This skin-type usually has open pores and an oily surface, with a tendency towards pimples, black-heads and a sallow appearance. This is due to the over-production of the oily substance called sebum by the oil glands in the lower layers of the skin. Unfortunately, this skin-type is the one most prone to acne. The good news is that this oiliness will make your skin stay younger-looking for longer- so there are some benefits!
SPECIAL CARE FOR YOUR SKIN
It’s important not to treat only skin too harshly, although this can be tempting when you’re faced with a fresh outbreak of pimples. Over-enthusiastic treatment can encourage the oil glands to produce even more sebum, whilst it will leave the surface layers dry and dehydrated.
The best care way to care for oily skin is to use products that gently cleanse away oils from the surface and unblock pores, without drying out and damaging it. The visible part of your skin actually needs water, not oil, to stay soft and supple.
ACNE ALERT
Anyone who has acne knows what a distressing condition it is. It usually appears in our lives at the one time when we’re already feeling insecure-adolescence. As well as being a problem that runs in families, it’s thought to be triggered by a change in hormones, which results in more sebum being produced by your skin. It can also be aggravated by stress, poor lifestyle and poor skin-care.
Careful skin-care will help keep acne under control. Avoid picking at pimples, as this can lead to scarring. Try over-the-counter blemish treatments. Today’s formulations contain ingredients that are very successful at treating this problem. Products containing tea tree oil can be very effective. If these aren’t successful, consult your doctor who may be able to provide treatment, or can refer you to a dermatologist.
1 Even though the remainder of your face is prone to oiliness, always remember that the skin around your eyes is very delicate, so don’t drag at it when removing your eye make-up. Soak a cottonwool (cotton) pad with a non-oily remover and hold over your eyes for a few seconds to give it time to dissolve the make-up. Then lightly stroke away the mascara and make-up from the eyelids, and your upper and lower lashes.
2 Lather up with a gentle foaming facial wash. This is a better choice than ordinary soap, as it won’t strip away moisture from your skin, but it will remove grime, dirt and oil. Massage gently over damp skin with your finger-tips, and then rinse away the soapy suds with lots of warm water.
3 Soak a cottonwool (cotton) ball with a refreshing astringent lotion. Sweep it over your skin to refresh and cool it. This liquid should not irritate or string your skin – if it does, swap to a products with a gentler formulation or water your existing one down with some distilled water from the pharmacist. Continue until the cottonwool (cotton) comes up completely clean.
4 Even oily skin need moisturiser, because a moisturiser helps seal water into top layer to keep the skin soft and supple. However, don’t load the skin down with a very heavy formulation. Instead, choose a light, watery fluid as this will enough for you.
5 Allow the moisturiser to sink into your skin for a few minutes, then press a clean tissue over your face to absorb the excess, and to prevent a shiny complexion.
