Oily skin is usually caused by an overproduction of sebum. The overproduction can arise from hormonal or genetic factors. However, it can also be a result of the wrong skin care products. When harsh surfactants or alcohols strip sebum from the skin’s surface and impact the skin barrier, the body loses moisture. In response to the loss of moisture, it produces too much new sebum. So just because the skin appears oily doesn’t mean it has enough moisture. In this article you will find out what is particularly important for oily skin.
Oily skin looks young and supple for longer, but it often has side effects such as a slight sheen, a sticky feeling, blemishes and pimples.
In order to properly take care of oily or combination skin, it is particularly important to find the right products to cleanse and moisturize your skin.
How to find the right cleanser for oily or combination skin
The cleanser you use for thoroughly clean skin should not be too harsh. Find a cleanser that thoroughly removes sebum, clears pores of blockages and restores the optimal pH balance of the skin. Many products for oily skin contain a high proportion of alcohols, because these immediately remove the shine and “tighten the pores”, which gives the skin a more fine-pored appearance. However, they dry out the skin, also by weakening the skin barrier. This can lead to an overproduction of sebum again, which in turn leads to an oily sheen and impurities. To avoid this vicious cycle, it is important to use a facial cleanser that cleanses thoroughly and balances the skin’s fat and moisture content. In organic cosmetics, e.g. licorice extract is a reliable ingredient for gentle cleansing.
How to find the right moisturizer for oily or combination skin
A moisturizer should feel lightweight and yet provide the skin with sufficient hydration. Since the skin already has a high oil content, it is advisable to choose a care product with a higher water content and a slightly lower lipid content. A lotion or a fluid are often better for oily and combination skin than a cream. Natural ingredients are more suitable here than synthetic ones, as they can be absorbed by the skin. Aloe Vera, for example, is an excellent source of moisture and nutrients, natural oils improve the skin’s barrier in the long term and reduce moisture loss.
For oily and combination skin, we recommend the Cleansing Milk and the Tonic Sensitive from our GREEN series. The Hydrating Fluid is best suited for lightweight moisturization.