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Most of us have combination skin: oily in some places, dry in others. If your skin feels on the oily side even after washing, or if you regularly use blotting paper, fear not! A bonus? People with oily skin are thought to have fewer wrinkles and keep younger-looking skin for longer. Plus, this guide will help you manage your oiliness.
What causes oily skin?
Hormones. During puberty, sebaceous glands enlarge and produce more oil under the influence of hormones called androgens.
Stress. Stress makes our bodies produce a stress hormone called cortisol, which triggers oil production.
Diet. Foods high in sugar or dairy can lead to oily faces.
Weather. As the temperature rises, oil glands tend to rev up!
Oil comes from sebaceous glands under the skin, which release a fatty substance called sebum. Sebum is generally a good thing: it keeps skin supple and reduces water loss. These glands are most densely clustered on the nose, chest, and back. Some people have more than others. Hormones, stress, diet, and weather can all affect your glands.
Top 5 skincare treatments to manage oily skin
1. Cleansers. Cleansers with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid help not only people with acne, but also those of us with oily skin. Foaming cleansers can also help dry things out. We recommend:
The Cleanser by Curology
Neutrogena Fresh Foaming Cleanser
Cerave Foaming Cleanser
Vanicream Free and Clear Liquid Cleanser
Topix Benzoyl Peroxide 10% Wash
Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash
Neutrogena Deep Clean Facial Cleanser
2. Oil-Free Sunscreen
EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46
Tizo Solar Protection Formula, Facial Mineral Fusion SPF 40
3. Oil-Absorbing Face Sheets
Clean & Clear
Boscia
NYX
4. Physical Exfoliators. These help remove oil and dead skin cells. Use exfoliators gently, no more than once a week at first, to avoid skin irritation.
Clarisonic devices
Konjac sponges
5. Niacinamide. Skincare products with this form of vitamin B3 may decrease oiliness.
CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30
EltaMD AM or PM Therapy Facial Moisturizer
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Custom Formula
Your dermatology provider will create a personalized formula with 3 active ingredients—picked for your skin’s unique needs.
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(billed every 2 months at $39.90).
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Custom Formula
Treatment cream for your skin goals
$19.95/month
Treatment cream for your skin goals
$19.95/month
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