The whiteheads forming a constellation on your left cheek. The pesky blackheads on your nose. The fresh spot on your forehead….
Skincare specialist Rachel Nazarian of Schweiger Dermatology Group reveals what we could be doing to fuel our oily-face woes.
1. Overcleaning the skin
Okay, so this is the trigger you really have control over. ‘Skin that is being overwashed or overcleansed will sense that the barrier is being stripped. And although you can overdry your skin this way, many patients will notice their skin looking shinier as their oil glands try to balance things out,’ explains Nazarian. She advises sticking to a simple gentle cleanser, and patting skin dry rather than rubbing too vigorously.
2. Non-greasy foods
It’s no secret that fried, unsaturated fats are making you shiny, but dairy products can be just as guilty of clogging up pores. This is because dairy, even if it’s organic, contains natural hormones. Furthermore, much like refined grains (white bread, pretzels and rice), it’s a source of sugar, which can raise your glycaemic index.
3. Your hormones
Simply put, your period has a lot to do with it.’Your monthly hormonal cycle, which fluctuates week to week can trigger increased activity of the oil glands in the skin, even on your scalp,’ Nazarian says. ‘This means you may feel like your skin is getting oilier and shinier depending on the time of your cycle.’ Being more wary in the week leading up to/during your period is key, and hey, tucking blotting papers into your handbag can’t hurt.
4. Your go-to products
I know – say it isn’t so, but it’s time to take a closer look at the ingredients and consistency of what you’re slathering on your face. ‘I see many patients that don’t realise the products they’re putting on their skin can be making their oiliness worse,’ says Nazarian. ‘Avoiding heavier products allows your skin to continue getting feedback from its surroundings and in many ways “breathe” more effectively, avoiding unnecessary excess oil production.’ A good rule of thumb is looking for products that are strictly oil-free and feel light on your skin.
5. Your genes
Ah! The genetic lottery strikes again. ‘The number of glands and their activity level is actually a pretty complex and specific characteristic of each individual. It’s influenced by your genetics, meaning your skin may, at baseline, produce more oil, or you may have more oil glands on your face than someone else,’ Nazarian says. Whomp, whomp. But that’s why the universe invented clay masks!
From: Good Housekeeping UK
