Beyond the basics, you can also consider “applying a retinoid product at night, as it will help regulate oil production and prevent clogged pores,” says Dr. Batra. “Using a gentle exfoliator with a retinoid and/or alpha hydroxy acid two to three times a week is also ideal.” Remember: Keep it simple. Exfoliating more often will not get faster results—it’ll just damage your skin.
Can you treat oily skin naturally?
The best way to treat oily skin is a gentle skin care regimen that you commit to consistently. If you’re shopping for some skin care items and want to look for natural ingredients, some effective ones to keep an eye out for “include clay or oatmeal, which can be used in face masks to absorb oil, as well as aloe vera or honey to calm inflammation and hydrate,” says Dr. Batra.
Does oily skin ever go away?
Wondering if there’s a light at the end of the tunnel? We get it. “While oily skin often decreases with age, especially after menopause, it doesn’t always go away and there is no ‘cure,’” says Dr. Batra. But it’s not all bad news—if you’re willing to splurge, there are in-office treatments that can improve oiliness, like the AviClear laser. “It is a device that is targeted for acne patients, but it is unique in that it reduces sebum production by selectively delivering energy to the sebaceous gland,” says Dr. Batra, who calls it “an effective option for people who want to reduce oiliness.”
How do you prep oily skin before applying makeup?
Using specific products and techniques will allow your makeup to look its best, all day long. And that goes for the skin care prep too. Of course, you’ll want to start with clean skin. If you washed your face hours before doing your makeup, “take some micellar water on a cotton round and gently cleanse your skin to eliminate any excess oil that has built up,” says Dominic. “If you don’t want or need to cleanse, take oil blotting papers and blot any excess oil away. The papers will pick it up and your skin will look less shiny immediately.” Pro tip: Keep your oil blotting papers in your bag so you can touch up throughout the day, if needed.
Follow up with a lightweight serum or gel-based moisturizer, says Dominic, and then as a last skin care prep step, apply a primer. A primer is key “if you get really shiny or have large pores,” says Dominic, who almost always uses one for clients with oily skin. “But you need to choose the correct type,” she advises. “You want something that is mattifying and blurring/smoothing.”
How should you do your makeup for oily skin?
If you have oily skin and wear makeup, you likely know the feeling: You apply a full face of makeup and it looks flawless. By midday, oil is shining through and your foundation is sliding off your face. Instant frustration ensues. So how do you stop your skin from looking oily through your makeup? It all comes down to using the right products for your skin, and you’ll be able to keep oil at bay all day long.
