Does oily skin get enough moisture? Revealing 5 supreme “oil-locking” tips

Oily skin must remove oil and cleanse the skin as much as possible. Oily skin doesn’t need moisturizer, because it will make the skin produce even more oil. This is incorrect! Science has actually proven: oily skin very much needs moisturizing. Are you “struggling” with excessively oily skin? This article will help you better understand “oily” skin and what it needs to stay healthy.

1. What is oily skin

Oily skin is characterized by a shiny appearance with large, visible pores. Oil on the skin appears mainly in the T-zone, nose and forehead – where sebaceous glands are concentrated.

2. Causes of oily skin

Oily skin occurs because the oil glands – the skin’s sebaceous glands – produce too much sebum. Sebum is a very important substance in keeping the skin’s protective barrier hydrated and protected. But when sebum is overproduced, the skin can become oily and clogged, causing acne and skin irritation

Excess sebum stems from various factors such as hormonal changes at puberty, improper skincare, stress, environmental pollution, or an unhealthy diet. These break down the skin’s protective barrier and cause an oil–moisture imbalance.

3. So does oily skin need moisturizing?

We often think oily skin is already moisturized enough and doesn’t need cream anymore. But that is an extremely mistaken notion that can make the skin’s condition worse. Because when the skin is too dry, it stimulates more oil production to hydrate and restore the oil–moisture balance. Therefore, using moisturizer is essential for oily skin.

However, not every moisturizer is good for oily skin. Oil-based moisturizers will make the skin oilier and worsen clogged pores. Water-based gel moisturizers will be the “lifesaver” for oily skin without the fear of greasiness.

4. Ways to moisturize oily skin

Oily skin’s moisturizing needs are a bit complex because you need just enough moisture to keep the skin in oil–moisture balance. A skincare routine with too little water can dehydrate the skin, while too much oil can make it greasy and prone to breakouts. So be careful when choosing a routine to nourish oily skin

Oily skin can be hard to care for, but the 5 small tips below can help you moisturize properly and achieve balanced, breakout-free skin.

4.1. Use a gentle makeup remover and facial cleanser so as not to strip the skin’s natural oils

Washing away makeup residue, excess oil and dirt on the face is the first step to controlling oil. Choose a gentle makeup remover and cleanser to avoid over-cleansing, disturbing the pH balance and stripping the skin’s natural oils.

4.2. Add rose water (toner) to your skincare routine

Rose water gives the skin a final cleanse and adds moisture, helping the skin stay well hydrated. In particular, rose water is a stepping stone that helps the nutrients from subsequent products absorb into the skin more effectively.

4.3. Choose a suitable moisturizer

A water-based moisturizer will keep your skin hydrated, soft and plump. Use a lightweight gel or lotion moisturizer to avoid clogging pores and a heavy feeling.

4.4. Drink plenty of water and maintain a balanced diet

Water keeps the skin supple and helps flush out toxins. So remember to drink enough 2 liters of water a day and eat a fully nutritious diet to help your body maintain healthy skin.

4.5. Relax

Cortisol – the stress hormone – can increase your skin’s oil production. Practice meditation, do yoga, or unwind with a few favorite activities to avoid both physical and mental stress.

5. Oily skin isn’t really bad

Although oily skin can clog pores and increase acne, it also has many benefits. Oil helps protect the skin, and people with oily skin often have thicker skin and fewer wrinkles. The important thing is to balance between having too much oil and maintaining the skin’s natural moisture.

With the right amount of oil and moisture, your skin can avoid aging and wrinkles, stay smooth and hydrated, maintain a healthy protective barrier, and guard against acne-causing irritants from the environment.

Oily skin is not an “easy-to-please” skin type. It comes with many skin problems and causes us endless “worries.” However, if you maintain a suitable skincare habit, these issues will naturally disappear.