production by the sebaceous glands. This overproduction can make the skin shiny, often resulting in visible, dilated pores. The main signs include persistent shine on the face, particularly on the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin), an increased tendency to develop comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) and pimples, and an oily feel to the touch.
How can excess sebum be controlled in oily skin?
To control excess sebum, it's essential to adopt a skincare routine adapted to oily skin. Use gentle yet effective cleansers to remove excess sebum without drying out the skin. Products containing acids such as salicylic acid or glycolic acid are particularly effective, helping to unclog pores and reduce shine. It's also advisable to incorporate an astringent toner to tighten pores and a light, non-comedogenic moisturizer.
What are the best ingredients to look for in products for oily skin?
The best ingredients for oily skin include:
How does nutrition affect oily skin?
Nutrition plays a crucial role in skin health. For people with oily skin, it's advisable to limit consumption of foods with a high glycemic index, such as sweets and refined products, as they can stimulate extra sebum production. Increasing your intake of omega-3s and antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables can help moderate sebum production and improve overall skin condition.
Is it possible to apply make-up to oily skin without aggravating skin problems?
It's perfectly possible to apply make-up to oily skin without aggravating skin problems, provided you choose the right products. Choose foundations and loose powders formulated for oily skin, often labelled as "non-comedogenic" or "mattifying". It's also crucial to use primers designed to control shine and set make-up with a mattifying powder.
How often should I wash my oily skin?
We recommend washing oily skin twice a day, morning and night, to effectively eliminate excess sebum and accumulated impurities. Use a gentle cleanser specially formulated for oily skin, to cleanse without aggressing the skin or stimulating the sebaceous glands to produce even more sebum.
What types of masks are beneficial for oily skin?
Clay- and charcoal-based masks are particularly beneficial for oily skin. These ingredients help absorb excess sebum, deeply purify pores and reduce the appearance of enlarged pores. We recommend using a purifying mask once or twice a week to keep skin clean and less oily.
Is it necessary to use sunscreen for oily skin?
Absolutely, oily skin also needs protection against UV rays. Opt for a non-comedogenic, mattifying sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Gel or fluid formulas are ideal, as they don't feel greasy or block pores.
How do I treat acne scars on oily skin?
To treat acne scars on oily skin, incorporate products containingazelaic acid or retinol into your skincare routine. These ingredients are effective in reducing pigmentation and promoting skin regeneration. It's also worth consulting a dermatologist for more targeted treatments such as chemical peels or microdermabrasion.
What are the common mistakes when caring for oily skin?
One common mistake is over-cleansing the skin, which can lead to even greater sebum production. Also, avoid using overly aggressive or comedogenic products that can clog pores. Finally, neglecting moisturizing is a common mistake; even oily skin needs to be hydrated with suitable, light, non-comedogenic products.
