When you read the title, you probably wondered how greasy skin covered in pimples and blackheads could have any benefits at all. Perhaps, the best portrayal of people’s reactions to oily, acne-prone skin is a look of disgust. What many people do not know is that there are actually some benefits to oily skin. So, if you have oily skin, it’s time that you learn to embrace your face.
You may be surprised to learn that those with oily skin have a stronger skin defense system and skin that looks youthful longer! Oily skin produces more amounts of a waxy substance called sebum, which contains the antioxidant Vitamin E for smoother and fresher skin, and it defends your skin from infections and water loss. In some ways, oily skin also acts a free anti-wrinkle cream. The smoothing effects of sebum and Vitamin E, in combination with the tendency for oily skin to be thicker than other skin types help to ward off wrinkles. One final benefit to oily skin is that it is naturally shiny; all a girl needs to make it look dewy is cleanse it and use some type of mattifying moisturizer and powder.
Finals is a crazy time for us oily-skinned girls, because we become even more acne-prone due to the stress and large caffeine intakes. So here are some tips to take advantage of the benefits of your oily skin:
- Find a good skin routine and stick with it.
Avoid greasy products that clog pores and any products containing alcohol. Find a gentle cleanser to remove makeup without stripping your skin of the good oils it already contains. Look for moisturizers and other products that contain salicylic acid. You may even decide to use oil, such as tea tree oil or peppermint oil to cleanse your face. Either way, you should find your own skincare routine because there are many options out there, and people have different preferences. Don’t be afraid to experiment so you can personally find out what works best!
- Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize!
Even though oily skin already contains lots of moisture, you should moisturize to help your skin balance the drying effects of anti-acne medicated cleansers, cream, or oils that you use. When the weather gets cooler, moisturizing your skin is even more important!
- Wear sunscreen.
Who likes wearing sunscreen? I don’t. But, it’s important to protect your skin from the damaging effects the sun can have on your skin. If you’re like me and you don’t like wearing sunscreen every day, find a makeup or moisturizer that contains at least SPF 15, but SPF 30 is ideal. However, if you’re going to be out in the sun for an extended period of time, make sure to by a bottle of sunscreen that won’t irritate your skin.
- Don’t feel bad about covering up your skin.
It took me forever to find a good foundation that didn’t clog my pores or cause more breakouts. I highly recommend Almay or Neutrogena, because both brands carry some specially formulated foundations for blemish-prone skin. These foundations contain salicylic acid, too, which helps dry out the areas of your skin covered in acne. Almay has a Clear Complexion line just for oily skin girls. This line carries concealer, foundation, and powder, all containing salicylic acid. I love how Almay products are hypoallergenic, made in America and are not tested on animals. With products like this, you can look good and feel good about wearing makeup!
- No harsh rubbing!
I used to vigorously wash my face, thinking that if I washed it hard enough, my acne would go away. Don’t do this. This only irritates your skin more and causes additional, unwanted redness and flare-ups. I highly recommend a micellar water, to remove makeup from your skin and to cleanse it from the day-to-day bacteria and dirt that builds up on your skin. Soak a cotton pad with whatever brand of micellar water you use (I like Garnier’s), press it on your skin, and lightly wipe away. It’s as simple as that, and you don’t even need water! You can also remove makeup with the same oils you would use to cleanse your face, or with almond or coconut oil.
- Exfoliate!
Use a fruit-infused exfoliant 2-3 times a week such as St. Ives’ Apricot Scrub to remove dead skin cells and revitalize your skin. Charcoal scrubs do a great job, too!
- A tip before you sip:
You’ve probably heard this before, but drink water, and lots of it. Cells absorb the water you drink and become plumper, allowing for smoother and younger looking skin from the inside-out. Limit your intake of caffeinated drinks (coffee, soda, etc.) or any drinks containing alcohol, as these dehydrate the body and can even worsen one’s skin condition.