Biggest Mistakes People with Oily Skin Make

Biggest Mistakes People with Oily Skin Make

Oily skin can be frustrating. You have a shiny complexion and clogged pores, and are prone to developing acne. While proper skin care can help manage these concerns, many people unknowingly make mistakes that exacerbate their issues.

Let’s explore the most common missteps and how to replace them with healthier habits.

Over-Cleansing

The Mistake:

People with oily skin often feel that frequent cleansing solves their problems. They assume that washing their face equals washing off the oil. Unfortunately, over-cleansing disrupts the skin’s natural balance.

By stripping away essential natural oils, the skin perceives itself as dry and triggers the sebaceous glands to overcompensate by producing more oil. This process leads to a vicious cycle: the more you cleanse, the oilier your skin becomes. Moreover, over-cleansing can compromise the skin barrier, causing irritation, redness, and even breakouts.

The Fix:

Limit cleansing to twice daily—once in the morning to remove overnight buildup and once in the evening to clean away dirt, oil, and makeup. After cleansing, gently pat dry your skin with a clean towel instead of rubbing.

Using Heavy Creams or Oily Products

The Mistake:

Many people assume all moisturisers are good for the skin, but heavy creams or products with high oil content are counterproductive for oily skin. These products can sit on the skin’s surface, clogging pores and worsening greasiness. Overly oily skin will increase the risk of breakouts and blackheads and give a shiny appearance.

The Fix:

Select lightweight moisturisers specifically formulated for oily skin. Consider those with labels like “matte finish” or “oil control” to control the greasy appearance.

Picking or Squeezing Pimples

The Mistake:

Pimples can be frustrating, and the urge to pick or squeeze them can be overwhelming. However, this habit introduces bacteria and dirt from your hands into your pores, leading to more inflammation and potential scarring. Moreover, squeezing pimples can push bacteria deeper into the skin, worsening the breakout.

The Fix:

Leave blemishes alone and allow them to heal naturally. Instead of squeezing, apply spot treatments with proven acne-fighting ingredients. Consult an oily skin specialist for professional treatment if a pimple is persistent or painful.

Skipping Moisturiser

The Mistake:

A common misconception among people with oily skin is that skipping moisturiser will keep their skin matte. However, when your skin lacks hydration, it tries to make up for the dryness by producing more oil, leading to an even shinier and oilier complexion. Dehydrated skin can also become flaky, which clogs pores and exacerbates breakouts.

The Fix:

Moisturising is a must in any skincare routine, regardless of skin type. Use a lightweight moisturiser that hydrates your skin without leaving it greasy.

Using Alcohol-Based Toners

The Mistake:

Alcohol-based toners are marketed as quick fixes for oily skin, claiming to shrink pores and absorb oil. While these toners provide a temporary matte look, they strip away natural oils, causing your skin to overcompensate with even more oil production. Prolonged use of such products can also lead to dryness, sensitivity, and irritation.

The Fix:

Swap alcohol-based toners for gentler, hydrating alternatives. Toners containing soothing ingredients like witch hazel or aloe vera are excellent for calming the skin and maintaining its balance.

Not Changing Pillowcases and Towels

The Mistake:

Oily skin is more prone to congestion and breakouts, and dirty pillowcases and towels can worsen the problem. These items absorb oil, sweat, and bacteria, which can transfer back onto your skin during use. This can lead to clogged pores, increased oil production, and persistent breakouts.

The Fix:

Wash your pillowcases and towels at least once a week using a mild detergent. For those with particularly acne-prone skin, consider switching to silk pillowcases, which are gentler and less likely to harbour bacteria.

Using Too Many Products at Once

The Mistake:

The temptation to use multiple skincare products simultaneously to get quicker results is common. However, layering too many products can overwhelm your skin, clogging pores, irritating the skin, and disrupting the skin barrier.

The Fix:

We recommend a minimalist approach to skincare. Focus on a few high-quality, proven products tailored to oily skin. Stick to a consistent morning and evening routine that includes cleansing, moisturising, and targeted treatments.

Healthy Habits for Oily Skin

Managing oily skin requires a consistent and thoughtful skincare routine focusing on balance. Here’s how you can keep your skin healthy and oil production under control:

Use a Gentle Cleanser

A good cleanser is fundamental to any skincare routine. Choose one specifically formulated for oily skin to wash away excess oil, dirt, and impurities without stripping the skin of its natural moisture. Harsh cleansers can disrupt the skin’s protective barrier, prompting an overproduction of oil to compensate.

What to Look For:

  • Ingredients like salicylic acid to unclog pores and control oil production.
  • Tea tree oil is favoured for its antimicrobial properties.
  • Sulphate-free formulas that are gentle yet effective.

How to Use It:

Cleanse your face twice a day—once in the morning and once at night. Avoid overwashing, as this dries out your skin and exacerbates oiliness.

Exfoliate Regularly

Exfoliation is crucial for preventing dead skin cells from building up on the skin and clogging pores. However, striking a balance is essential; over-exfoliating can irritate the skin and trigger higher oil production.

Opt for Chemical Exfoliants:

  • Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (AHAs): Help remove surface-level dead skin cells, promoting a brighter complexion.
  • Beta-Hydroxy Acids (BHAs): Penetrate deeper into the pores, removing excess oil and debris.

Frequency:

Exfoliate two to three times a week, depending on your skin’s tolerance. Avoid using abrasive physical scrubs, which can cause micro-tears and irritation.

Apply Oil-Free Moisturisers

Moisturising is a must, even for oily skin. Skipping this step can dehydrate your skin, prompting it to produce more oil. The key is to select a moisturiser that hydrates without clogging pores or adding shine.

Ideal Features:

  • Lightweight, gel-based formulas.
  • Non-comedogenic and oil-free products.
  • Ingredients like ceramides and glycerin lock in moisture without greasiness.

Pro Tip:

Apply moisturiser immediately after cleansing to help lock in hydration and keep your skin balanced.

Use Blotting Papers

Blotting papers are quick and effective for controlling shine throughout the day. They absorb excess oil without smearing your makeup or stripping your skin of moisture.

How to Use Them:

  • Gently press a blotting paper onto oily areas, such as your T-zone, instead of rubbing.
  • Avoid overusing them, as this can sometimes stimulate oil production.

Wear Sunscreen

Sun protection is necessary for all skins, including oily skin. While some sunscreens can feel heavy and greasy, plenty of lightweight, non-comedogenic options are available.

What to Look For:

  • Broad-spectrum protection (SPF 30 or higher).
  • Oil-free, gel-based, or water-based formulas.
  • A matte finish to prevent shine.

Pro Tip:

Reapply sunscreen outdoors every 2–3 hours, especially after sweating or swimming.

Consider Treatment Products

Introducing targeted treatments into your routine can help manage specific oily skin concerns, such as acne, large pores, or excessive shine.

Effective Ingredients:

  • Retinoids: Reduce oil production and improve skin texture.
  • Niacinamide: Regulates sebum production and soothes inflammation.
  • Clay Masks: Absorb oil and detoxify pores without over-drying.

Usage:

Introduce treatment products slowly to avoid irritation. Start with 2–3 times per week and increase frequency as your skin adapts.

Maintain a Consistent Skincare Routine

Consistency is the secret to healthy, balanced skin. Jumping from one product to another or skipping steps in your routine can disrupt your skin’s natural rhythm and exacerbate oiliness.

The Basic Routine for Oily Skin:

  1. Morning: Cleanse, tone, apply a lightweight moisturiser, and finish with sunscreen.
  2. Evening: Cleanse, treat (e.g., with a clay mask or retinoid), and moisturise.
  3. Weekly: Incorporate exfoliation and a purifying mask into your routine.

Pro Tip:

Track how your skin reacts to new products and adjust your routine as needed. Avoid trying too many new items at once, making it harder to identify what works for you.

OxyGeneo® Carbon Intense Facial for Oily Skin

Oxygeneo Carbon Intense Facial

For those looking for a targeted solution for oily skin, consider professional treatments like the OxyGeneo® Carbon Intense Facial. This facial offers deep cleansing and addresses excess oil production, providing longer-lasting results.

OxyGeneo® Carbon Intense Facial is a clinically proven treatment designed to address oily skin challenges. This facial purifies and soothes the skin while enhancing its texture and appearance.

Benefits:

  • Purifies pores
  • Balances oily skin
  • Improves skin texture
  • Softens the look of fine lines and wrinkles
  • Creates a shine-free matte complexion

What to Expect:

Double Cleansing

The specialist will begin the treatment with a double cleanse to remove the day’s buildup and prepare the skin for optimal absorption of active ingredients.

Balancing OxyPod

This step uses bamboo charcoal to detoxify the skin, Camu-Camu extract for its antioxidant properties, and Mandelic Acid to tackle acne.

Balancing Serum

A powerful serum is applied, packed with antioxidants, salicylic acid, peptides, jojoba, argan oil, and horsetail extract to purify and nourish the skin.

Charcoal Mask

The facial concludes with a charcoal mask that rebalances and mattifies the skin’s oil and hydration levels. This luxurious yet effective treatment leaves the skin feeling fresh, purified, and matte, making it ideal for those with oily skin.

Regular Maintenance with Oily Face Treatment in Singapore

Caring for oily skin requires a balanced approach, combining mindful daily habits with professional treatments. Avoiding common mistakes can significantly improve your skin’s health and appearance.

For a deeper, more targeted solution, regular professional treatments like the OxyGeneo® Carbon Intense Facial at SkinLab The Medical Spa provide long-term benefits by addressing the root causes of oily skin while enhancing its texture and radiance. With the right combination of at-home care and expert guidance, you can manage oily skin effectively and confidently and embrace a healthier, more balanced glow.

Book an oily face treatment today.

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