Oily Skin SOS: Why is my skin so oily?

Published: October 13, 2023

Are you dealing with a shiny face before the clock hits lunchtime? Does your carefully applied makeup feel like it’s slipping away from your skin? Maybe you’ve explored a number of products, but nothing has provided a lasting solution to keep that persistent shine away. If you have ever asked the question, “Why does my skin insist on being so oily?” you are certainly not alone.

Oily skin is a very common concern shared by many. In this blog post, we are diving into its causes, unveiling effective management strategies, and introducing you to some [ comfort zone ] solutions that might just become your skin's new best friend.

comfort zone essential skincare collection on a white background

Understanding Your Skin Type

In order to maintain healthy and radiant skin, you must first determine your skin type. Understanding your skin type allows you to determine which products to use in order to address your specific skin concerns effectively. The main skin types are dry, normal, combination, and oily.

If your skin feels tight and flaky, you likely have dry skin.
If your skin feels comfortable, neither tight nor oily, you likely have normal skin.
If your skin feels dry in some areas and oily in others, you likely have combination skin.
If your skin feels greasy or shiny, especially around the T-zone, you likely have oily skin.

Oily skin provides an excess amount of sebum—an oily substance that moisturizes and protects hair and skin. Too much oil can cause the skin to feel slick to the touch, leading to breakouts and blemishes, and causing enlarged pores.

What Causes Oily Skin?

To effectively manage oily skin, it is important to understand its underlying causes. Some factors to consider are:

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal changes, particularly fluctuations in androgen levels, play a pivotal role in the health of our skin. Androgens are essential hormones involved in the growth and reproductive processes of both males and females. However, when these hormones surge to high levels, they can trigger an excess production of sebum, the skin's natural oil. This surplus oil can, in turn, lead to various skin concerns, including oily skin, visibly enlarged pores, and the unwelcome occurrence of frequent breakouts.

Diet

Keep in mind that the foundation for healthy skin begins internally. Foods containing high amounts of sugar, processed ingredients, and unhealthy fats may contribute to oily skin. Certain foods can stimulate the production of excess oil.

Environment and Weather

If you live in or frequently visit a humid climate, the excess moisture may contribute to an increase in the skin’s oil production, resulting in clogged pores and breakouts.

Overuse or Wrong Skincare Products

Your oily skin might be the result of overusing skincare products or using products that are not suitable for your skin type. It is important to select products tailored to your skin type and to use them in moderation, so as not to disrupt the skin’s natural balance.

Stress

When experiencing stress, the body begins to make cortisol. This signals to your glands that they need to produce more oil, leading to oily skin and potential breakouts.

Is Oily Skin Bad? The Pros and Cons

Like any skin type, oily skin has both advantages and challenges. Recognizing the pros and cons can help you appreciate and manage your skin effectively.

Advantages

Stress not—there are several advantages to having oily skin. The excess sebum produced by the skin acts as a natural protection from harsh environmental factors. Additionally, the natural oils help keep the skin soft and hydrated, making the skin less prone to wrinkles. As an added perk, oily skin eliminates the concern of dealing with dry, flaky skin.

Disadvantages

Oily skin often comes with the challenge of acne-prone skin, a shiny complexion, and enlarged pores. Clogged pores often result in breakouts, pimples, blackheads, and a shinier complexion that can appear greasy.

Expert Advice: Managing Oily Skin

To efficiently manage oily skin, here are some helpful tips and tricks:

Proper Washing

Use a gentle cleanser and warm water both morning and night. Select a cleanser designed for oily or acne-prone skin, is fragrance-free, and doesn’t contain harsh ingredients. To further help remove stubborn acne or enlarged pores, opt for double cleansing—first with an oil-based cleanser and again with a water-based cleanser.

Hydration

When oily skin is dehydrated, it will begin to overcompensate and produce more oil. Use a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer to maintain the skin’s moisture throughout the day.

Use Blotting Papers

Keep blotting papers or sheets handy to absorb excess oil throughout the day without disrupting your makeup. Leave it on for a few seconds to absorb the oil. This is an easy way to instantly get rid of excess shine and stay refreshed.

Exfoliate Often

Incorporating a regular exfoliation routine into your skincare regimen will help remove the dead skin cells that build up on the surface. If dead skin and other debris are not removed, your pores can become blocked, leading to breakouts or oily skin. Consider products with salicylic acid—an ingredient known for treating acne and unclogging pores.

Seek Professional Advice

If you’re struggling to manage oily skin despite following a proper routine, consider consulting a dermatologist who can provide a customized treatment plan to help you address your concerns effectively.

[ comfort zone ] Solutions for Oily Skin

[ comfort zone ]’s oily skin products are designed to provide effective solutions that help manage oil production, while gently cleansing and hydrating the skin for a matte look. Here's a selection of our offerings designed to address the specific needs of oily skin:

Active Pureness Mask: This clay face mask is designed to absorb excess sebum, making the skin more radiant, even while minimizing the appearance of pores.

Essential Scrub: Made for all skin types, this mechanical exfoliant has a creamy texture and is formulated to renew and revitalize the skin.

Active Pureness Gel: This exfoliating gel cleanses the skin and clears the pores from makeup and excess sebum.

Exfoliating Toner: Use this toner to complete the cleansing of the skin, clearing the pores and minimizing their appearance.

Embrace A Shine-Free Future

Oily skin may be caused by a variety of factors, including hormones, diet, environment, or stress. While the production of sebum is beneficial to our skin, too much of it can be a cause for concern, resulting in clogged pores and breakouts. You may not be able to turn off your sebaceous glands, but you can manage oily skin with a proper skincare routine and lifestyle choices.

[ comfort zone ] is committed to providing effective products to help address the concerns of different skin types and conditions so you can achieve a healthy, radiant complexion.