Oily Skin Care
Underneath the top layer of our skin, deep in the dermis layer, lies our sebaceous glands. These are the glands that produce the oil we see on our skin -- also called sebum. Sebum is made of fatty lipids. Oily skin is caused by over active sebaceous glands that end up producing more sebum/oil than is needed.
Sebum acts to protect and waterproof hair and skin, and keep them from becoming dry and cracked.
The sebaceous glands secrete more sebum in response to irritations, hormonal imbalances, stress, heat, humidity and some drugs such as antibiotics. These excess secretions of skin oils occur whenever a woman has fluctuating hormones -- puberty, pregnancy, beginning of each menstrual cycle, menopause -- as well as any physical or emotional upheavals or stresses.
On a more positive note, oily skin if taken care of, can age much slower that other skin types, giving a youthful glow well into older years.
Taking Care of Oily Skin
As with other skin types it is important to keep oily skin clean and free of dirt and grime. Cleanse frequently, 2-3 times a day, but do not use harsh soaps. It is okay to use hot water on oily skin, but still do not rub the skin aggressively. Anything applied to the skin that is harsh or abrasive will actually be counter productive, as it will stimulate the sebaceous glands to over produce oils.
Oil based cleansers are actually helpful in breaking up the sebum deposits and clogs in the pores of the skin. When it comes to moisturizers, however, use an oil-free or non-comengenic (non-clogging) moisturizers. We offer suggestions for cleansers and moisturizers specifically for oil skin on our anti aging skin care products page.
Don't forget that with the changing of the seasons your skin will demand special care relative to the season. Find out how to take care of your summer skin here.