Oily Skin & Large Pores

Managing excess sebum and refining pores

How to Identify Oily Skin

•→ Shiny appearance, especially in T-zone, within hours of cleansing
•→ Enlarged, visible pores particularly on nose, forehead, and chin
•→ Prone to blackheads, breakouts, and congestion
•→ Makeup tends to slide off or break down throughout the day
•→ Thicker skin texture with a slightly coarse feel
•→ Blotting papers absorb significant oil

Oily skin occurs when sebaceous glands produce excess sebumthe waxy, lipid-based substance that naturally protects and hydrates skin. While often frustrating, oily skin has a significant advantage: it tends to age more slowly, with fewer fine lines and wrinkles compared to drier skin types.

What Causes Oily Skin?

Genetics

Sebaceous gland size and activity are largely inherited. If your parents have oily skin, you likely will too.

Hormones

Androgens stimulate sebum production. Fluctuations during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause affect oiliness.

Climate & Environment

Hot, humid weather increases sebum production. Pollution can also trigger excess oil as a protective response.

Incorrect Skincare

Over-cleansing or using harsh products strips natural oils, triggering rebound oil production.

Best Ingredients for Oily Skin

SEBUM CONTROL

Niacinamide

Regulates sebum production, minimises pore appearance, strengthens skin barrier

PORE CLEARING

Salicylic Acid

Oil-soluble BHA penetrates pores to dissolve sebum and dead cells

MATTIFYING

Clay & Kaolin

Absorbs excess oil without over-drying; excellent in masks

Hyaluronic Acid

Lightweight hydration without adding oil; keeps skin balanced

CELL TURNOVER

Retinoids

Normalises skin cell turnover, reduces congestion, refines texture

BALANCING

Zinc

Anti-inflammatory, regulates oil production, helps prevent breakouts

Ingredients to Use Sparingly
  • Heavy oils (coconut, mineral oil) - can clog pores
  • Thick, occlusive creams - may trap sebum
  • Alcohol-based toners - strip skin, causing rebound oiliness
  • Comedogenic ingredients - check labels for "non-comedogenic"

Recommended Routine

Morning

  1. Gel or foam cleanser
  2. Niacinamide serum
  3. Oil-free, lightweight moisturiser
  4. Mattifying SPF 30+

Evening

  1. Oil cleanser (to remove SPF)
  2. Gel or foam cleanser
  3. Salicylic acid or retinoid (alternate nights)
  4. Lightweight gel moisturiser

Pro Tips for Oily Skin

Don't skip moisturiserdehydrated skin produces more oil
Use blotting papers midday instead of re-cleansing
Clay masks 1-2x weekly help control excess sebum
Look for "oil-free" and "non-comedogenic" labels

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