How to Treat an Oily Face

Keep oil at bay with a few simple skin care techniques.

Oily skin occurs due to an overproduction of the sebaceous glands. Oily skin leads to large pores and a propensity for acne breakouts. However, there are advantages to having oily skin. Of the three main skin types, oily, dry and normal, oily skin is less prone to wrinkling and other signs of aging. Oily skin needs to be cared for properly to keep excess oil and pimples at bay. By following a few simple skin care routines on a regular basis, a person can have healthy looking skin.

Things You'll Need

• Pot
• Oily skin cleanser
• Cotton balls
• Astringent

Instructions

1. Boil 1 qt. water in a pot for a steam facial. Remove from heat. Place the face 5 inches over the water. Allow the steam to wash over the face for 10 minutes. Perform a steam facial two or three times a week. The steam helps clean out pores and reduce the buildup of sebum that can enlarge pores and cause pimples.

2. Wash the face with an oily skin cleanser. Pour a quarter size of the liquid cleanser on the fingertips or in the palm of one of the hands. Apply it to the entire face, massaging it in with a circular motion for one minute. Rinse the cleanser off with warm water.

3. Use an astringent for oily skin. Saturate a cotton ball with astringent and rub it over the face. Let the astringent dry. Do not wash it off. Over-the-counter astringents restore the pH balance to the skin while also removing excess oil.

Tips & Warnings

• Choose a mild cleansing product that does not contain harsh determinants which can be too drying even for oily skin. Products that absorb oil are best for cleaning oily skin. Look for products with ingredients such as clay, oatmeal or fuller's earth. These substances absorb the excess oil without drying out the skin.

• Read the directions on any over-the-counter product before using it.

• Because oily skin naturally lubricants itself, there is no need to use a moisturizer.

• Use blotting papers to absorb the excess oil on the face.

• Make your own astringent with vinegar or lemon juice. Pour a small amount of vinegar or lemon juice on a cotton ball and wipe it over the face.

References

• Become Gorgeous: Home Remedies for Oily Skin
• Mama Herb: Oily Face Home Remedies
• Mother Nature: Oily Skin