How to Get Rid of Oily Skin

What causes oily skin

Oily skin in caused by excess production of sebum - the skin natural oils. There are a variety of reasons for this - however simple lifestyle changes can get rid of oily skin or make it more manageable, while in other instances it may be a little more out of control.

Environment - how the weather affects oily skin

If you're still wondering how to get rid of oily skin, there are some things that are unavoidable. Weather can affect the skin - for example dry skin is prevalent in the harsh cold months and your oil glands can produce lots of excess sebum to compensate. When it's hot and humid or dry and cold the weather can wreak havoc on skin. Hot, sweaty conditions can encourage the secretion of sebum. These instances can mean you end up with oily skin. Making sure to moisturise with SPF even in the cold weather, despite seeming counter intuitive, can prevent oily build up on the skin.

Oily skin & genetics

Just as your eye colour is passed down from your parents, they're also usually to thank/blame for your skin type. Indeed, your genetic makeup likely plays a part in whether you're more or less prone to large sebaceous glands and oily skin. Even if you're genetically predisposed there are ways to try and control oily skin; develop a skincare routine for oily skin by gently exfoliating (a few times a week). Also, make sure to wear sunscreen - sun overexposure can lead to damaged skin, the results of which can mean skin goes in overdrive leaving you with oily skin.

The OTHER causes of Oily Skin

There are plenty of other reasons you might have oily skin, a few of which we have control over.

Diet

One of the areas you can definitely control is your diet. Making sure you eat a healthy, balanced diet containing vital vitamins and minerals (hopefully through fruits and vegetables) could reduce oily skin. Consuming oily, greasy goods is not only bad for your health but could be one of the causes of your oily complexion.

Over-washing

In an effort to get rid of your oily skin you might think washing your face repeatedly can control your oily t-zone (or whole face). However, over-washing can be a common cause for out-of-control oily skin. It may feel intuitive to scrub your face whenever you see it shining but it's really easy to be overzealous with your favourite skin products.

Scrubbing your skin too hard and too often with certain materials, tools or harsh exfoliators strips the skin of moisture and causes your glands to overproduce oil. Using a gentle exfoliating face wash such as NIVEA Perfect & Matte Effect Oil Control Face Wash daily works wonders for oily skin care, following up with NIVEA Perfect & Matte 3-in-1 Mattifying Day Cream to lock in the moisture and keep the oil at bay for a 12-hour shine-free look for that matte look leaving no white residue. After all, regardless of your skin type, your skin is a delicate organ which should be treated with care.

How to get rid of oily skin

To suggest that there is an instant, cure-all oily skin remedy is unrealistic and inaccurate. However, there are plenty of healthy habits, preventative measures and NIVEA products which will certainly alleviate it. Follow our oily skin care tips below for fabulous, sheen-free skin.

Hormones & medicine

There are some medicines that can increase oil production and cause oily skin. On the flip side, coming off some of these medications can cause your skin to change as your hormones balance settles. Similarly, certain steroids have been noted to cause oily skin. Other medications may cause dehydration as a side effect - which could result in excess sebum. Make sure to check with your doctor on the possible side effects of medication.

Hormones can fluctuate especially in your teenage years. This can often stimulate oil. Puberty, menstruation, pregnancy and menopause are phases of life associated with oily skin as are times of extreme stress or illness.

How to Manage Oily Skin

Stay Hydrated

A top tip for your skin health in general, not only for those who suffer from oily skin, is to remain hydrated. After all, your skin is an organ made up of cells, and cells are made up of water and without water, the skin can't function at its best! Ultimately, dehydrated skin will produce excess sebum in an attempt to keep itself moisturised. So, ensure you keep your water bottle topped up!

Don't Stop With the Moisturiser

A common misconception with oily skin is that a moisturiser or serum will only make it greasier. As mentioned previously, if your skin is dehydrated this can cause it to overcompensate and produce more sebum than it would usually - so an easy way to try and reduce oily skin is keep that skin moisturised. A light moisturising day cream is ideal for keeping your skin's moisture levels topped up.

Cotton Pads

As most people who have an oily skin will attest, cotton pads will be your best friend. If you’re not aware of them already, cotton pads can be a great temporary measure to reduce shine and oil. They are designed to absorb oil on the skin.

Wash your makeup brushes

Remember your makeup brushes and sponges can be a haven for bacteria. They often collect dead skin and oils, which spread to your face when you use them. Either wash them regularly or replace them as often as you can to avoid transferring bacteria to your face.

Oily Skin can serve a purpose

Oily skin can be a pain, but even though you know how to get rid of it, it doesn't mean you should be doing it all the time. Sebum actually serves an important purpose in maintaining skin health. It makes sure skin is kept moist and soft, as well as helping your skin's natural protective barrier. Follow the above oily skincare tips and tricks to get rid of oily skin.

Advantages of Oily Skin

Controlling the sheen is one thing but having some oil in/on your skin has its benefits. Oily skin is actually more resistant to wrinkles, minimising their appearance in oil-heavy zones. Oily skin also tends to be smoother and thicker, sebaceous glands can improve the thickness of your inner skin layer leading to a smoother more resilient layer of skin.

Avoid Drying Out Skin

Make sure you don't over do it. Dry skin causes its own issues and can lead to signs of premature ageing. Use a healthy amount of moisturiser suited for your skin type to keep the oil at the right levels.