If your face becomes shiny or oily just a few hours after washing it, then you truly have oily skin. While this can be frustrating, it’s actually a result of overactive sebaceous glands producing excess sebum. This excess oil can clog pores, cause acne, and lead to constant greasiness.
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Some people claim oily skin is good because it helps prevent wrinkles and keeps the skin youthful. While there’s some truth to this, it has also created a lot of confusion. Over time, many myths have emerged about caring for oily skin—leading some women to believe they don’t need moisturizers or sunscreen. But that’s simply not true. Here, we bust some of the most common oily skin myths.
8 Myths About Oily Skin You Should Stop Believing:
1. Oily Skin Doesn’t Need Moisturizer:
One of the most common misconceptions. It might seem logical—why add moisture to already oily skin? But skipping moisturizer can actually backfire. When your skin lacks hydration, it compensates by producing even more oil. The key is to use a lightweight, oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer—specifically designed for oily skin.
2. Frequent Washing Reduces Oil:
Washing your face multiple times a day might seem like a good way to remove excess oil—but over-washing can strip your skin’s natural oils. This triggers your skin to produce even more oil. Instead, wash your face only twice a day—morning and evening—with a gentle cleanser. If you feel oily during the day, use blotting papers rather than washing again.
3. Oily Skin Always Causes Acne:
While oily skin can contribute to acne, it’s not the sole cause. Studies, such as one in the Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology, show acne results from a combination of factors: hormones, bacteria, clogged pores, and oil. Oily skin doesn’t automatically mean breakouts. To prevent acne, maintain a consistent routine: cleanse twice daily, moisturize, exfoliate once or twice a week, and don’t skip sunscreen.
4. Sunscreen Makes Oily Skin Worse:
Many people with oily skin avoid sunscreen, thinking it will make their skin greasier or cause breakouts. This is a major mistake. Sun damage not only raises the risk of skin cancer but can also cause dark spots, premature aging, and irritation. Fortunately, there are many oil-free sunscreens designed for oily skin. Look for labels like “matte finish” or “gel texture” for the best results.
5. Toner Controls Oil When Used Frequently:
Not all toners are created equal. Many alcohol-based toners can dry out the skin, prompting it to produce even more oil. Instead, choose gentle toners with ingredients like niacinamide or salicylic acid—these help balance oil production and keep pores clean without irritating your skin.
6. Oily Skin Is Always Unhealthy:
Oily skin often has a bad reputation, but it’s not necessarily a sign of poor skin health. Your skin’s natural oils actually help protect it from environmental damage and retain moisture. Oil production is influenced by genetics, hormones, diet, and stress. Oily skin simply requires a different care approach—not less care.
7. People with Oily Skin Should Avoid Makeup:
Oily skin and makeup can work together—you just need the right products. Choose oil-free, non-comedogenic formulas that won’t clog pores. Use a mattifying primer, oil-absorbing powder, and setting spray to keep makeup in place and prevent shine throughout the day.
8. Oily Skin Ages More Slowly Than Dry Skin:
This myth is partly true. Oily skin tends to show fine lines later because it retains natural moisture. However, that doesn’t mean it’s immune to aging. Sun exposure, pollution, and other factors still cause damage over time. Even with oily skin, wearing sunscreen daily and following a good skincare routine is essential for youthful, healthy skin.
Tips for Caring for Oily Skin:
Cleanse twice daily with a sulfate-free, gentle cleanser to remove excess oil and impurities without over-drying.
Moisturize daily with a lightweight, oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer to avoid overproduction of oil.
Always choose non-comedogenic, oil-free skincare and makeup products.
Use blotting papers during the day to absorb excess oil rather than over-washing.
Exfoliate twice weekly with a gentle exfoliant like salicylic acid (BHA), which is especially effective for oily, acne-prone skin.
Use gel or matte-finish sunscreen to protect your skin without adding shine.
Stay hydrated and reduce your intake of sugary and greasy foods for better oil control from within.
