Oily Skincare: A Comprehensive Guide to Managing Oily Skin

Oily skin, characterized by excessive sebum production, can be a source of frustration and self-consciousness for many. While sebum plays a crucial role in protecting and moisturizing the skin, an overabundance can lead to a greasy appearance, enlarged pores, and breakouts.

Fortunately, with the right skincare routine and product choices, you can effectively manage oily skin and achieve a healthier, more balanced complexion. Oily skin is a common skin type, affecting individuals of all ages and ethnicities.

The primary cause of oily skin is an overactive sebaceous gland, which is responsible for producing sebum, the oily substance that lubricates and protects the skin. Excessive sebum production can be triggered by various factors, including genetics, hormonal imbalances, stress, and certain medications.

Procedures to Combat Oily Skin

While lifestyle changes and skincare can significantly improve oily skin, there are also several medical procedures that can be effective in controlling sebum production and reducing breakouts. These procedures include:

Comedone Extraction:

Comedone extraction works by using a special tool known as a comedone extractor to physically remove the blockages from the follicles. This type of acne treatment can only be used on acne that has not become inflamed, such as whiteheads and blackheads. It is a form of mechanical exfoliation, meaning that it physically removes acne blockages from the skin, through use of force.

Possible side effects of comedone removal include pain or discomfort, scarring and infection. Comedone extraction should only be conducted by a trusted professional. If comedone extraction is not done correctly there is a risk of pushing blockages deeper into the skin as well as a risk of skin damage and scarring.

Chemical Peels:

A chemical peel uses a chemical solution to remove layers of skin, revealing the more youthful skin underneath. Chemical peels can reduce or improve fine lines and wrinkles, acne, scars, uneven skin coloring and other skin imperfections. In the case of strong peels, it’s kept for a few hours in case of stay-on peels.

As a result, the skin gets exfoliated and tries to remove damaged cells. The skin layers eventually peel off revealing more youthful skin. The new skin is usually smoother with fewer lines and wrinkles, has a more even color and is brighter in complexion.

Laser Carbon Peel Therapy:

The laser carbon peel is a fast and painless procedure done to help improve the look of the skin. A carbon lotion is applied to a cleansed face and will cover all facial surface areas, excluding the eyes, with a particular focus on imperfections such as blackheads, open pores, and wrinkles. After the carbon has dried, the specialist will give you eye shields to protect your eyes from the laser. The esthetician will pass a laser, such as the Nd:YAG, over the skin on a low-energy setting. This heats up the carbon, binding it to the epidermis.

Carbon laser skin rejuvenation is especially effective for the treatment of the following skin imperfections: enlarged pores, acne and acne scars, pigmentation, melasma and hyperpigmentation, dull skin, blocked pores, and fine lines and wrinkles.

Laser carbon peels are typically very effective for improving the look of oily skin and large pores. If you have severe acne or acne scarring, it may take several treatments before you see full results. Fine lines and wrinkles should also be visibly diminished after one or more treatments. Laser carbon peels are painless, and require no recovery time. Other than mild and temporary redness, there are no reported side effects.

Microdermabrasion:

Microdermabrasion is a noninvasive cosmetic procedure. The specialist sprays or rubs fine crystals onto the skin with a wand that gently exfoliates the surface, removing the top layer. The aim is to make the skin appear younger. The procedure is not be painful and takes 30 to 40 minutes for the face and 20 minutes for the neck. Afterwards, there may be slight swelling or sunburn-like symptoms for a few days.

The goal of this procedure is to make a person’s complexion smoother, brighter, and more even in color. People often request microdermabrasion because it can offer solutions to: dullness in the complexion, uneven skin tone, uneven skin texture, photoaging, dark spots that can form after acne clears up, melasma – a common issue that forms dark spots or patches on the skin, and scar removal.

 

Establishing a Skincare Routine for Oily Skin

A well-structured skincare routine is the cornerstone of managing oily skin. Here’s a step-by-step guide to maintaining a healthy, balanced complexion:

Cleanse twice daily: Use a gentle, oil-free cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping the skin of its natural moisture. Avoid harsh soaps or detergents that can irritate the skin and trigger increased sebum production.

Exfoliate regularly: Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and reduce the appearance of enlarged pores. Aim to exfoliate 1-2 times per week, using a gentle exfoliating scrub or a chemical exfoliant like salicylic acid or glycolic acid.

Tone: Toning helps to remove any remaining impurities and balance the skin’s pH levels. Choose an alcohol-free toner that contains salicylic acid or witch hazel, which have astringent properties that can help tighten pores and reduce oiliness.

Moisturize: Contrary to popular belief, moisturizing is crucial for oily skin. A lightweight, oil-free moisturizer helps regulate sebum production and keeps the skin hydrated, preventing it from overproducing oil to compensate for dryness. Opt for a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer that is labeled “non-comedogenic,” meaning it won’t clog pores.

Use sunscreen daily: Sunscreen is crucial for protecting the skin from sun damage, which can worsen oily skin and lead to premature aging. Choose a sunscreen that is non-comedogenic and has an SPF30 or higher.

Product Recommendations for Oily Skin

Choosing the right skincare products can make a world of difference in managing oily skin. Here are some highly rated products that are specifically formulated for this skin type available in our shop:

Cleansers: CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser, La Roche-Posay Effaclar Gel, Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash

Exfoliators: The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution, Paula’s Choice BHA 2% Liquid Exfoliant, Stridex Single-Step Acne Pads

Moisturizers: CeraVe Oil-Free Lotion, La Roche-Posay Toleriane Sensitive Fluide, Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Cream

Sunscreens: EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen SPF 46, La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra-Light Fluid SPF 60, Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch SPF 50

 

Lifestyle Modifications: Complementing Your Oily Skincare Routine

While a dedicated skincare regimen is essential, lifestyle choices play an equally important role in managing oily skin. Here are some tips to complement your skincare efforts:

Diet: Avoid foods high in sugar and processed fats, as these can contribute to breakouts. Instead, focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Stress Management: Stress can exacerbate oil production. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as yoga, meditation, or spending time in nature.

Regular Exercise: Regular exercise can help improve overall skin health and reduce stress levels. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.

Use oil-free makeup products: Look for makeup labeled “non-comedogenic” or “oil-free” to avoid clogging your pores.

Change pillowcases frequently: Dirty pillowcases can transfer oil and bacteria to your skin, leading to breakouts.

Avoid touching your face: Hands carry dirt and bacteria that can clog pores and cause breakouts. Resist the urge to touch your face throughout the day to keep your skin clean.

Blotting Papers: Keep blotting papers handy to absorb excess oil throughout the day without disrupting your makeup.

 

Consistency is key to achieving and maintaining clear, healthy skin. By following these guidelines and incorporating a regular skincare routine, you can effectively manage oily skin and achieve a complexion that radiates confidence and beauty. Managing oily skin is not just about achieving a flawless complexion; it’s also about fostering a positive self-image. Book a session with Thrive Aesthetics in Nairobi today to discuss your skin needs and you can achieve a clearer, healthier complexion. Remember, your skin does not define you!