If you run through a pack of blotting papers faster than how people run through the shrimp at a cookout, you’re probably suffering from a serious case of oily skin. I usually consider my overactive pores a blessing — at least I stay with a natural glow. No matter how “dewy” my skin may look on a regular basis, there are plenty of times where my oily skin can get out of hand, and look downright greasy. That’s when I stop what I’m doing, put down the toner, and call for back-up. Here are 8 Ways to Combat Oily Skin like a boss!
Cleanse Wisely
Of course, cleansing skin is extremely important in the grand scheme of skincare maintenance. But did you know that over cleansing can lead to additional oil build up? Stripping skin of too much oil can cause it to compensate with more oil production, leading to more zits (talk about a vicious cycle). Try an oil-free cleanser, like Neutrogena’s Oil-Free Acne Wash (Neutrogena.com, $5.99).
Exfoliate Weekly
Exfoliating can help to clear pores of build up, which can contribute to breakouts. Once per week, add in a great exfoliator, like Clinique’s Exfoliating Scrub (Macys.com, $21) to remove dead skin cells, minimize breakouts, reduce the appearance of pores and help keep oil production in check.
Mask Like You Mean It!
Masks can be super helpful in calming over active skin, as well as helping to control build up and surface oils. I can’t get enough of the Special Mask for Oily Skin by Mario Badescu, (Ulta.com, $18), which is clutch in maintaining healthy skin with less congestion.
Use The Right Moisturizer
Don’t be scared to moisturize! Just because you have oily skin doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice moisture altogether. Use oil-free moisturizing products to hydrate skin without excess shine. I’m a huge fan of Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil-Free Lotion (Kiehls.com, $27).
…And the Right Sunscreen.
Sunscreen is key during warmer months, and just like moisturizer shouldn’t be sacrificed. Surprisingly, applying sunscreen can help control excessive oil and shine. A product, like Nia 24 Sun Damage Prevention 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 can be key. (Nia24.com, $49)
Mattify Like Your Life Depends On It
Matte makeup is an oily girl’s best friend. These types of products are the best to use to stop oil before it even starts without sacrificing coverage. A mattifying primer, like Maybelline FaceStudio Matte Prime Blur + Smooth Primer (Ulta.com, $9.99) is a great way to stop sheen in its tracks.
Recognize the Value of Powder (Makeup, that is)
What’s better than powder to combat oil and shine? Starting off with mattifying makeup is the key to having an oil-free complexion, but foundation powder is the best way to maintain a matte complexion. MAC’s Studio Plus Foundation is a great companion to have to any makeup in your arsenal (Maccosmetics.com, $27).
Blot, Blot, Blot!
Blotting papers (or Starbucks napkins) are the quickest ways to clean up on oily T-zone, and reduce shine without disturbing your makeup. Keep a fresh pack like Boscia’s Green Tea Blotting Linens in your purse for quick access. (Sephora.com, $10)
It took me YEARS to figure out how to care for my oily skin but I finally figured it out. Cleanse gently, exfoliate religiously and mattify, mattify, mattify with make-up.