What is oily skin? It is an over production of oil from the sebaceous glands. Oily skin is the flip side of dry skin. It is definitely one of the more troublesome skin types. Oily skin a mile away because of the greasy shine it leaves on the face especially around the nose and forehead. The only benefit for those that have oily skin is that the skin ages at a slower rate. But usually it can be the source of problem skin like blemishes, acne, pimples and blackheads. Oily skin can be caused by the onset of puberty, heredity, pregnancy (because of hormonal imbalance), hot weather (humidity) and diet.

One important thing to do when the skin is oily is to keep it clean. Depending on how oily your skin is this can be about three times a day. Do not over wash to prevent excessive oil production in the skin. Use

plenty of hot water to help dissolve oils in the skin. Avoid heavy or thick cleansing creams and harsh soaps. Apply an antibacterial cleanser but without alcohol. Then apply an oil free moisturizing lotion to maintain flexibility and softness in the skin. The best times of day to apply moisturizer is at night then a bit in the morning especially around the eyes, mouth and throat.

To reduce extra facial shine and oiliness during the day apply a little witch hazel it will help absorb excess oil. Clay or mud mask treatments absorb excess oils.

For problems with patchy makeup use a little cucumber juice on problem areas of the face nose, chin and forehead.

Exfoliants and astringents with acetone are another way to help absorb extra oil on skin.

Diet

Diet has a great deal to do with how the skin looks. Be sure and get enough B2 vitamins. If you don’t take a multivitamin this may be a good time to start.

Stay away from animal fats in food. Use canola and olive oil in salads. Avoid or limit consumption of soda pop, alcohol, chocolate, sugar, fried and spicy foods.