Many people have oily skin, but there are ways to reduce the shine. Here’s how according to a dermatologist.

Many people across the nation struggle with oily skin. And if you wash your face in the morning and end up with an oil slick by noon, you could be one of them. There are actually benefits to having this skin type. Those with oily skin are slower to show signs of aging, such as fine lines and dryness. While this might be a long-term benefit, it doesn’t offer much comfort to those suffering from severe shine in the present.

Another issue many people deal with alongside oily skin is acne, which can sometimes go hand in hand. But by following a few skincare steps, you can kick both of these concerns to the curb.

woman putting serum on her face

Here are the dos and don’ts when dealing with oily skin:

Do wash your face with a suitable cleanser – created with oily skin in mind – that washes without stripping and tightening your face. Gel and foam formulas are good options for people with this skin type.

Don’t confuse oily skin with dirty skin and overwash your face as a result. Over-cleansing and removing all oils can make your oil glands go into overproduction and can make the issue worse.

man looking in a mirror

Do opt for oil-free moisturizers and look for ingredients known for their oil-balancing and reducing properties. These should include the exfoliating BHA, salicylic acid, as well as niacinamide, and retinol.

Don’t eliminate moisturizer from your routine thinking you don’t need it or it will make the shininess worse. All skin types benefit from moisturizer, you just need to find one that caters to your skin’s needs.

woman putting moisturizer on her face

Do choose the right cosmetics. If you wear makeup, there are products that are created to adhere to oily skin. Many of them also have anti-shine benefits to keep your skin looking matt and fresh.

Don’t use ingredients that are known to clog pores or are oil-based. This includes things such as coconut oil and shea butter. Instead, seek out detoxifying ones, such as clays and ones with antibacterial properties.

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Click here to schedule an appointment with an APDerm practitioner near you to identify your ideal skincare routine.


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