Oily skin is a common problem during puberty, but it can occur at any age. Some oil on the skin is necessary to reduce water loss and protect the skin from bacterial and fungal infections, but excessive oil can clog pores, trigger acne, and prevent proper application of cosmetics. Stopping oily skin is difficult because the condition is typically caused by a combination of factors, including diet, hormone levels, cosmetics use and genetics. In some cases, it is possible to control oily skin at home.
Step 1
Wash your face and body every morning and night using hot water and gentle soap. The water temperature should be hot enough to dissolve and wash away any oil on your face, but not too hot to burn you or cause significant redness. If you are prone to acne in addition to oily skin, you can try a medicated soap designed for acne-prone skin.
Step 2
Use an astringent on your skin after washing to remove any remaining oil and to tighten your pores. Astringents containing acetone are the most effective, but witch hazel or rubbing alcohol also will work, and are considerably less expensive. Use only clean cotton balls or pads to apply the astringent. If your skin becomes oily during the middle of the day, you can use an astringent pad to wipe away the excess oil and reduce shine.
Step 3
Avoid irritating or over-stimulating your skin with frequent exfoliation. It is not necessary to exfoliate more than once or twice each week, and doing so may actually increase oil production.
Step 4
Exercise regularly to improve circulation to your skin and to keep your pores open. Sweating is healthy for the skin and may reduce acne outbreaks. Do not leave sweat on your skin, however. Wash after exercising.
Step 5
Choose water-based cosmetics over oil-based products, as these tend to increase oil production and clog pores. Use baby powder instead of cosmetic powder to increase oil absorption.
Step 6
Speak with your doctor about possible hormonal causes of your oily skin. Some birth control pills, puberty, pregnancy and hormone-replacement therapy can also cause oily skin.
Step 7
Stop oily skin with an over-the-counter or prescription medication, such as those containing retinol. These products may cause significant skin irritation, however, so use them only under a doctor's supervision.
Things You'll Need
- Bar soap
- Medicated soap for oily, acne-prone skin
- Acetone-based astringent
- Witch hazel
- Cotton balls
- Baby powder
- Over-the-counter retinol medication
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