Oily skin is a hereditary condition that develops due to overactive sebaceous glands. This activity is controlled by the androgen, or masculine, hormone. Oily can be recognized by its shiny, thick, and firm appearance. Pores look enlarged, usually due to oil trapped in the philosebaceous follicle. Enlarged pores become aggravated with a dehydrated skin condition. An oily complexion tends to look dirty and uncared for with occasional blemishes on the chin or the forehead area and feels oily to the touch.
Hot & humid climates tend to exacerbate oil gland secretion, making the skin more oily. Oily skin problems can be aggravated by the misuse of skin care products and the tendency to dry the skin either through the use of harsh soaps od the excessive use of astringents or scrubs. Over stimulation of skin functions through scrubbing or stimulating massage should be avoided.
Oily skin can be classified into two subcategories:
Oily (without water deficiency)
Oily Dehydrated (with water deficiency)
In the first case the skin has proper hydration, while it feels and looks oily it does not have the sensation of dryness. In the second case the skin lacks moisture, all the characteristics of oily skin are present but the individual tends to complain of dry skin.
Often those with oily skin tend to use drying, dehydrating ingredients in an effort to feel "less oily" the end result is skin that feels flaky, rough and scaly. The usual thought when this type of condition develops is to "self diagnose" as a dry skin type and purchase products rich in oils. As the skin already has enough oil, these products only aggravate the oily condition and result in blemishes, blackheads, etc. It is not unusual for individuals with oily skin to conclude that they do not need moisturizer because they have oily skin. Thus, it is important to distinguish that oiliness comes from the oil glands and moisture from the intercellular channels.
Care of oily skin requires thorough yet gentle cleansing morning and evening. Daytime protective moisturizers will help the skin maintain its suppleness and moisture. Night creams, gels or lotions should help regulate oil gland secretion. It is essential to keep oily skin clean and hydrated with appropriate cleansing and care. Exfoliators such as AHA's or BHA's or the weekly use of an enzyme peel is highly recommended to help improve the look and texture of oily skin by reducing hyperkeratosis. When properly cared for this is the preferred skin type size the wrinkle process is delayed!
Active substances including botanicals that may help regulate or reduce oil gland secretions are highly beneficial. Suitable actives could include but are not limited to, royal jelly and vitamin F. Among the appropriate botanicals are rosemary, lemon oil, and lemon balm for their antiseptic and depurative action. All citrus which are antibacterial, antiseptic and astringent; rose hip for its antiseptic properties and ability to regulate oil gland secretion; sage which is antiseptic and antibacterial; yarrow, which has astringent and antiseptic properties; and mint and thyme which act as solvents on the fats and have additional action on the sebaceous glands.
Do you suffer from oily skin? What products are you using?
Lets talk! Email me and we can figure out budget friendly products and tips that will work great for you!
I will be talking about combination skin on the next blog post so make sure your subscribed!
Nat
xoxo
Comments