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Expert Advice | Managing Oily Skin The Right Way
There’s no doubt that oily skin can be tricky to manage, especially as oil production is largely down to hormones and so is pretty much out of our hands. Luckily, there are ways to tweak your routine to keep your skin clean and glowing.
Why do we get oily skin?
Our skin produces natural oils which are designed to keep the skin healthy – but you can have too much of a good thing. People with oily skin types naturally produce more oil, which can lead to blemishes and acne flare-ups.
Anything and everything can have an effect on oil production, from hormones to mood, and even the weather. The first step you can take to tackling your oily skin is to know what variables have an impact so that you can adjust your regime accordingly.
Cleanse your skin the right way
Cleansing is the backbone to any good skincare routine, and getting it right can work wonders. Thorough cleansing keeps skin free of nasties that can clog pores, leaving a nice, clean base for the next product in your routine.
The first step is to find a cleansing wash that’s tailored for your skin type (make sure it’s not too drying – this can lead to more problems!). Rinse with warm water and pat dry. Make sure you do this morning and night to get rid of impurities and build-up.
When searching for the right product, look out for benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, glycolic acid or beta-hydroxy acid, which are favourites for fighting acne. Steer clear of sulphates though, as they’ll over-dry your skin, leading to further oil production.
Top Tip: Blotting sheets are a nifty way to mop up any excess oil during the day, to tide you over until you can properly cleanse.
Top Product: We love Algologie’s Deep Cleansing Gel to gently eliminate impurities and provide immediate freshness.
Take up toning
After you’ve cleansed, you might think your job’s done. Think again! Toning should always be the next step in your routine, to wash away every last trace of product and normalise your skin’s pH level. A toner specifically for oily types will smooth out skin and tighten pores, giving you a flawless finish.
Top Tip: Toner is so easy to apply! Just use a cotton pad or put it in a misting bottle to give your skin a spritz of freshness.
Top Product: Algologie’s Purifying Toner removes impurities and balances oil production.
Exfoliate regularly
Exfoliating is a must for all of us, but it’s especially good for oily skin. Oily skin types tend to have a thick layer of build-up and dead skin cells, hence the clogged pores! Sloughing off those dead cells helps to reduce the formation of comedones (skin-coloured, lumpy pimples), smoothing and softening the skin whilst encouraging renewal.
Top Tip: Try an exfoliator containing salicylic acid. This wonder ingredient penetrates deep inside the pore lining, helping to clear up blemishes.
Oily skin is not an excuse to go overboard on the exfoliating. Only exfoliate twice a week to avoid damaging your skin.
Top Product: We recommend Algologie’s granular peel to gently exfoliate and dissolve impurities.
Moisturise, but keep it light!
It stands to reason that oily products will lead to oilier skin, but products that are too light won’t do the job. Your first instinct might be to avoid moisturisers at all costs; this is one of the worst things you can do! Oily skin is in desperate need of hydration. Lack of moisture can stimulate even more oil production, worsening the problem.
Top Tip: Look for a light, water-based moisturiser that’s oil-free and non-comedogenic. Glycerin and sodium hyaluronate are also ingredients to look for.
Top Product: We love Algologie’s Purifying Night Fluid to balance the skin’s pH and renew skin.
Clear the T-Zone
The T-Zone (forehead, nose and chin) has a reputation for being oily. That’s because it has more sebaceous glands than anywhere else on the face. Of course, this means it’s a particular problem spot.
Top Tip: It’s best to avoid the T-Zone when applying serums and liquid-based foundation. If you can’t go without, try using a powder or mineral formula, oil-free foundation or BB cream instead.
Top Product: Algologie’s Fleur de Mer tinted foundation provides matte, non-greasy coverage and keeps skin hydrated.
Talk to a skin specialist
There are so many products for oily skin out there, so it’s easy to get overwhelmed with all the choice. You can spend lots of money and still not see results. Speak to a skin expert and get advice on the products that are right for you; that way, you can get cracking on a routine that you know will work!
We’re passionate about helping each of our clients love the skin they’re in. We’re always happy to offer advice, and the following treatments are tailored specifically for oily skin:
Get in touch to get free skincare advice from our experts, or to book your next appointment.
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