Despite the fact that oily skin is prone to blocked pores, black heads and spots it is important never to strip the skin. Natural oils are a fabulous protection from the environment and from premature aging. Oily skin is flexible, smooth and youthful so those with oily skin are lucky.
Skin can be oily at different times in life, especially in teenage. Many people who once had oily skin find that by the time they reach 40 or 50, the skin has dried out a lot. For this reason it is important to keep a check on oily skin, especially when using clarifying products. If skin is becoming dryer then switch to something more hydrating or less clarifying as this will prevent skin from eventually becoming stripped.
Foaming Cleanser
A foaming cleanser is essential for anyone who likes a fresh, squeaky clean feeling and is also excellent for younger skins. A good one can help keep skin super-clean and prevent an excess of sebum from building up and blocking pores.
- Even if prone to spots, make sure to get a gentle foaming cleanser that does not contain a harsh soap base. Check ingredients carefully as cheap detergents strip the top layer of skin but fail to unclog pores. This is the worst of both worlds. The same applies to foam boosters which cause a product to foam excessively, imparting a psychological feeling of cleanliness. Look rather for cleansers containing ingredients which really detox such as Ren's Mayblossom and Cypress cleansing gel, or products which are packaged in an eco-foam container like Caudalie's foaming cleanser.
- Do not use medicated or herbal cleansers to take off eye make-up as this can irritate or strip delicate skin.
Oil Cleanser:
A good oil cleanser gives a much deeper cleanse than a gel and yet does not dehydrate. These are essential for make-up wearers. Rather than using detergent to inefficiently break the make-up down, these slip under it and dissolve it resulting in a deeper clean.
- Look for a top quality oil cleanser which does not rely on cheap mineral oil as a base. It is important that the formula emulsifies well with water, leaving no deposit on the skin. Try Nude Cleansing Oil for a healthy, aromatic detox.
- Use an oil cleanser at night time to properly remove dirt or make-up and get the fresh feel of a foaming gel wash in the morning.
- A cloth can be used to aid in removing an oil cleanser. If prone to spots and blemishes then do not scrub the skin with the cloth and change or wash frequently to prevent the spread of bacteria.
Light Moisturizer:
Those with very greasy or teenage skin may choose an oil-free moisturizer but this does not have to be the case as many natural oils do not clog pores. Essential oils often have antibacterial properties so can help to prevent spots.
- Choose a moisturizer that absorbs well and does not leave skin sticky.
- Gel moisturizers offer a cool, fresh, non greasy feeling.
- Many creams also have a lotion equivalent for light comfort.
- Anti-aging creams used to be heavy formulas for ancient wrinkles. Now many brands recognize that not all mature skin is lacking in oil so there are anti aging lotions now available.
- If skin gets clogged easily, use a moisturizer in the daytime and leave the skin bare at night to breathe.
Gel Serum:
Serums penetrate the skin deeper and can do anything from providing a vitamin boost to brightening, hydrating or firming. Choose a serum for any reason but make sure that it is a non-greasy, fully absorbing formula before buying.
- Oily skin can still get dehydrated so use a gel serum like Chantecaille's Vital Essence to keep skin hydrated even when a moisturizer feels too much.
Exfoliator:
Exfoliating the skin rids it of dead cells and particles which can block pores so it is important in banishing blackheads and spots. It helps products penetrate properly, being more efficient and lasting longer. Exfoliating will reveal smooth, clean and glowing skin.
- Anyone who gets spots should not use a physical scrub as this will irritate as well as spreading bacteria. Look for an enzyme or acid product to give a clean exfoliation instead. Try Natura Bisse's Glyco Peel or Aveda's Exfoliant.
- Some cleansers contain glycolic or salicylic acid fo a gently daily exfoliation on acne prone or very greasy skins.
Deep Cleansing Clay Mask:
For a squeaky clean feeling a deep cleansing mask absorbs excess oil and tones the skin.
- Use a day after the exfoliation for super radiant skin.
- Some clay masks contain added benefits from herb extracts or essential oil which aid oily skin in getting a thorough detox.
- For those prone to dehydration, try a soothing non-drying mask such as Chantecaille's Clay, Rosemary and Honey formula.
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