Did you know that women with oily skin tend to age more slowly than women with dry skin? It’s all down to sebum or oil production – those with higher levels can enjoy softer, suppler skin and protection against damage caused by skin drying out excessively. Despite this good news, oily skin can be a cosmetic nightmare. Many women with combination or oily skin spend most of their time trying to conceal or combat it – usually employing a range of ‘tried and tested’ techniques that can often do more harm than good.
In today’s blog we de-bunk oily skin myths once and for all – with sound advice to help you to make the most of and enjoy your natural complexion without damaging it for the future.
Don’t cleanse more than twice a day
Thanks to some rather questionable ‘advice’ bandied around for several years many people believe that washing skin with ‘stripping’ products or harsh cleansers will ramp up oil production in the long-term, even if there is a short-term mattifying or ‘drying’ effect. In fact the skin’s oil production is a biological process which is regulated internally – so topical creams and washes can’t change that for better or worse. It’s worth being mindful of ingredients that may excessively dry out or damage your skin however. Even when you’re using the gentlest cleanser, you can strip away natural oils in excess when you wash your skin too frequently. Stick to natural products that have been dermatologically tested and verified, and cleanse just once a day where possible.
Don’t skip the day cream
People with oily skin tend to skip the moisturiser – after all, your skin is producing its very own, all-natural protective barrier against dryness and chapping, right? Partially, yes – during summer months especially this can be highly effective and beneficial, allowing your skin to breathe. However caution must be exercised with this method – as oily skin can still become dry, dehydrated and damaged – and as it doesn’t look or feel that way it’s more difficult to spot. You’ll also miss out on the additional benefits of a cream or serum – such as additional nutrients and vitamins designed to target signs of ageing. Opt for a lightweight moisturiser or serum incorporating additional ingredients to boost natural hydration levels within the skin and combat clogged pores.
Strip down your daily routine
It can be tempting to use lots of different products when tending to oily skin. But this can confuse and irritate – leading to potential damage and acceleration of the ageing process further down the line. Many people mistakenly believe that oilier skin is more robust and doesn’t require care and attention like dry skin – but it can in fact be just as sensitive. Choose several core products that work and stick to them – one cleanser, one toner and moisturisers and serums for day and night. Opt for gentle, natural formulas that have been clinically developed for best results.
