Oily skin is often associated with teenage years, but it can affect any age. It can be an incredibly frustrating skin type!

What is oily skin?

In basic terms, oily skin is identified by an excess of oil (otherwise known as ‘sebum’) on the face caused by over-active sebaceous glands.

What are the causes of oily skin?

The predominant factor behind oily skin is genetics – our skin type is often hereditary. However, there are other causes to be aware of:

• Hormonal changes
• Exposure to products that upset the skin’s own natural balance
• Weather, particularly heat or humidity
• Stress
• Diet
• Cosmetics

How can you help prevent oily skin?

Oily skin needs to be nourished, just like any other skin type. Just be aware of keeping the process gentle (those with oily skin tend to want to ‘strip’ the skin, which exacerbates the problem).

Your daily skincare routine:

• Cleanse

This is a key step for removing oil from pores which can cause blackheads and breakouts. Always wash your skin in the morning and before bed. Some also like to wash their face around midday to control excess oil but beware of over-washing and stripping the skin. Blotting papers can be a great alternative throughout the day to remove excess oil.

• Tone

This is one of the most important steps if you suffer from oily skin. Toning completes the work of the cleanser by getting deep into your pores and removes excess oils which is key to regulating the skin. When selecting your toner, make sure the ingredients are gentle otherwise they can dry the skin – this will only cause your skin to produce more oil to combat the dryness.

• Moisturise

Don’t be tempted to skip this step! Moisturisers help keep our skin barrier intact and a lightweight lotion will ensure your skin keeps hydrated, encouraging your skin to produce less oil. Dryness is what spurs your skin into producing more oil!

The BeBarefaced Misbehaving Skin Bundle is a great option for taking care of oily skin. Including a Wash, Toner, Moisturiser and also an Overnight Gel, the natural ingredients are targeted at oily and blemish prone skin. Ingredients include salicylic acid, tea tree, seaweed and aloe to leave the skin looking wonderfully clear. This range is very gentle, suitable for sensitive skin and never stripping or drying.

Additional tips:

• Avoid products that clog the pores. Stay clear from ingredients such as mineral oil, mineral waxes and petrolatum. These ingredients block the skin and clog the pores.
• Apply SPF Always. Don’t be fooled by the drying effect of the sun – this can actually cause more oil production when your skin works to compensate for the dryness! We recommend using a lightweight, non-greasy sunscreen.
• Use a mask. A clay or mud mask used twice a week can help control oil production and leave your skin feeling soft, smooth, and shine-free.
• Consume less sugars and unhealthy oils and fats and more fruit, vegetables and lean proteins.
• Avoid heavy, pore-clogging cosmetic products and ingredients. Choose lighter formulations that focus on controlling oil and mattifying the skin.

SAVE 15% ON OUR MISBEHAVING SKIN BUNDLE