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What Causes Oily Skin? Is It Unhealthy to Have Oily Skin?
Oily skin is every girl’s nightmare as it is difficult to deal with. It feels greasy within few hours after cleansing. The makeup doesn’t stay on for a long time and there is a need to use special products for oily skin. The major causes of oily skin are stress, weather, shifting hormones, overproduction of sebum in the skin, over cleansing, under cleansing and lifestyle.
It is not unhealthy to have oily skin, but over produced sebum when mixed with dead cells, clog pores and leads to acne. Skin produces natural oils to keep moisture in and hydrate, but hormonal imbalances along with other reasons lead to over production of these natural oils causing oily skin. This situation can be controlled by using the right skin products and following a balanced diet.
Home remedies are also used by many to tackle oily skin. Although there is scientific evidence that home remedies for oily skin can be effective, the effectiveness of these is a personal experience.
5 Myths About Oily Skin
High-Fat Diet Causes Oily Skin
There is no scientific proof that high fat diet could cause oily skin. However, if there is too much sugar present in the food, it could lead to oily skin in some people as they are sensitive to it.
Oily Skin Does Not Need Moisturiser
The more skin is left to dry, it starts over producing oils. So always use moisturizer that are non-comedogenic, they don’t cause acne. All skin types need moisturizer, but choose one that suits your skin.
Exposure to Sun Improves Oily Skin
It may seem like sun exposure dries out the skin, but the dried skin ends up overcompensating by producing more oil. So, sun does not improve oily skin, always make sure to use sunscreen.
Daily Exfoliation is Necessary for Oily Skin
Daily exfoliation leads to over exfoliation, which is a disaster for oily skin as it makes the skin dry. The dried-out skin tends to overproduce natural oils and makes the skin condition even worse. Exfoliate once or twice a week and scrub is actually the best choice for oily skin as it helps remove impurities from the skin.
7 Home Remedies for Oily Skin
Good Skin Care Routine
Oily skin is not easy to maintain and it presents unique challenges such as acne breakouts and shiny complexion. However, with appropriate skin care regimen, you can keep oily skin under control with fresh and clean complexion all day. Oily skin may be hereditary, but it is also influenced by stress, seasonal changes, environment and hormones. So, following a daily skincare routine will keep your skin clear, healthy and shine-free.
Washing – Washing at regular intervals can reduce oil on your skin. However, it is recommended to use only gentle soap and lukewarm water. Soaps with harsh chemicals, added moisturizers, and fragrances must be strictly avoided, as it can dry out or irritate skin. Also, try avoiding washcloths and loofahs, as the friction can further stimulate the oil glands to produce more oil. Medicated products that contain salicylic acid, beta-hydroxy acid, glycolic acid and benzoyl peroxide can also tackle oily skin.
Toner – Natural astringents like witch hazel are best to use as chemical-based toners may contain alcohol that can cause dryness. Moreover, natural herbs have soothing properties and can reduce enlarged pores and can remove makeup and other products that can clog pores. However, if you are allergic to natural astringent tones, it is better to avoid it.
Embrace Minimalism – Those with oily skin must avoid using extensive skincare products and bring in some changes in their makeup routine too. Liquid foundations, primers contain silicones that could enlarge and clog pores thereby worsening the woes. So, it is suggested to use products with natural extracts and lactic acid. Also, many skincare products that claim to fix the problems of oily skin can in fact worsen the condition, as most of them contain harsh ingredients. So, pick organic and natural products that do not strip moisture off your skin.
Use Konjac Sponges
Konjac Sponge is made from the natural fiber of the plant known as devil’s tongue, which is widely grown in Japan, China and Korea. It is known for its gentle exfoliating and cleansing property. Using this sponge is often suggested by dermatologists to unclog pores, which is especially useful for those with oily skin. It does not cause excess irritation and are safe for almost all skin types, except for sensitive skin.
The unique texture helps remove dead skin cells, oil, dirt and even makeup leaving your skin brighter and soft to touch. Over exfoliation can lead to dryness and therefore avoid using the sponge every day. Use it twice a week to keep pores clear and check excess sebum production. These sponges are 100% biodegradable, so you need not feel guilty every time you have to discard it. A good quality sponge will last for almost 3 months.
Konjac sponge is available in different colors depending on the ingredients added to it like green tea, lavender, charcoal, clay etc. It is easy to use, all you need to do is soak the sponge in warm water for couple of minutes. Squeeze some cleanser on the sponge and massage your skin in circular motion. After using, rinse and remove excess water and allow it to dry.
The Elite Models Konjac Aloe Vera Sponge available on Flipkart for Rs. 664. This washable and reusable sponge with aloe vera is suitable for normal to dry skin types.
Use Blotting Papers
There are several tools available these days that claim to control oil production, but many of them simply do not work. Despite following a good skin care regimen, the T-zone tends to develop a shine by midday.
Blotting papers are absorbent papers that are specially made to remove oil from the skin. Although they do not reduce sebum production, they sure do remove excess oil and make your skin appear less shiny. Made from extra-absorbent material that includes natural ingredients like cotton, flax seeds and rice, they work magic by absorbing oil and your skin feels and looks matte.
You can use these sheets to target only those specific areas that you want mattified. It is very convenient to use, are easy to carry and the best part is that it does not disrupt your makeup. They are wallet-friendly as well. Add this to your routine to flaunt a clear matte complexion.
Palladio Rice Paper available on Nykaa has an inventive design. These sheets from Palladio is perfect for quick touch-ups. It helps eliminate all-day shine. The sheet consists of two sides the powdered side that is useful for touch-ups and matte side that helps blot away the shine. The price of this blotting paper is Rs. 499
Exfoliate Weekly Once
Although there is no cure to prevent excess oil production from your sebum glands, there are definitely certain ways to control it. Besides the routine cleansing, toning and moisturizing, regular exfoliation is also required for those with oily skin. Scrubbing your skin will remove dead cells and unclogs your pores. Exfoliating at least 2 or 3 times a week helps prevent oil build-up.
You can purchase a scrub available for oily skin in the stores or try some effective DIY scrubs at home.
Face Scrubs For Gentle Exfoliation
Oatmeal, Yogurt And Honey Scrub
Honey has moisturizing and hydrating properties while oatmeal is anti-inflammatory. The lactic acid in yoghurt removes dead skin cells and gives a natural glow.
- Mix together 1 tbsp each of oatmeal powder, honey and yoghurt.
- Apply the paste on the face and neck and massage in circular motion for 1 or 2 minutes.
- Rinse with cold water. Use the scrub once or twice a week.
How to Prepare and Apply the Scrub:
Honey And Almond Scrub
This scrub helps reduce excess oil and heals dry and damaged skin. It also protects from free radical damage.
- Mix together 2 tbsp of honey, ¼ tbsp lemon juice, and 1 tbsp ground almonds.
- Apply the mixture all over the face and massage for 1 or 2 minutes.
- Rinse with water. It is recommended to use the scrub twice a week.
How to Prepare and Apply the Scrub:
Use Face Masks
It is normal for sebaceous glands to secrete some oil that moisturizes the skin. However, these glands work overtime in case of people with oily skin type. Oily skin easily attracts dirt and impurities from the environment. A good face mask can cleanse and absorb the oils on the surface of the skin. Face masks with pure and natural ingredients are the best, as it does not clog pores or inhibit hydration. Although there are several face masks available online, the homemade chemical-free and natural remedies are always gentle on the skin.
DIY Face Masks
Activated Charcoal And Clay Mask
Activated charcoal has the ability to remove dead cells, impurities and toxins and works very well when combined with clay, yogurt and apple cider vinegar.
- Combine together 1 tbsp of activated charcoal, 1 tbsp of clay, 2 tbsp of apple cider vinegar, 1 probiotic capsule and 1 drop of any essential oil.
- Combine all these ingredients to make a smooth spreadable paste.
- Apply it on the face and leave for 15 minutes. Wash with water.
How to Prepare and Apply the Face Mask:
Fruit Face Masks
The nutrient-rich fruits are easily available and can be used to make face masks to treat oily skin. Fruits will not only remove excess oil from the skin, but they also work as excellent moisturizers and will not make your skin dry. Papaya, orange and lemon are usually used for oily skin. These fruits can be combined with rose water, honey and aloe vera for best results.
Papaya and Orange Face Mask – Ripe papaya exfoliates skin and clears dirt and oil accumulated on the face. The potassium in papaya helps retain moisture in the skin. Orange is rich in vitamin C and has natural astringent property, which helps reduce excess sebum production.
- Extract juice of 5 or 6 orange wedges and mix it with papaya paste.
- Apply this on face and neck and rinse off after 15 minutes.
- Use this face mask once a week for optimal results.
How to Prepare and Apply the Face Mask:
Yoga For Radiant Skin
Are you tired of extravagant treatments and skincare products and looking for something inexpensive and effective Yoga is what you need. Besides healthy body and mind, regular yoga practice will also make your skin glow. You will look good both inside and outside. All you need is one hour a day to experience the positive benefits of yoga. Yoga postures improve blood circulation and also helps remove toxins from the body.
A few postures that are beneficial for glowing skin are –
- Fish Pose – This posture gives a good stretch to facial and throat muscles and enables deep breathing. It makes the skin firm and flexible.
- Breathing Exercises – Cooling pranayamas such as sheetkari and sheetali provide a cooling effect and thus help in retaining the skin’s glow.
- Sarvangasana – Also known as shoulder stand, the posture promotes blood circulation towards face, which helps in enhancing skin texture.
- Mountain Pose – This pose helps focus on rhythmic breathing, which is important for healthy skin. Controlled breathing helps the body to get rid of toxins and gives a healthy glow to the skin.
A Good Diet
For flawless skin, one needs to give a lot of attention and is indeed a challenge to maintain a clear skin. Oily skin is a nightmare, but there are a number of ways to tackle this issue and eating right is one the solutions. Diet plays a vital role when it comes to our skin’s health. Knowing what to eat and what to avoid is really important.
So here are a few foods to feed your skin.
- Kale – Many beauty products have Kale Extracts and this humble green veggie is garnering a wide attention thanks to its rich content of Vitamin A, C and Copper. It promotes cell growth, repairs skin tissue and prevents free-radical damage.
- Cucumber – This salad staple is incredibly hydrating. It has astringent property and helps tighten open pores and hence, widely used in face packs.
- Avocado – Besides eating this fruit, you can also use it for topical application as face masks. It is an effective moisturizer and is a good source of Omega Oils and Vitamin E. These nutrients help your skin to remain healthy and strong.
- Oats – Oats are more than just a cereal. It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that soothe dry, irritated and itchy skin. It can soak up excess oil from the skin and hence a perfect ingredient for face masks. Oats are key to good skin health.
- Lentils – Packed with fibre, and protein, lentils helps the skin to renew and repair itself. It also has zinc that helps regulate sebum production.
Best Products For Oily Skin
FACE WASH: Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Fighting Face Wash
This face wash contains 2 percent salicylic acid which is proven to be effective in unclogging pores and prevent blackheads. Oil-free formula does deep cleansing without over-stripping the skin, which will ensure the face will not feel dry. It is available on Amazon for Rs. 510
SCRUB: Nivea Total Face Cleanup
Using an exfoliating scrub is essential mainly for oily skin as it helps in opening up the pores, getting rid of that extra oil and removing impurities from the skin. Using this product will result in clean and healthy skin. It is available at Nykaa for Rs. 114
MOISTURIZER: Oriflame’s Tea Tree Moisturizer
This product is a must for oily skin as it is packed with tea tree essence and is light in texture. It helps in hydrating the oily skin and provides non-greasy, matte look. It is available on Flipkart for Rs. 238
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Remove All Oily Skin Worries by Following These Easy Home-Care Remedies in 2020
Oily skin may feel like a bane in today's era. Even with many skin-care methods, the skin keeps feeling greasy. Not anymore, try out these best home care remedies for oily skin and feel the difference.