One of the most common skin types is the one that is oily, characterized by a shiny look, as well as outbreaks of acne. If you have oily or breakout-prone skin, don’t worry! You can take control of your skin and care for it just the way it needs to look and feel amazing.
1. Don’t Pick!
This is very important. When you have acne-prone skin, it can be very tempting to pick at blemishes or even attempt to “pop” whiteheads and blackheads. Resist this urge. Popping your blemishes can lead to scars and even additional breakouts if the pus touches another part of your skin and infects it. Leave your skin alone, and avoid touching it as much as possible – the oil from your fingers can cause breakouts to get worse.
You don’t need very many products to care for your skin, but the products you get should be the right ones. Shop for a cleanser that lathers. Products like Neutrogena are already aimed at oily and breakout-prone skin, so this is a decent brand to look through. Their grapefruit cleanser is effective, as well as pleasant-smelling. Products infused with citric acid (from citrus fruit) are excellent for cleaning oily skin and preventing breakouts.
Another product that you can benefit from is a toner. Witch hazel is a clear toner that is fairly gentle, so if you have sensitive skin, this is a great option. Otherwise, look for a toner or astringent that is blue in color and contains 2% salicylic acid. This is an ingredient that is often added to products intended for use on acne-prone skin. Toner is best used after you clean your face morning and night.
The next product to look out for is a facial scrub. You can purchase one (again, Neutrogena is a decent brand for oily skin) or you can even make one. To make your own scrub, combine one cup of coconut oil with 1/2 cup salt, and a few drops of lemon essential oil. When you have a scrub, use it only twice per week. Any more than this will cause your skin to break out in acne even worse.
Once per week, you should use a facial mask after you have either cleaned your skin or on exfoliation days, used your scrub. When shopping, look for a mask that is either clay or charcoal. Masks of this sort are applied wet, and dry after roughly 15 minutes. As they dry, they draw toxins up and out of your skin. When applying, be sure to skip your eyelids, lips, and nostrils.
Last, but not least, you will need to use a moisturizer as well as sunscreen. You can purchase these separately or find a 2-in-1 product. Look for a moisturizer that is oil-free. You don’t need much per day, but be sure to use this after you cleanse your skin or use your facial mask. Sunscreen is also imperative in order to protect yourself from the damaging effects of the sun.