Treatment for Oily Skin

The skin oils secreted by oil glands are essential for a healthy skin. However, if there is an excessive production of oil, then it becomes problematic. Oily skin attracts a lot of dirt and grime which when clogs up the skin pores gives rise to problems like blackheads, pimple and acne. The skin pores of oily skin are large as large amount of oil is accumulated inside them. These large skin pores are easily visible and make the skin appear dark, dull and coarse. Some people have oily skin due to genetic reasons. Besides that, hormonal imbalance particular during adolescence stage, use of wrong skin care products or make up, eating lots of fatty foods can make the skin oily. The main aim of treatment is to reduce the shiny, greasy feel of the skin.

How to Treat Oily Skin

The treatment for oily skin mainly addresses various skin problems that are associated with it. One of the major problem of oily skin is that it is prone to acne outbreaks. The best acne treatment involves use of some topical medicines with contents like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, retinoic acid, etc. A skin cream or lotion with benzoyl peroxide helps to destroy the bacteria that causes acne. It also removes dead skin cells which in turn reduces the chances of clogging up of skin pores. Retinoic acid has the similar kind of effective acne and is widely used for acne control. Salicylic acid unclogs skin pores and release blackheads. Then there are antibiotic ointments which eliminate the acne causing bacteria from the skin. Skin blemishes on oily skin are often treated with antibiotic lotions with erythromycin and clindamycin as components. Lotions containing AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) softens up rough, dull oily skin really well. Dermatologists recommend lotions with vitamin derivatives like tretinoin and isotretinoin to those who have a sensitive oily skin.

Home Remedies for Oily Skin

The oily skin treatment using medicines cannot show any instant results and have to be continued for several months. Prolonged use of such medicines can give some unwanted side effects in the long run. For this reason, many people feel that best treatment for oily skin are those which involves use of natural ingredients. Here are a few oily skin home remedies:

Cold Water: To shrink the enlarged skin pores on oily face, you can use cold water. Splash some cold water on your face three four times in a day. This will tighten up the pores and make them less visible.

Oatmeal: Uncooked oatmeal can control oil on facial skin effectively. Add 1 teaspoon of honey and half teaspoon of lemon juice into the oatmeal and apply the thick paste on the face. Wait for 15 minutes and then wash off with lukewarm water.

Papaya: Raw papaya has an amazing effect on the oily skin. Put a few slices of raw papaya in a blended to obtain a smooth pulp and the apply it on skin. It will not only cleanse up dirt and grime from the skin and but also removes dead skin cells. Thus you can get a soft and supple skin.

Aloe Vera: When aloe vera gel is applied on oily skin, it absorbs excess oil from it. Just dab it on your face and let it dry. You can apply it 2-3 times in a day. For a more refreshing effect, you can keep the gel in the fridge.

Aromatherapy Oils: Cedarwood oil and sandalwood oil are good for oily skin. Mix a few drops of these two oils and massage it thoroughly into the oily skin. This gives you a soothing feeling instantly. With regular use, it can bring about marked improvement in the skin condition.

Clay Mask: The ingredients needed for this mask are: 2 tablespoons of green clay, 1 tablespoon yogurt, 1 tablespoon honey, some lemon juice and few drops of lavender essential oil. Mix all these ingredients to prepare a thick past and apply it all over the face. Let it dry and then wash off with lukewarm water. When you allow it to dry on your face, it will extract out the excess oil. This mask should be used once in a week for the purpose of deep cleansing.

Face Mask:You can prepare a homemade face mask using egg white, lemon juice and honey. Beat the egg white in a small bowl thoroughly and add one teaspoon of lemon juice and half teaspoon of honey into it. Then add some brewer's yeast powder to get a paste. Apply it on the skin and keep it on for 20 minutes. Then rinse off the face mask with plain water.

As dirt and grime settle on oily skin rather easily, you must cleanse your skin 2-3 times in a day with face wash for oily skin. It should be followed by application of alcohol free astringent skin toner. Keep your skin hydrated by moisturizing it with water-based oil free moisturizer. During daytime, your skin should be protected with a gel based sunscreen. Oily skin care should be accompanied by proper diet with fresh fruits and vegetables. Fatty foods, sugary foods, caffeine should be avoided as they make the skin more oily.