Looking Shiny? Here's How to Combat Oily Skin

A hint of shine can look beautiful as a highlighter gleaming across your cheeks or a gloss perfectly-applied to your lips. But the shine on your face can be different. While the dewy look is in, too much grease isn’t doing anyone any favors.

There’s a big difference between having a hint of shimmer across your cheeks and having a noticeable slickness coating your T-zone.

Fortunately, there are several ways to combat unwanted shiny skin. Keep reading to learn how to banish the slick for good.

Perfect Your Skincare Routine

If your skin tends to get greasy, you may have the urge to wash your face at every opportunity possible. But, while it may seem like you’re washing away the shine, your frequent face-washing may be doing more harm than good.

Sebum is essential for skin functioning, and over-cleansing the skin can lead to increased oil production.

The cleanser you choose to wash your skin is essential for its health. But, there are so many options.

Do you go for a rich milk cleanser? Or a light foam? How about a thick gel?

It’s a good idea to go for a cream or milky cleanser, as these consistencies dissolve dirt and grime without disturbing the barrier function and natural moisture levels of the skin. You can also opt for a cleanser packed full of BHAs, which are excellent for dissolving excess oil.

EltaMD’s Foaming Facial Cleanser is suitable for all skin types, including oily skin. The gentle enzyme and amino acid blend loosens and cleans makeup, oil, and other impurities on the skin and deep within the pores. The thick, rich foam lifts away these impurities and washes them away, leaving your skin clean, balanced, and fresh.

Don’t Ditch the Moisturizer

Many people believe that the skin is either oily or dehydrated. But, did you know that it can be both?

Some people with oily skin avoid using moisturizers because they think they will add more shine to their face. But, hydrating products like moisturizers are essential in every skin routine, no matter what your skin type is.

Moisturizers are essential to maintain moisture levels, so there’s little sense in avoiding using them. If your skin is lacking in hydration, oil production may increase to try and compensate for it.

But before you reach for the nearest face cream, know that the moisturizer you use on oily skin should be chosen wisely. It’s best to avoid any thick and heavy creams packed with rich plant butter, as these may lead to congestion, aka breakouts.

If you’re concerned about blackheads and blemishes as well as shiny skin, opt for a light and hydrating moisturizer rather than anything heavy and super-creamy.

Incorporate Salicylic Acid Into Your Routine

Leave-on BHAs like salicylic acid works wonders for controlling overactive oil production, which reduces greasy skin and the development of blackheads and blemishes.

Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid which is a lipopholic. This means it is drawn to and helps break down excess oil. Even better, the acid is an anti-inflammatory and deeply penetrates the pores to remove any debris. This makes salicylic a wonder ingredient for fighting congestion that often comes along with oiliness.

Not sure how to incorporate salicylic acid into your routine? An easy way is to use a twice-daily exfoliant, swiped over skin after cleansing. Just be sure not to rinse it off, or it won’t be as effective at combating the greasiness.

If you’re using a salicylic acid cleanser, let it sit on the face for two minutes before washing it away. Why not sneak in a little face massage while you’re at it?

Another excellent choice is PCA Skin’s Acne Gel. The treatment clears existing blemishes, prevents any future breakouts, and tackles overly greasy skin. Plus, the product is cruelty-free, as are the rest of the formulas from PCA Skin’s collection.

Assess Your Diet

Many skin issues come from deeper within. If your skin is consistently oily and using the right products doesn’t help, the root of your issues may lie in your diet.

Try avoiding sugar and dairy, as these ingredients feed and increase oil production. A diet deficient in zinc, magnesium, omega 3, and vitamin B may also contribute to excess oil production.

Try eating foods like shellfish, legumes, and nuts, which are full of zinc. Zinc helps to regulate the oil-producing glands, so it’s essential to eat enough of it.

Do you want more skincare advice? Here are the products that are excellent for eczema-prone skin.