Oily skin remedies

Oily skin is a common skin type that, unfortunately, causes quite a few problems. This type of complexion makes the skin look greasy and dull and it is prone to acne and other blemishes. People who have oily skin need to know how to improve its appearance and make it look smooth, fresh and young.

What is oily skin?

Oily skin is a skin type characterized by excessive production of oil or sebum from the sebaceous glands. Sebum has its purpose and without it the skin would be dry and prone to damages, but when there is too much sebum, the skin has a greasy appearance, dirt and bacteria stick to it, pores get clogged and pimples, whiteheads and blackheads become a common nuisance.

Several factors contribute to oily skin, the most prominent being heredity, climate, environment, hormonal shifts, cosmetics and certain medications. Oily skin characteristic for adolescence, but in some people it persists through the entire life.

Oily skin care

Oily skin requires special care. It should be cleaned and washed more often, using appropriate products, mild soaps and warm water. It is best to clean the skin two or more times a day.

Cosmetic products and make-up should be water-based and not oil-based. Make-up should always be removed before bedtime. Exfoliating products and scrubs are highly recommended, because they remove dead skin cells and unclog the pores.

As for the moisturizers, they should be as natural as possible, with no perfumes or colors. It is recommended to use antiseptic moisturizers once a day, especially those containing benzyl peroxide.

Oily skin remedies

Many people who have oily skin choose natural remedies instead of manufactured cosmetics, because they do not irritate the skin and contain only natural ingredients.

A mixture of equal amounts of apple juice and lime juice can be very beneficial for the oily skin if applied to the face as a lotion, using a cotton ball. The face should be rinsed with warm water after 15 or 20 minutes, following with a quality moisturizer.

A similar remedy, made of equal amounts of water and lemon juice, can be used for washing the face once or twice a day.

Clay masks are particularly recommended for oily skin because they soak up the excess sebum and deeply cleanse the pores. Green clay powder is available in drugstores and supermarkets, and it can be mixed with water or honey. Clay masks should stay on the face until they dry up completely and the skin starts to feel tight.

Aloe vera gel is also very beneficial for oily skin. It has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties and it helps with acne too.

Other great remedies for oily skin include fresh tomatoes, yogurt, mashed papaya and crushed strawberries.