The Ultimate Skin Care Routine for Oily Skin + Product Recos

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If blotting paper is your bestie, your face gets shiny within minutes or looks like an oil slick at the end of the day, this blog is for you!

Though the battle against oiliness is a long one, the fact is that oily skin is one of the most common *and annoying, if you allow me to say* skincare concerns. But don't fret, our skincare fairies have cracked the code on how to reduce greasiness and properly maintain a healthy-looking complexion with the proper skin care routine for oily skin.

So, no more stressing over touch-ups every hour! With these tips and tricks tailored just for those affected by overly oily skin, you can say goodbye to shiny selfies forever.

But first, what’s oily skin and why does it happen?

Oily skin is a common skin type that is characterized by excess oil production *aka sebum*. Sebum is an oily substance that is naturally produced by the sebaceous glands in the skin, which plays a crucial role in keeping our skin soft and hydrated. However, when the glands produce too much sebum, it can lead to an oily, shiny complexion, enlarged pores, and an increased risk of acne breakouts.

Oily skin can be caused by several factors, including:

Genetics: Oily skin can be inherited through genetics. If one or both parents have very oily skin, it is more likely that their children will also have oily skin.
Hormones: Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, can cause the skin to become oilier. Hormones stimulate the production of sebum, the oily substance that helps to keep the skin hydrated.
Diet: A diet that is high in unhealthy fats or processed foods can contribute to oily skin. Consuming too much dairy or sugar can also exacerbate oily skin.
Cosmetics: Using cosmetics that are too heavy, contain oily ingredients, or have comedogenic ingredients can contribute to oily skin. Additionally, not properly removing makeup can also clog pores and cause the skin to become oilier.
Climate: Humid weather can cause the skin to produce more oil. This is because humidity makes it harder for sweat to evaporate from the skin, which can lead to more oil and sebum production.
Stress: Stress can cause hormonal imbalances in the body, which can contribute to the production of excess oil on the skin.

Best products for oily skin: The Do’s and Don’ts

Do’s: 4 Tricks that will help you control oily skin

When looking for skincare products for oily skin, it is important to look for the following:

1. Lightweight texture

One key factor to consider when picking products for oily skin is the texture. Lightweight textures such as gels or oil-free liquids are important because they don't clog pores or feel heavy on the skin.

These types of products also absorb quickly and easily, leaving you with a matte finish that lasts throughout the day. Using lightweight products not only helps control excess oil but also prevents breakouts and promotes healthier skin in the long run.

2. Look for ingredients that help regulate oil production

Look for ingredients that can help regulate oil production and reduce pore size. Here are our fave options:

Salicylic acid: This beta-hydroxy acid can help unclog pores, regulate oil production, and reduce inflammation in the skin, making it an effective treatment for acne-prone and oily skin types.
Niacinamide: This vitamin B3 derivative is known for its ability to regulate oil production, improve the skin's natural barrier function, and reduce the appearance of enlarged pores and uneven skin tone.
Tea tree oil: This natural essential oil is hailed for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which make it effective in treating acne and oily skin.
Zinc: This mineral is effective in regulating oil production, reducing inflammation, and promoting skin healing. It also has antimicrobial properties that help fight off bacteria and other harmful elements.
Aloe vera: This natural ingredient has anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe irritated skin and reduce redness. It also helps regulate oil production and promotes a healthier, more balanced complexion.
Clay: This ingredient is effective in absorbing excess sebum and impurities from the skin, making it an effective ingredient in face masks and cleansers for oily skin.
Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs): These acids help exfoliate the skin and promote cell turnover, which can help unclog pores, reduce oiliness, and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

3. Moisturize religiously

While it may seem counterintuitive to add moisture to already oily skin, moisturizing is actually essential for individuals with oily skin. Oily skin may seem like it's hydrated enough, but the excess oil doesn't equate to proper hydration. In fact, oily skin may overcompensate for lack of proper moisture, leading to excessive oil production. Moisturizing can actually help balance the skin's natural oil production and prevent breakouts.

Additionally, moisturizers with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide can help soothe and reduce inflammation, which are common skin concerns among individuals with oily skin.

4. Sun protection

Applying sunscreen is important for all skin types, particularly for oily skin, because the skin's natural oil production can make it more susceptible to sun damage. Look for lightweight, oil-free sunscreens that won't clog pores.

Don’ts: 3 deadly sins of the oily skin types

Oily skin can be exacerbated by many things. Use heavy creams and you’ll be loading your skin with too much oil, apply comedogenic ingredients and your skin will go from oily to acne-prone skin within days, and so on. Here are the sins you need to avoid:

1. Applying comedogenic ingredients

Comedogenic ingredients are ingredients that have the potential to clog pores and cause acne. They usually contain lipid-based oils, such as cocoa butter, coconut oil, and lanolin, which can act as a barrier on the skin, trapping dirt, sebum, and bacteria inside pores. People with oily skin are especially prone to breaking out due to their natural oil production and should avoid comedogenic ingredients in order to keep breakouts at bay.

2. Using heavy oils and creams

Heavy oils and creams can clog the pores, trapping dirt and bacteria inside. This can lead to breakouts, especially for people with oily skin who are already prone to breaking out due to their natural oil production. Additionally, creamy formulations and thick moisturizers tend to be too heavy for oily skin as they can leave behind a greasy residue that further exacerbates oiliness.

3. Harsh, irritating ingredients

People with an oily complexion should avoid parabens, fragrances, sulfates, and harsh alcohols as these ingredients can strip the skin of its natural oils. Parabens are preservatives that can alter hormones in the body and increase irritation, while fragrances can cause inflammation and allergic reactions. Sulfates are harsh detergents that can strip the skin of its protective barrier which leads to dehydration. Harsh alcohols like SD Alcohol 40-B or Ethanol can cause excessive oil production and leave the skin feeling dry and tight.

This rule applies to all skin types, from dry to sensitive skin, but it’s especially true for those with oily skin

Best skincare for oily skin: A 6-Step skincare routine to reduce oiliness

For individuals with oily skin, finding the best skincare routine can be challenging. Oily skin often produces excess sebum, which can contribute to breakouts and a shiny complexion throughout the day. However, with the right morning and evening routine, those with oily skin can achieve a balanced and healthy complexion.

Here’s the ultimate skin care routine for oily skin:

Step #1: Cleanse your skin

When it comes to caring for oily skin, choosing the right cleanser can make all the difference. With oily skin, it's important to avoid harsh, stripping formulas that can actually worsen oil production. Instead, opt for a gentle yet effective cleanser that can remove excess oil without drying out the skin.

Look for ingredients like salicylic acid, witch hazel, and tea tree oil, which can help to balance oil production and reduce acne. Foaming and gel cleansers can be a good choice for oily skin, as they can help to dissolve excess oil and leave skin feeling refreshed.

Facial Cleanser

Facial Cleanser AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Cleansing Bar

$16.00

Step #2: Exfoliate

Exfoliation is an essential step in any skincare routine, especially for those with oily skin prone to breakouts. The best exfoliator for oily skin should effectively remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and reduce excess oil without stripping the skin of its natural moisture. Look for exfoliators that contain ingredients like salicylic acid, alpha-hydroxy acids, or enzymes to tackle oily skin concerns. These ingredients work by breaking down and dissolving the buildup of oil and dead skin cells, leaving your skin feeling smooth and refreshed.

However, it's important to note that over-exfoliating can do more harm than good and irritate oily skin further. Using an exfoliator once or twice a week is typically enough to achieve the desired results.

Facial Exfoliator

Facial Exfoliator BHA Blackhead Power Liquid

$25.00

Facial Exfoliator

Facial Exfoliator Cosrx AHA 7 Whitehead Power Liquid

$25.00

Facial Exfoliator

Facial Exfoliator Bio-Peel Gauze Peeling - Green Tea

$30.00

Step #3: Treatment or exfoliating toner

A good toner will help to balance the skin's natural oils and reduce excess oil production, leaving the skin feeling refreshed and balanced. When searching for the best toner for oily skin, go for treatment toners especially made for your skin type or for exfoliating toners that can remove dead skin cells.

Important: avoid astringent toners at all costs. Astringent toners, which typically contain high levels of alcohol and other harsh ingredients, can actually do more harm than good for your skin. While they may provide a temporary tightening effect, regular use can strip your skin of its natural oils and even lead to irritation or breakouts.

Also, to avoid damaging your skin’s protective barrier, don’t use exfoliating toners if you’re exfoliating your skin weekly. This could irritate your skin and even increase sebum production.

Facial Toner

One Step Original Clear Pad - Asian Beauty Essentials

Facial Toner One Step Original Clear Pad

$22.00

Step #4-ish: The optionals: Serums

Serums are treatment steps that, even though they’re not mandatory, can do miracles for all skin types, including oily, acne-prone, and combination skin.

These lightweight, fast-absorbing formulas are typically water-based, meaning they won't add any extra oil to your skin. In fact, they can help regulate sebum production and balance your skin's natural oils. Many serums also contain ingredients like tea tree oil, galactomyces, and propolis which can help reduce the appearance of acne and prevent future breakouts.

Step #5: Moisturizer

Moisturizing is an essential part of an effective skincare routine, especially for oily skin. Many people believe that oily skin doesn't require additional moisture, but that's a myth. Your skin needs hydration to stay healthy, and if you skip moisturizing, your skin will compensate by producing even more oil, making oily skin worse. However, finding the right moisturizer for oily skin can be a challenge.

Look for a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer that contains ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or niacinamide, which provide hydration without clogging pores. Additionally, opt for non-comedogenic formulas to avoid any potential breakouts. Always make sure that you patch-test any new products before applying them to your face.

Step #6: Sunscreen

When it comes to sunscreens for oily skin, it’s important to look for lightweight, airy, or gel-like textures that get easily absorbed into your skin, don’t leave a white cast behind, and have a matte finish

Using sunscreen every day *no matter the weather or the season* will not only help you reduce oiliness but also protect your skin from the harmful UV rays that can cause other concerns like premature aging, dark spots, and even skin concerns.

Sun Protection

Sun Protection Mermaid Skin Gel UV SPF 50+ PA++++ (01 Clear)

$18.00

Sun Protection

Sun Protection All Around Safe Block Waterproof Sun Milk

$29.00

How to take care of oily skin: Find the must-have products for oil-prone skin

Now that we’ve assembled the ultimate skin care routine for oily skin and know the do’s and don’ts of this skin type, it’s time to build your anti-oily skin squad!

At Asian Beauty Essentials you’ll find all the products you need to reduce oiliness and nourish your skin quickly. From blotting paper and serums, to cleansers and moisturizers, we have everything you need to treat skin concerns in the blink of an eye.

Check out our oily skin collection!

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