Genetics, hormones, weather patterns – there are lots of factors that contribute to an oily complexion and, unfortunately, they are mostly out of our control. You may attempt to cover your oily skin with thick powders and matte makeup, but usually find that these products only succeed in clogging your pores and lead to frustrating break outs. If you are constantly battling oily skin, you’re certainly not alone. However, you can’t solve this problem by attempting to cover it up. Instead, you need to get to the root of the issue.
Don’t Over-Wash. Even if your skin feels slightly greasy to the touch, resist the urge to wash it more than twice a day. Washing your face too much will deprive your skin of the oil it needs and, instead of reaching a healthy balance, will force your glands to over-produce. Before you know it, you will have made your already oily complexion much worse.
Hands Off. Resting your chin on your hands during long hours at work or in class and touching your face every time you step in front of a mirror will only contribute to face oil. Besides the fact that our hands are perpetually covered in grime and bacteria, the oil from your finger tips can easily transfer to your face.
Use the Right Products. There are tons of facial cleansers that claim to “cut the grease” – but may include ingredients that dry out skin too much and cause redness and irritation. Instead, use a gentle cleanser, a toner and an oil-free moisturizer twice daily. When choosing cosmetics, select only oil-free products and consider switching to an oil-control primer formula that can help you create a more even skin tone – such as bareMinerals Prime Time Oil Control Foundation Primer ($23 bareescentuals.com).
While we may not be able to stop the ill effects of Mother Nature on our complexion, we can at least work to restore our skin to a beautiful, natural balance.
