What Are The Best Ingredients For Oily Skin?

People with oily skin know exactly what it's like to deal with greasy complexions, clogged pores, and shiny foreheads. While these struggles may sound tricky, managing oily skin doesn't have to be that hard. After all, skincare is a science and it all boils down to knowing the right ingredients. This way, you can build a routine that helps you control your oiliness and keep breakouts at bay. Of course, there's absolutely nothing wrong with having oily skin. In fact, dermatologists state that oil is integral to skin health, as it helps prevent water loss and strengthens your skin barrier. At the end of the day, it's best to strike a balance in your skin — that is, not too oily nor too dry.

So what are the best ingredients for oily skin? Keep reading as we enumerate some of them!

Retinol

Retinol is known as an anti-aging powerhouse, but it's great for those with oily skin too. It has the ability to accelerate cell turnover, sloughing off dead skin cells to bring in fresh, new ones. That means you don't have to worry about clogged pores or dull skin. There's a reason why dermatologists often prescribe topical vitamin A products or Retin-A to acne patients — it simply works.

Niacinamide

Also known as vitamin B3, niacinamide is another hardworking ingredient that comes with several benefits — from soothing and calming inflammation, to boosting collagen production and decreasing oiliness. Most notably, it's an antioxidant that fights off free radicals and environmental stressors from your skin. Some studies show that it can even reverse sun damage. So if you're oily-skinned and are always under the sun, niacinamide is an ingredient to keep on your radar. Just be sure to pair it with other sun protection, such as wearing sunglasses and slathering on sunblock — so you can prevent skin cancer, shield against UV rays, and maximize niacinamide overall.

Salicylic acid

Salicylic acid is one of the best ingredients you can use to prevent and eliminate acne. As a chemical exfoliant, salicylic acid also breaks down dead skin cells and gets deep into your pores to clear debris and dirt. Plus, salicylic acid is said to be lipophilic — which means it's attracted to oil and can effectively suck it out to unclog pores. Whether you're using it in your face wash, serum, or toner, your skin will be left feeling refreshed and clear.

Hyaluronic acid

No, hyaluronic acid is not just for those with dry skin. It's known for boosting the moisture levels in your skin, and this is something that all skin types will benefit from. Now, you might be wondering: why do you need extra hydration if your skin is already oily? Well, having oily skin is different from having hydrated skin. Without ample hydration, your skin will produce even more oil just to compensate. Incorporating hyaluronic acid in your regimen is a great way to deliver a dose of moisture without the added grease.

Clay

Whether it's kaolin, bentonite, or rose, clay is a must-have for oily skin. It's terrific at absorbing oil and leaving skin with a smooth, matte feel. Each of these clays have fine consistencies that feel comparable to velvet, as they suck up all that excess sebum while treating blackheads. Take note, however, that clay can also leave your skin feeling parched — especially if you happen to leave it on your skin for too long, or if you don't follow it up with a good moisturiser. Again, balance is always key.

Lemongrass

Lemongrass is known to help eliminate pests and relieve stress. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce redness, itching, and swelling of the skin. Its purifying properties can detoxify the skin and control shine by reducing oiliness. These benefits are why lemongrass is used in skincare products, including our Lively Lemongrass cleansing bar.

Spearmint

Drinking spearmint tea can help reduce inflammatory acne lesions. Having the most anti-inflammatory activity among other mint varieties, spearmint can also kill skin disease-causing bacteria and yeasts. It can even lessen the production of sebum, meaning less clogged pores. If used topically, such as through our Spearmint Sparkle cleansing bar, it can effectively cleanse and tighten the skin. Because of the cooling sensation it produces, spearmint can relieve itching from skin irritations as well.

 

Written by Arisha Gwen Chapman
Exclusive for Gamila.com