Prevent and Reduce Oily Skin on Face

Prevent and Reduce Oily Skin on Face

Many people struggle with oily or greasy skin, especially on their faces. Oily skin can be frustrating, especially when it causes other skin problems like acne and spots.

Oily skin occurs when the sebaceous glands produce more oil than usual, leading to an imbalance in your system. Some excessive oil production is hereditary, but other factors that can lead to oily skin are stress, hormonal shifts, high humidity, travel, pollution, certain cosmetic products, birth control pills, poor diet, and improper skin care. There are things you can do to try and dry out your skin but it is very important to treat the underlying problem. This can range from altering your lifestyle or cleansing regimen to improving your overall diet.

If you suffer from excessively oily skin, there are some simple tips you can follow to help reduce or even resolve the issue, and improve the health of your skin:

Stop washing your face so much. 

Wash it only twice a day: in the morning and before you sleep. Washing your face too often prompts the sebaceous glands to produce even more oil. The oil in your face (technically known as sebum) is there because it lubricates and protects your skin. When you wash your face too often, your glands respond by producing more oil to protect it.

Use lukewarm water.

Every time you wash your face, try to use warm water because it relaxes your face and treats it gently. Cold or hot water dries out the skin.

Use facial care products.

Use cleansers that are specifically designed for oily or acne-prone skin. You can also use natural products you can find in your kitchen, like honey.

Use oil-free moisturizers and sun-screen.

Moisturizers can help protect your face from oil and from the sun, but make sure you are using oil-free products or the problem may be exacerbated.

Drink plenty of water.

Hydration is important for keeping your skin healthy. Drink 8 glasses of water, or about 2 liters of water, daily. Stay away from from carbonated beverages or alcohol - they will make the problem worse.

Use a gentle facial scrub twice a week.

This will not only clear away dead skin cells, but also help rejuvenate your face and allow clean healthy skin to shine through.

Reduce your intake of sugar, salt, and fried food.

Your diet influences the health of your skin. The healthier you eat, the healthier you look!

Eat healthy foods.

Eat plenty of fresh fruits and green vegetables. Consume low fat products, protein rich foods, and whole grains. Fish contains oil that will help your skin look good as well. This does not mean that the oil you eat is the oil that is produced from your skin! Oily food does affect your skin and overall health in general though.

Apply lavender or witch hazel to reduce acne.

Applying lavender oil to pimples will kill bacteria and help the skin to heal. If you have delicate or sensitive skin, dilute the oil with some Aloe Vera gel. Witch hazel can be used as an all natural toner for your skin. If you already use a toner, try switching to witch hazel instead. You can apply it with cotton balls then let it dry.

Live healthier.

Generally improving your quality of life will improve the quality of your skin. Exercise more, reduce stress and sleep well. Take care of your physical and mental well-being!