Among the major skin types is oily skin, or flesh that feels greasy and is often more prone to breakouts. Oily skin can also look rough and feature large pores. Although most common amongst tweens and teens, many adults also find themselves combatting the stubborn condition. If you find yourself constantly blotting your face, here are a few skin care tips that might help. 

How to Address Oily Skin 

1. Wash Your Face With a Gentle Cleanser

Remove oil, pollutants, and makeup with a foaming cleanser rather than a cream-based one. Wash your face no more than twice a day to avoid stripping your skin of natural oils. Also, look for products with ingredients that suit your specific issues, such as salicylic acid for acne or fermented green tea extracts to even-out and brighten dull skin.

2. Control Oil With Astringent

Soak up excess oil and tighten pores with a quality astringent, a chemical that shrinks or constricts body tissues. Use gentle options that remove shine without drying out the skin, such as witch hazel. Keep in mind witch hazel and other alcohol-based toners irritate certain skin conditions such as rosacea. If you have this condition, chamomile tea is an excellent alternative that fights acne and soothes rosacea without drying the skin.

3. Use a Gentle Exfoliant

Keep oily skin free of dead skin cells and pore-clogging blackheads with an exfoliating skin care product. Stick to bead versions over harsh sugar scrubs and similar products, since they will exacerbate issues such as rosacea. Exfoliate once or twice a week using a gentle touch, and consider chemical peels if you’re a candidate for such skin care treatments.

4. Work With Lightweight Moisturizers

Oily skin still requires hydration, especially on cheeks which are often drier, but stick to lightweight gel moisturizers over heavy, oil-based creams. Additionally, use water-based skin care products to avoid adding extra oil to your face.

5. Opt for Water-Based, Noncomedogenic Makeup

Use water-based foundation and concealer, as well. Look for noncomedogenic brands that won’t irritate sensitive skin or clog pores, including those with SPF. Sunscreen protects skin from the drying, aging effects of the sun.

Control oily skin with help from Central Carolina Dermatology, the skin care treatment center serving the Triad area of North Carolina. Featuring three convenient locations in High Point, Lexington, and Kernersville, these dermatologists handle both common and serious skin care problems, from acne and varicose veins to skin cancer. Call (336) 887-3195 today to make an appointment or visit the center online for more information on their skin care treatments.