Causes and tips for oily skin

Rose May Pimentel in Health

Jul 09, 2020 • 2 min Read

Notice that your face is shiny and greasy— oily? Oiliness is mainly due to the overproduction of sebum in the skin. Sebum is the waxy, oily substance that protects and hydrates the skin. It is vital for keeping the skin healthy. Sebum is mostly produced on the face. However, too much sebum can lead to oily skin, clogged pores, and acne.

Here are some of the most common causes of oiliness:

* Diet: A diet high in sugar increases sebum production in the skin.

* Genetics: Oily skin tends to run in families. If one of your parents has oily skin, you’re likely to have overactive sebaceous glands, too.

* Age: The body produces more sebum during puberty, However, oiliness is not exclusive to puberty–one is still prone to oily skin regardless of age.

* Environment: External factors like pollution and humidity can cause sweat, and in turn become a cause of oiliness. Our hot and humid weather may have a lot to do with the worsening of oily skin among Pinays.

Tips from experts on how to manage oily skin and prevent breakouts:

* Consider your diet

Foods containing sulphur such as fish, vegetables, legumes, eggs, and nuts can help reduce excess levels of sebum. Avoid foods high in fats and sugars. Stay hydrated at all times.

*Wash your face

If your skin is oily, wash your face twice a day but don’t overdo it. While washing, don’t scrub your skin, even to remove makeup. Scrubbing irritates your skin, which can make it look worse.

*Use a gentle face wash

Use a mild and gentle soap. Avoid harsh soaps or detergents for it can irritate your skin and trigger increased oil production.

*Reduce the use of oil-free/water-based makeup and skincare products

Using heavy cosmetics to cover the effects of oily skin can make the condition worse. When oily skin acts up, reduce the use of makeup, especially foundation. Choose water-based products instead of oil-based. Look for products labeled non-comedogenic, they are less likely to clog pores.

*Don’t touch your face throughout the day

Touching your face can spread dirt, oil, and bacteria from your hands to your face. Touch your face only when you’re cleansing, moisturizing, or applying makeup. Make sure your hands are clean first.

So, go try these tips! Don’t forget that the best course of action may be to consult a dermatologist.  Stay healthy and fresh!