If you’ve ever dealt with oily skin, you know the constant struggle—shine that shows up halfway through the day, breakouts, and clogged pores that just won’t quit. While oily skin is frustrating, the good news is that you can manage and even reduce oiliness with the right approach. Read on as we explore the causes of oily skin while giving you dermatologist-backed solutions to help you achieve a balanced, healthy complexion.
Understanding the Causes of Oily Skin
Oily skin is caused by your sebaceous glands working overtime to produce sebum—the natural oil that keeps your skin soft and protected. What do we mean by working overtime? Well, here’s a visual representation of hyperactive oil glands by Dr. Mike:
@dr.mike.d Paano sumayaw ang hyperactive oilglands 🤭 #LearnItOnTiktok #tiktokquiz #fyp #foryou #acnescars #acnescarph #dermph #dermatologist #dermatologistph #dermatologistphilippines #acneexpert #acne #acnecure #azelane #acnetreatmentph acne #acnetreatment #acnetreatmentphilippines #skintok #edutok #tiktoku #tiktokskwela #eduwow #learnontiktok #skincare #hormonalacne #backtotiktokskwela #healthtokph #acnederm #acnederma #acnedermatologist #bestdermatologistphilippines #acnefree #acnejourney #acnebreakouttreatment #acnepimplesremoval #acnescarsremoval #acnedoctor ♬ balik ka na - kei
While sebum is essential, too much of it can lead to shiny skin, clogged pores, and breakouts. But why does your skin produce so much oil? It usually comes down to a few common factors:
- Genetics: Oily skin can run in families, so if your parents or siblings have it, you might too. Your genes play a big role in determining how much oil your skin produces.
- Hormones: Changes in hormones, especially during puberty, pregnancy, or even just your monthly cycle, can kick oil production into high gear.
- Weather: Hot, humid weather can make your skin produce more oil, while dry air can trick your skin into overcompensating by producing extra sebum.
- Overusing or Using Harsh Products: Believe it or not, washing your face too often or using harsh cleansers can strip your skin of its natural oils, causing your sebaceous glands to kick into high gear to make up for the loss.
Dermatologist-Approved Tips to Reduce Oiliness of Face
Now that we’ve covered why your skin might be oily, let’s dive into how you can manage it.
Tip # 1: Start with a Gentle Cleanser
As mentioned above, when your skin is stripped of its natural oils via the use of harsh cleaners, your glands will produce even more oil to compensate. The best face wash for greasy skin is a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser that removes dirt and oil without drying out your skin. Look for ingredients like salicylic acid—this can help reduce oil buildup without damaging your skin’s protective barrier.
For example, the ACNOKLAIR AcnoBar Cleanser is a perfect choice for first-time skincare users. Its light formulation is designed to prevent acne while controlling oil production.
Another option is the AZELANE Face Soap, which gently cleanses dirt and oil buildup without stripping the skin. It's especially beneficial for people with acne-prone skin.
Tip # 2: Moisturize Even if You Have Oily Skin
It’s a common misconception that people with oily skin should skip moisturizing, but in fact, moisturizing is essential for keeping your skin balanced.
When your skin is dehydrated, it may produce even more oil to compensate, which can worsen the issue. The key is to choose a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer that won’t clog your pores. Look for products labeled as “non-comedogenic,” meaning they won’t contribute to acne or blocked pores.
A great option for oily skin is the ETHERIUS Hyalurane Hyaluronic Acid Serum. This lightweight, non-sticky serum is designed to boost your skin’s moisture-retention capacity, helping it stay hydrated and glowing without the added shine.
Another excellent choice is the MISSION: SKIN° HydroLock Lite Moisturizing Cream, which provides deep hydration without feeling heavy on the skin. It helps prevent trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), ensuring your skin retains moisture while reducing dryness. The added ceramides strengthen the skin’s barrier, making it a great choice for those looking to keep their skin hydrated, smooth, and free from excess oil production.
Tip # 3: Add Retinoids to Your Skin Care Routine for Oily Face
Retinoids are a game-changer for people with oily skin. These Vitamin A derivatives help to regulate cell turnover, reduce oil production, and prevent clogged pores—all essential for managing oily skin. Over time, introducing retinoids into your skincare routine can significantly reduce excess oil, improve skin texture, and even help combat signs of aging.
A great option to start with is MISSION: SKIN° Retinol 1% Defender Cream. It not only helps control oil production but also offers anti-aging benefits like improving skin hydration, elasticity, and firmness. Additionally, this product can help prevent acne breakouts, which is a common concern for those with oily skin.
Tip # 4: Keep Blotting Papers Handy
Even with a good skincare routine, excess oil may still build up throughout the day, especially, as mentioned earlier, in hot or humid weather. Blotting papers are an easy way to absorb surface oil without disturbing your makeup or stripping the skin of its moisture. Just press the blotting paper gently onto your face, particularly in areas like the forehead, nose, and chin, to remove the shine instantly.
Note that while blotting papers are great for quick fixes, frequent use can cause you skin to interpret the removal of surface oil as a sign of dehydration. It will therefore ramp up oil production to compensate. Use blotting papers sparingly throughout the day to avoid this issue.
Oily Skin Treatment: When to Seek Professional Help
If your oily skin leads to frequent acne, clogged pores, or other persistent issues that don’t improve with over-the-counter treatments, it may be time to consult a dermatologist. At DMD Skin Sciences, we may recommend the following professional treatments depending on your neeeds:
- Prescription-Strength Retinoids: These are more powerful than over-the-counter options and can better regulate oil production while improving acne and skin texture.
- Topical Antibiotics: For acne caused by excess oil, medications like clindamycin reduce bacteria and inflammation that can indirectly influence oil production.
- Oral Medications: For hormone-related oiliness, oral contraceptives, anti-androgens, and Isotretinoin can help balance hormone levels and control oil production.
- Chemical Peels or Laser Treatments: In-office procedures that reduce oil and minimize pores, leaving your skin smoother and less shiny.
- The DMD Glow Program: The DMD Glow Program is a convenient online solution for oily, acne-prone skin. You’ll get a step-by-step approach to treating stubborn acne and excessive oiliness, with personalized care from the comfort of your home. Many have cleared their skin and regained confidence through this program. Book a consultation today!
Conclusion
Dealing with oily skin doesn’t have to be a constant battle. By using the right products and following a consistent skincare routine, you can manage oil production, reduce shine, and maintain a healthier complexion. Whether it’s using gentle cleansers, incorporating retinoids, or opting for professional treatments, taking these steps can make a significant difference.
And if you’re still struggling with oily skin or acne, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at DMD Skin Sciences. Our expert team is here to help you find the best solution for your skin. Book a consultation with us—see you soon!