Building a Skincare Routine for Oily Skin

Oily skin can be a blessing and a curse. On one hand, it tends to age more slowly and stays naturally hydrated. On the other, dealing with excess shine, enlarged pores, and occasional breakouts can be a real challenge. The key to managing oily skin is to establish a consistent and effective skincare routine. Luckily, at Renude we can walk you through the steps to build a routine that keeps your skin balanced and healthy. 

Step 1. Understand your skin type 

Before diving into any skincare routine, it's crucial to understand your skin type. Oily skin is characterised by an overproduction of sebum, resulting in a shiny complexion. You may also experience enlarged pores and occasional acne. Knowing your skin type allows you to choose products and treatments that address your specific concerns effectively.

Reasons why you may have oily skin

• Genetics: Your genetics have a part in determining your skin type. If one or both of your parents have oily skin there is a good chance that you will have oily skin too. 
• Environment: Living in a hot, humid environment causes you to perspire more so your body works overtime to keep you cool. When your body is trying to keep you cool, sweat mixes with sebum and is excreted through the pores. Living in a very dry climate can make your sebaceous glands work overtime too to compensate for lost moisture in the skin, creating an oily skin type. 
• Hormones: Puberty, pregnancy, menopause, birth control, certain medications and stress all have an effect on our hormones. During these changes, your hormones can surge and cause your skin to become oily. The main 3 hormones behind this surge are Estrogen, Testosterone and Cortisol. 
• Cosmetics: Cosmetics and skincare products that are comedogenic or “pore-clogging” can cause your skin to produce more oil. The use of comedogenic ingredients can trigger a specific type of acne called acne cosmetica. When purchasing makeup and skincare products, look for the label to say non-comedogenic to ensure the formula has been tested as non-pore clogging. Oil-free moisturisers are a great option for oily skin, as they hydrate without feeling heavy.
• Over-Cleansing and Over-Exfoliating: Over-cleansing and over-exfoliating will strip the skin of the sebum that's necessary for it to function correctly. It may be tempting to purchase an aggressive cleanser or exfoliant to rid your skin of oil, but too much of this approach can cause your skin to over-produce oil to compensate for the oil which has been removed. 

Step 2. Consult with an Aesthetician

Before you start purchasing products, consider consulting with an aesthetician. These skincare experts can provide a professional assessment of your skin's condition, identify any underlying issues, and recommend personalised solutions. Their expertise can be invaluable in creating a tailored routine that addresses your unique concerns.

Take our skin quiz to get started 

Step 3. Cleanse Gently, but Thoroughly

Cleansing is the foundation of any skincare routine, especially for oily skin. It can often be tempting to use a stronger cleanser to remove the oiliness from your skin, but this actually sends signals to the skin to produce even more to compensate! Use a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser that removes excess oil and impurities. Consider using a salicylic acid or glycolic acid-based cleanser to help keep pores clear and reduce breakouts.

Renude recommends: Medik8, Cream Cleanse

Step 4. Exfoliate Regularly

Exfoliation is key for oily skin. It helps remove dead skin cells that can clog pores and contribute to breakouts. Opt for a chemical exfoliator with ingredients like salicylic acid or glycolic acid. Start with exfoliating once or twice a week and gradually increase frequency if your skin tolerates it.

Renude recommends: Paula’s Choice, Skin Perfecting 2% Liquid Exfoliant 

Step 5. Use a Lightweight, Oil-Free Moisturiser

Contrary to popular belief, even oily skin needs moisture. Choose a lightweight, oil-free, or gel-based moisturiser to keep your skin hydrated without making it greasy. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which can provide hydration without clogging pores.

Renude recommends: Dear Klairs, Fundamental Water Gel Cream

Step 6. Sunscreen Is Non-Negotiable

Sunscreen is a must for everyone, regardless of skin type. Oily skin can be more susceptible to sun damage, so opt for a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. Look for oil-free or mattifying sunscreen formulas to help control shine.

Renude recommends: Heliocare, Gel Oil-Free SPF 50

Step 7. Targeted Treatments

Incorporate targeted treatments into your routine to address specific concerns. For acne-prone skin, products containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can be effective. For oil control, consider using a mattifying primer before applying makeup.

Renude recommends: By Wishtrend, Sulfur 3% Clean Gel 

Step 8. Avoid Over-Cleansing

While it's essential to keep your skin clean, avoid over-cleansing. Washing your face excessively can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to increased oil production to compensate. Stick to cleansing in the morning and evening, and use a gentle touch.

Step 9. Be Consistent

Consistency is the key to success with any skincare routine. Stick to your chosen products and treatments, and be patient. It can take time to see significant improvements in oily skin, so don't be discouraged if you don't see immediate results.

Step 10. Consult with Your Aesthetician Again

As your skin evolves and your needs change, consult with your aesthetician periodically to adjust your skincare routine accordingly. They can recommend new products or treatments based on your progress and goals.

Managing oily skin requires dedication, patience, and the guidance of a skincare professional. Building an effective routine for oily skin is a step in the right direction towards achieving a balanced and healthy complexion. Book a consultation with an aesthetician to get personalised recommendations and guidance on the best products and treatments for your specific skin needs. With the right routine and expert advice, you can embrace your oily skin and enjoy a glowing, confident complexion. Take our skin quiz to get started.