Using the wrong products on your skin can create more acne, worsening your condition. It’s important to understand why certain products are better to use than others to avoid potential problems, such as severe acne and acne scars.
Cleansers
Benzoyl peroxide effectively removes excess oil from skin as well as dead skin cells and fights acne-causing bacteria. Other cleansers such as salicylic acid, sulfur and alpha hydroxy acids are effective for removing dead skin but not for removing oil. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, benzoyl peroxide is available in washes, pads and gels. The strength of benzoyl peroxide starts as low as 2.5 percent and goes as high as 10 percent. The AAFP and Mayo Clinic caution against using too much benzoyl peroxide, such as in high concentrations or frequency, as it may dry out your skin. The Acne Resource Center advises washing with warm water to open pores, followed up by rinsing with cold water to help tighten pores.
Astringents
Astringents, recommended by the Acne Resource Center, effectively remove oil and help lower the pH balance of your skin. According to iLoveIndia.com, astringents are composed of either witch hazel or alcohol. Astringents also assist with tightening pores to help reduce oil production. Astringents are used after cleansing your skin and are effective at removing cosmetics. Astringents may cause dry skin, but you can follow up with toner to restore hydration back into your skin. When using an astringent, you may notice that your skin appears less shiny throughout the day, according to iLoveIndia.com.
Moisturizers
The Acne Resource Center advises to only moisturize your skin after cleansing, but only on an as needed basis, not daily. The best types of moisturizers for oily skin are oil-free products. Creams should never be used on oily skin, as they are very heavy in composition and may produce more oil on your skin. The same is true for sunscreens as well; only use oil-free sunscreens. The AAFP claims that lotions are also acceptable for those with oily skin, as they are not as heavy as facial creams.
Cosmetics
Noncomedogenic, oil-free and non-acnegenic cosmetics are recommended for those who suffer from oily skin by the Mayo Clinic, ARC and AAFP. These types of cosmetics will not cause pores to clog and help reduce the amount of oil produced by your skin. Keep oily products off your skin to reduce acne, and remove your makeup prior to going to bed. Makeup that sits on your skin for an extended period of time can cause more acne, warns the Mayo Clinic and ARC.
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