Oils produced by the body help keep skin healthy. But too much of a good thing can leave your face looking oily, which no one wants. Excess oil can also lead to blemishes and acne flare-ups. “Fortunately, there are definitely plenty of ways to cut down on oiliness,” says Andrea Cambio, MD, medical director of Cambio Dermatology in Cape Coral, Fla. Options range from over-the-counter cleansers to prescription lotions and cosmetic treatments. WebMD interviewed dermatologists from around the country to find out how they advise patients with oily skin. Here’s what they recommend.
Cleansers
Cleansing your face in the morning and at night is the single most effective way to manage oily skin, dermatologists agree. “Always use a gentle cleanser, since harsh soaps can trigger the skin to increase oil production,” says April Armstrong, MD, assistant professor of dermatology at the University of California, Davis.” Also, gently wash your face using your hands; a washcloth or buff puff can actually stimulate more oil secretion.
If a basic facial cleanser doesn’t do the trick, try a product that includes an acid such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or beta-hydroxy acid. Acids help cut oiliness. “Many products containing these acids are marketed as acne facial care products. They’re great for people with acne, but they’re also fine for people whose problem is just oily skin,” Armstrong tells WebMD. “Since some of these ingredients can be irritating, buy a small size to see how your skin responds. People often have to try several products before they find the one that works best for them.” When washing your face, use warm water, not hot. Extremes of temperature can also irritate skin.
Toners
Some people love the feeling of splashing on a skin toner, which can help further reduce oiliness. As with cleansers, products that contain salicylic acid or other acidic ingredients are most effective at removing oils. But dermatologists are divided on whether to recommend them to everyone. “I’m not a big fan of astringent toners because they tend to irritate the skin and can lead to more oil production,” says Cambio. “Still, if people like using them, I recommend applying toners only on oily areas of the skin, such as the forehead, nose, and chin. Avoid using them on areas that tend to be dry or you’re likely to create dry patches on your skin.”
That’s worth remembering for all your skin care regimens. “There’s a myth that some people have dry skin, some people have oily skin. In fact, most people have combination skin, oily in some places, dry in others,” says Ellen Marmur, MD, associate professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York and author of Simple Skin Beauty: Every Woman’s Guide to a Lifetime of Healthy, Gorgeous Skin.
