In the world of skincare, there are five main skin types: dry, oily, combination, normal and mature. One of the easiest skin types to identify is an oily skin. Why? Well, that’s because an oily skin is one that supplies an excess amount of oil (or sebum) This can be presented as a ‘wet’ or shiny appearance on the face. Typically, this oiliness is localized to the T-Zone, which is the forehead, nose, and chin area. Typically, a skin type is developed from birth- so a genetic pass down from a family member. However, there are certain contributing factors that may also cause this, such as: hormones, stress, or mechanical damage (for example, over exfoliating and stripping the skins barrier)
Oil Vs Moisture
Now this is important – oil and hydration is different. Oil is, well oil. Whereas hydration is the water content in the skin. It is very possible to have an oily skin but be lacking water at the same time. I.e. An oily skin does not mean a hydrated skin.
Why Oily Skins Need To Moisturize
Our skin is clever. Without moisturizer, the skin becomes used to that lack of hydration, and ends up overcompensating by applying more oil as a defense mechanism to protect the skins barrier. But that over production of oil just means an increase in congestion in the pores, and potentially acne formation. With that said, the ultimate key is to ensure you are hydrating the skin, but without adding extra oil.
Moisturizers For Oily Skin
Instead of skipping moisturizer all together, oily skins need to opt for moisturizers that are non-comedogenic, lightweight, and that won’t clog the pores. Below is my favorite moisturizer as someone who suffers with oily, acne prone skin:
Conclusion
So, to conclude, just because a skin type is oily, it by no means excludes them from moisturizer. Remember, moisturizing is the basic foundation to ensuring our skin is healthy and functioning in synergy with the rest of our active products. Just make sure that you are using moisturizers that are oil free, and lightweight – your skin will thank you in the long run!