The Best Products For Oily Skin

What causes oily skin?

Oily skin which can appear greasy, is caused by excess sebum production, the skin’s own natural oil. Contributing factors include genetics, hormones, chemicals - even humid weather can cause overactive sebaceous glands. Some people have naturally oily skin, but sebum production may also increase at certain times, such as during your menstrual cycle and when you're physically or emotionally stressed. Another big cause is using the wrong products for your skin type.

What are the most common misconceptions of oily skin?

I often see patients using harsh cleansers and toners to try and strip away the excess oil - at the other extreme, people avoid moisturising altogether. What I tell my patients is healthy skin has to have the right balance which comes from a good skincare regime. The correct cleanser is one that will clear away impurities without being too stringent, while a light moisturiser is necessary to retain moisture levels.

What are the best ingredients to use?

The use of acids is an important step in any skincare regime and an exfoliant containing Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) is ideal for those with oily skin as they work on the skin’s surface and get inside the pores. BHA, commonly known as Salicylic acid, is oil soluble so can pass through the sebum and help to clear the skin, preventing bumps, blemishes, and enlarged pores. It also has antibacterial properties making it especially helpful for those with active acne.
 
When moisturising, chose one which contains Hyaluronic Acid. It is lightweight but has high water retaining properties and plumps up the skin.

What should you avoid?

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs - Citric acid, Lactic acid and Glycolic acid) which are commonly used in cosmetics can irritate the skin. AHAs are water soluble so only act on the surface of the skin and are better for those with dry and sun damaged skin. If you are looking to exfoliate then choose one which contains Lactic acid as it the gentlest of the AHAs and will cause less irritation.

Another ingredient to be avoided is Oleic Acid which is found in many of the heavier moisturisers. Oleic Acid is comedogenic, meaning it blocks the pores leading to blackheads and breakouts.
Denatured Alcohol, Ethanol and Isopropyl Alcohol should also be avoided as they strip the skin.

What foundation works best for oily skin?

The best foundations are oil-free and ideally contain an SPF. A mattifying product in areas of oiliness such as the T-zone and around the nose can help and will counter any shiny or greasy appearance of the skin. Light pressed, or finely milled loose mineral-based powder make-up is great for skin prone to excess oiliness. Powders are non-comedogenic and absorb oil instantly, helping to prevent shine build up throughout the day.

Physical Exfoliator
Nuxe Micro-Exfoliating Purifying Gel Daily Aquabella
A hard working gel formula infused with natural microbeads and hyaluronic acid, you’ll find this clarifies without stripping or drying. Massage onto damp skin and rinse, you’ll see an improvement in a matter of weeks.

Face Oil
Lapis Balancing Face Oil
This face oil is nothing short of a miracle when it comes to oily and spot prone skins. Combining blue tansy and anti-bacterial azulene, it restores equilibrium, brings down redness and rebalances your complexion. Squeeze 5 drops in your hand, then press into clean skin in place of your moisturiser.

Moistursier
La Roche Posay Effaclar Mat
Forgoing your moisturiser is counterproductive as your skin will need hydration, however a rich formula only adds to the problem. Consider La Roche Posay’s offering – created for oilier complexions, the multitasking, anti-shine moisturiser doesn’t suffocate the skin, instead Sebolyse shrinks pores and micro-powders absorb oil, giving you a gleam-free finish.