Oily skin – the number one “enemy” of women – is often accompanied by an obsession called acne. Worrying about this type of acne not only affects your appearance but also affects your psychology and confidence. Understanding that this article will provide you with in-depth instructions on acne treatment for oily skin. With updated scientific information and practical advice from dermatologists, this article promises to be a useful guide to help you “say goodbye” to acne and regain radiant skin.
Contents
1. The main cause of acne
The main cause of acne is that hair follicles can become clogged with dead skin cells and oil, leading to the development of acne, in addition to pimples, blackheads, or whiteheads. Although acne can affect people of all ages, teenagers are most commonly affected.
Pimples and bumps will heal gradually, but as soon as one pimple disappears, others may appear. Acne can leave scars on the skin and cause discomfort, depending on its severity. The sooner you start treatment, the less likely you are to experience such problems.
2. Acne treatment for oily skin at home (Routine)
2.1. Clean your skin at least once every 2 days
One of the important things in good acne treatment for oily skin is to focus on cleaning the skin. It is essential to wash your face in the morning and evening. After an activity or on a hot day, wash one more time. The goal is to remove sebum, an oily substance produced by glands beneath the skin. Dirt, dead skin cells, dryness, and sweat must all be removed with a facial cleanser. You also need an oil-free cleanser for oily, acne-prone skin, follow the steps on how to use a cleanser for oily skin so you can learn useful facial cleansing movements and techniques to help deep clean pores and prevent acne from recurring.
Dermatologists have recommended various cleansers for different skin types:
- Dr. Whitney Bowe suggests using Skinfix’s foaming cleanser followed by Bioderma’s micellar water for acne-prone skin.
- Dr. Corey L. Hartman prefers SkinCeuticals LHA Cleanser Gel and CeraVe Foaming Cream Cleanser for treating acne and preventing aging and for sensitive skin, respectively.
- Dr. Jessica Wu recommends Paula’s Choice Pore Normalizing Acne Cleanser for normal to oily skin types and Avène Cleansing Foam for those with dry, sensitive, and acne-prone skin.
2.2. Use rose water to tighten pores
Rose water is a liquid that penetrates quickly into the skin and brings many benefits. First, it helps remove any residue like makeup, oil, and other impurities that may be left behind after washing your face. Second, it provides moisture to the skin. Third, it aids in shrinking large pores, making them appear smaller. Additionally, it prepares the skin to absorb better and faster the products that follow in your skincare routine.
When using rose water for acne treatment for oily skin, you need to pay attention that toners containing alcohol tend to dry out the skin. Therefore, you should use an alcohol-free version that contains antibacterial ingredients such as aloe vera, witch hazel, willow bark, and Nasturtium officinale extract. These active ingredients will not only soothe your skin but also eliminate the germs that cause acne.
Recommended by dermatologists
One of the products most recommended by dermatologists is rose water from the La Roche-Posay brand. This product contains salicylic acid, which along with glycolic acid effectively clears pores and smoothes rough skin.
2.3. Add a special acne treatment serum
Serum is a substance containing concentrated active ingredients and has a thin viscosity. When treating acne for oily skin some powerful active ingredients to look for in a serum include salicylic acid, niacinamide, and peptides. When combined with serum ingredients, these chemicals can penetrate deeper layers of the skin to help reduce acne-causing germs. Below we will explain in detail the above active ingredients:
- Salicylic acid is especially effective for people with oily or combination skin. It is oil-soluble and stimulates the skin’s natural exfoliation process, reduces acne, keeps pores clear, and dissolves dead skin cells from pores to prevent acne and acne.
- Niacinamide is another effective ingredient for acne treatment for oily skin. It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help cure acne, regulate sebum production, reduce the appearance of acne, and soothe redness. Research has shown that niacinamide is a skin-friendly ingredient that helps maintain barrier function and reduce hyperpigmentation.
- Peptides have exceptional antibacterial properties against propionibacteria, the bacteria that cause acne. Peptides can assist in repairing skin damage, reducing inflammation, regulating sebum oil production, and clearing acne. They are also hydrating and can help maintain your skin’s moisture balance.
Recommended by dermatologists
If you’re looking to add an acne-treating serum or moisturizer to your routine, you might want to start with The Ordinary’s Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%. This is a great choice that several experts recommend. According to Green, “Niacinamide has a calming and brightening effect on the skin, helping to improve overall tone and texture while reducing breakouts and controlling excess sebum and oil production.” This serum’s anti-inflammatory and healing qualities are particularly helpful for people with oily skin or breakouts.
For treating blackheads and whiteheads, Bowe recommends SkinCeuticals Silymarin CF, an oil-free vitamin-C serum that can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Alternatively, you can try the iS Clinical Healing Serum, which contains various ingredients to reduce inflammation and imperfections, such as zinc sulfate and kojic acid.
2.4. Use moisturizer to control excess oil
People with oily or combination skin often skip moisturizing because they believe it will make their skin oilier. However, dermatologists agree that regardless of skin type, skipping moisturizer can lead to dehydration and lack of moisture, leading to the overproduction of sebum, clogging pores, and causing acne.
Therefore, it is important to note that when choosing a moisturizer to treat acne for oily skin, you must use one that can moisturize the skin, does not contain oil, does not cause acne, and contains ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and Saccharide Isomerate. These ingredients increase moisture without leaving your skin feeling greasy or shiny throughout the day.
Recommended by dermatologists
Dermatologists recommend CeraVe products, including Cetaphil Gentle Clear Mattifying Anti-Acne Moisturizer. This moisturizer contains skin-soothing ceramides, niacinamide, lightweight hyaluronic acid, and sunscreen, all of which are essential for maintaining healthy skin.
2.5. Use chemical exfoliants
Treating acne with exfoliation is an effective method. This is the removal of dead skin cells from the outer layer of the skin. This can help your skin look smoother and healthier. It can also help treat two typical oily skin problems: clogged and enlarged pores.
There are several over-the-counter exfoliating solutions to choose from. Including granular exfoliants and chemical exfoliants. However, granular exfoliants are not recommended for acne-prone skin because they make acne worse. Instead, you should use chemical exfoliants containing active ingredients such as AHA, BHA, or PHA, these substances will gently penetrate the skin to help deeply clean pores without having a strong impact on the skin or acne.
Recommended by dermatologists
Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant is a chemical exfoliant that is very good for acne-prone skin. This product contains BHA, a mild exfoliant that effectively removes skin buildup, resulting in visibly improved skin. Doctor Arora and Chang also recommend this product. Dr. Arora explains that BHA is good for removing dead skin cells, while Dr. Chang suggests that this exfoliant is for acne-prone skin due to its ability to penetrate deep into the pores without irritating.
2.6. Combine with sunscreen to avoid leaving scars after acne
It is a misunderstood truth that using sunscreen can cause acne. When treating acne with strong active ingredients, you must apply sunscreen to protect your skin. It is important to choose a sunscreen that is specifically for oily skin, avoids acne, and has good oil control properties, such as sunscreen for oily skin.
Recommended by dermatologists
CeraVe sunscreen is a great drugstore option for those looking for a dermatologist-recommended sunscreen. This product contains minerals and protects the skin with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and niacinamide while providing broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection. According to dermatologist Marisa Garshick, MD of MDCS Dermatology in New York City, it’s safe for all skin types and non-greasy. Although it may seem heavy when applied to the face, it blends seamlessly and gently lifts skin tone for a no-makeup look.
3. Medical treatment for acne-prone skin
3.1. Topical medications to treat acne
a. Benzoyl peroxide
The first active ingredient in acne treatment for oily skin is Benzoyl peroxide, which acts as an antiseptic to reduce the number of microorganisms on the skin’s surface. It also reduces the number of whiteheads and blackheads and has anti-inflammatory properties. Benzoyl peroxide is often sold as a cream or gel. It is used once or twice a day. You should use it on all acne-affected facial areas after washing. But note, that you should use caution because too much can cause skin irritation.
b. Topical retinoids
One of the best acne treatments for oily skin active ingredients that we recommend is Retinoids, the active ingredient is a topical application that works by removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin (exfoliation), preventing them from accumulating in hair follicles. Tretinoin and adapalene are topical retinoids that treat acne. They come in gel or cream form and are usually applied once a day before bed. Apply to any acne-prone regions of the face 20 minutes after you’ve washed your face.
c. Azelaic acid
If you are worried about the side effects of the above two active ingredients, we have an active ingredient good acne treatment for oily skin home remedies that is safer and more benign for the skin, which is azelaic acid. Azelaic acid works by removing dead skin cells and eliminating microorganisms. It comes in cream or gel form and is usually applied twice daily (or once daily if your skin is very sensitive). Because the medicine does not make your skin sensitive to sunlight, you do not need to avoid the sun. Usually, a month of azelaic acid treatment is needed before your acne improves.
3.2. Oral medications to treat severe acne
Besides topical medications, you can also combine oral medications, this is also one of the acne treatments for oily skin recommended by doctors. One of them is Isotretinoin, which is a capsule therapy for severe acne. It has many beneficial effects:
- Aids in normalizing sebum
- Aids in preventing follicle blockage.
- Reduces the number of microorganisms on the skin.
- Minimizes the appearance of redness and swelling in and around the spots
However, the medicine can have many side effects. It is only advised for severe acne that has not responded to earlier treatments. Isotretinoin can only be recommended by a specialist because of the potential for negative effects.
3.3. Professional Treatments
a. Chemical peels
Chemical peeling is one of the good acne treatments for oily skin that involves applying different chemicals to the skin in higher concentrations to stimulate exfoliation through superficial, medium, or deep peels. Most peels are superficial peels, which are applied to the face as a mask to refresh the skin before being wiped off.
b. Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a skin treatment procedure that uses a diamond-tipped suction device or vacuum to remove the outermost layer of the skin, called the stratum corneum, without the use of chemicals. This procedure helps remove dead skin cells while enhancing the regeneration of fresh skin cells. This is a good treatment to improve dull and pigmented skin, but needs to be repeated every 3-4 weeks as it is a process of cell turnover,
4. Advice from a dermatologist on acne treatment for oily skin
4.1. Choose oil-free skin care products
On skincare and makeup packages, look for the “oil-free” and “non-comedogenic” designations, which are essential skin care tips for oily skin. Non-comedogenic implies that it is free of substances that clog pores or promote the buildup of oil and dead skin cells, both of which can lead to acne.
4.2. Avoid touching your face
This is one of the simple acne treatments for oily skin but is often forgotten by us. When you touch your face, debris, germs, and oils from your hands can transfer to your skin and cause acne. When you need to touch your face, make sure to wash your hands properly with soap.
4.3. Lifestyle and Dietary Considerations
As the adage says “You are what you eat”, so you should integrate healthy foods into your diet. Stay hydrated to keep your skin moisturized and consider including a variety of fruits and vegetables in your diet.
4.4. Choose the right pillowcase material for acne-prone skin
According to Dr. Lim, “The material of your pillowcase is very important as it can have an impact on your skin with several mechanisms.” First of all, he claims that “dirt and bacterial build-up can lead to acne by clogging pores.” Second, “some types of fabrics can cause skin irritation, which can result in skin sensitivity, redness, and inflammation.”
Not only may the fabric of your pillowcase be causing breakouts, but the way it is cleaned may also be a factor. “The detergent that pillowcases are washed in is another common source of allergens,” Dr. Lim stated.
Dr. Lim emphasizes the importance of choosing pillowcases that are absorbent. Natural fibers, which absorb more moisture than synthetics, are preferred.
4.5. Be persistent with your skincare routine
It’s important to be patient when starting a new acne treatment as it can take six to twelve weeks to see visible improvements. Furthermore, some acne medications may initially worsen your acne before it begins to heal.
Treating acne for oily skin is a long journey that requires perseverance and effort. However, with the right knowledge and methods, you can completely control acne and have healthy, smooth skin. Thank you for taking the time to read Healthglowy‘s article. Hopefully, the above information will be useful for your journey of treating acne and regaining your desired skin
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