Key Takeaways:

  • Understand the Causes: Excess oil production is influenced by factors like genetics, hormones, diet, and lifestyle, so identifying your triggers is the first step in managing oily skin.
  • Build a Balanced Skincare Routine: A consistent skincare routine tailored for oily skin, including gentle cleansing, hydration, and oil-control treatments, can effectively reduce shine and improve skin health.
  • Make Lifestyle Adjustments: Adopting healthy habits like staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, and managing stress can support long-term control of oily skin and overall skin wellness.

Oily skin can be frustrating, leaving you battling shine, clogged pores, and even breakouts. While it’s tempting to strip your skin of oils altogether, this approach often backfires, leading to even more oil production. The good news? With the right knowledge and skincare routine, managing oily skin is entirely possible.

At Sacred Rituel, we understand the complexities of skin and believe that caring for it should be a sacred, nurturing process. Our expertise in organic and natural skincare has taught us that addressing oily skin requires balance—working with your skin’s natural tendencies rather than against them.

In this guide, we’ll explore what causes oily skin, how to tweak your skincare routine, and lifestyle changes that can help you maintain a fresh, matte complexion.


What Causes Oily Skin?

Oily skin happens when your sebaceous glands produce too much sebum, the natural oil that keeps your skin moisturized. While sebum is essential for healthy skin, excess amounts can lead to a greasy complexion, clogged pores, and acne.

Some common factors that contribute to oily skin include:

  • Genetics: If oily skin runs in your family, there’s a good chance you’ll have it too.
  • Hormonal Changes: Hormones, especially during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, can cause increased oil production.
  • Climate: Hot and humid weather often exacerbates oily skin.
  • Overwashing or Harsh Products: Stripping your skin of natural oils can trick it into producing even more sebum to compensate.
  • Diet: Foods high in sugar or dairy might contribute to excess oil production for some people.
  • Stress: Elevated stress levels can stimulate hormone production, leading to more oil.

Understanding these causes can help you identify triggers and take targeted steps to manage your skin. At Sacred Rituel, we believe that balance is key. Our thoughtfully crafted skincare products are designed to harmonize with your skin's natural rhythm, helping you achieve a shine-free, healthy complexion. Ready to transform your skincare journey? Explore our collection today and experience the difference.


The Importance Of A Proper Skincare Routine

A consistent skincare routine is crucial for managing oily skin. A well-thought-out routine can help balance oil production without over-drying your skin, which is key to long-term results. Here’s why a proper skincare routine matters:


Balances Oil Production

When you use gentle cleansers and hydrating products, your skin doesn’t feel the need to overcompensate by producing more oil. Harsh cleansers and alcohol-based toners strip away too much sebum, leaving your skin tight and dry, which triggers even more oil production. Instead, balancing oil levels ensures your skin stays hydrated and calm throughout the day.


Prevents Clogged Pores

Excess oil can easily mix with dead skin cells and dirt, leading to clogged pores. Incorporating exfoliation, such as a gentle chemical exfoliant like salicylic acid, clears away debris before it becomes an issue. Non-comedogenic products are also essential because they don’t block pores, giving your skin room to breathe.


Maintains Skin Health

Healthy skin isn’t just about oil control—it’s about nourishing and protecting it too. Hydration is vital, even for oily skin, as lack of moisture can worsen oil production and leave your skin dull. Adding sunscreen is non-negotiable because UV damage can exacerbate oiliness and lead to premature aging.


Consistency Is Key

Randomly trying products or skipping steps doesn’t give your skin the stability it needs to improve. A steady routine lets your skin adapt, reducing overreactions like excess oiliness or breakouts. Over time, consistent care ensures healthier, more manageable skin.


How To Adjust Your Skincare Routine For Oily Skin

Tailoring your skincare routine for oily skin doesn’t mean piling on harsh products to eliminate oil; instead, it’s about creating balance and consistency. Here’s a step-by-step guide to building a routine that works:


Morning Routine

  • Cleanser: Start with a gentle, gel-based or foaming cleanser to remove overnight oil buildup.
  • Sacred Serum: Apply a few drops of Sacred Serum after cleansing. Its lightweight, fast-absorbing formula nourishes your skin with antioxidants and helps balance oil production. Bonus: It offers natural SPF 10 UVA + UVB protection for your morning routine.
  • Sunscreen: Add a mattifying sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) for additional protection, layering it over the serum if extended sun exposure is expected.

Evening Routine

  • Double Cleanse: Begin with micellar water or a cleansing balm to remove makeup and sunscreen, followed by a gel or foaming cleanser to deep clean.
  • Exfoliation (2-3 times a week): Use a chemical exfoliant like salicylic acid to unclog pores and reduce excess oil.
  • Sacred Serum: Reapply the Sacred Serum at night. Its organic, cold-pressed oils like jojoba and sea buckthorn provide deep hydration and repair while balancing oil production as you sleep.

Weekly Additions

  • Clay Masks: Use a clay mask once or twice a week to detoxify your pores.
  • Spot Treatments: If breakouts occur, use a spot treatment with benzoyl peroxide or tea tree oil, being mindful to avoid over-drying your skin.

Tips For Controlling Excess Oil Throughout The Day

Managing oily skin isn’t just about your morning and evening routines—it’s also about keeping shine at bay during the day. Here are some practical tips to help you stay fresh-faced:


Blotting Papers

Blotting papers are a quick and discreet way to absorb excess oil without smudging your makeup. Gently press a sheet onto the oily areas of your face, like your T-zone, rather than wiping, to avoid disturbing your look. They’re portable, easy to use, and a must-have for anyone dealing with midday shine.

 

Use Blotting Papers To Control Oil Throughout The Day

 

Set With Powder

After applying your makeup, dust a translucent or mattifying powder over your T-zone to lock everything in place. These powders help absorb excess oil throughout the day, preventing your foundation from sliding off. Choose a lightweight formula to avoid a cakey appearance and reapply lightly if needed.


Choose Oil-Free Makeup

Oil-free or mattifying makeup products are specially designed to stay put on oily skin. Look for labels like "non-comedogenic" to ensure the product won’t clog your pores or exacerbate acne. Pairing oil-free foundation with a primer can give you a smooth, long-lasting base.


Avoid Touching Your Face

It’s tempting to touch your face, but this habit transfers oils and bacteria from your hands to your skin. This can not only increase oiliness but also lead to clogged pores and breakouts. If you need to adjust your makeup or wipe your face, use clean tools or blotting paper instead.


Midday Touch-Ups

A quick midday touch-up can do wonders for maintaining a matte finish. Use a compact powder or a setting spray with mattifying properties to refresh your look without layering too much product. For a lighter option, blotting papers followed by a light sweep of powder can keep you shine-free.


Stay Hydrated

Drinking water throughout the day helps balance your skin’s oil production by keeping it hydrated internally. When your skin is dehydrated, it can overcompensate by producing more oil, so aim for at least 8 glasses a day. Bonus: Staying hydrated is also great for your overall health and complexion!


Lifestyle Changes To Help Manage Oily Skin

Small, daily adjustments can have a significant impact on reducing excess oil and improving your skin’s health. Here are some lifestyle changes to consider:


Adopt A Balanced Diet

Focus on foods rich in antioxidants, like fruits and vegetables, to support skin health. Limit sugar, processed foods, and dairy, which may trigger excess oil production for some individuals. Incorporate healthy fats, such as those found in avocados and nuts, for balanced hydration.


Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water keeps your body and skin hydrated, which can reduce the likelihood of your sebaceous glands overproducing oil. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water daily, and consider adding fruits like lemon or cucumber for extra benefits. Proper hydration also helps flush out toxins, leading to clearer and more balanced skin over time.


Manage Stress

Stress triggers a surge of hormones like cortisol, which can cause your oil glands to go into overdrive. Finding ways to manage stress—like taking a walk, meditating, or practicing mindfulness—can help regulate these hormone levels. Even just 10 minutes of deep breathing daily can make a noticeable difference in how your skin reacts to stress.


Get Adequate Sleep

Poor sleep disrupts your body’s natural healing processes, including your skin’s ability to regulate oil production. Aim for a consistent sleep schedule with 7–9 hours of rest each night to let your skin repair itself. Invest in a good-quality pillowcase and wash it regularly to avoid transferring oils and bacteria to your face while you sleep.


Regular Exercise

Exercise promotes healthy circulation, delivering nutrients and oxygen to your skin, which can reduce oiliness and improve your complexion. Sweating during workouts helps flush out impurities, but it’s important to cleanse your face afterward to avoid clogged pores. Make exercise a regular habit, even if it’s just a 20-minute walk daily, to keep your skin and body in top shape.


Keep Your Environment Clean

Your surroundings can directly affect your skin’s oiliness. Wash your pillowcases and bedsheets weekly to remove built-up oils and bacteria that might rub off on your face. Also, clean frequently-touched items like your phone screen and makeup brushes, as they can transfer dirt and oil to your skin and worsen oil production.


When To Seek Professional Advice

While most cases of oily skin can be managed with a proper skincare routine and lifestyle changes, there are times when professional help may be needed. Consulting a dermatologist can provide tailored solutions for persistent issues. Here’s when to consider reaching out:


Severe Acne Or Breakouts

If your oily skin leads to severe acne, such as cystic or nodular breakouts, it’s a sign that professional intervention may be needed. These types of acne are often too deep and stubborn for over-the-counter products to manage effectively. A dermatologist can prescribe treatments like retinoids, antibiotics, or even isotretinoin to target the root cause of the breakouts.


Over-The-Counter Products Aren’t Working

When you’ve tried countless cleansers, toners, and moisturizers but still see no improvement, it may indicate that your skin needs something stronger. Dermatologists have access to medical-grade products and treatments that can tackle oil production at a deeper level. They can also help you avoid wasting money on ineffective solutions by recommending only what works for your skin type.


Skin Sensitivity Or Reactions

Oily skin isn’t always resilient—sometimes it can be sensitive or reactive to certain ingredients. If your skin feels itchy, inflamed, or irritated despite your best efforts, it’s time to seek advice. A professional can identify whether you’re dealing with allergies, contact dermatitis, or an imbalance in your skin barrier and offer appropriate remedies.


Unusual Symptoms

If your skin suddenly becomes much oilier or drier than usual, it could signal a hormonal imbalance or another underlying health issue. This is especially true if the changes are accompanied by symptoms like hair loss, unusual acne patterns, or fatigue. A dermatologist can work in conjunction with other medical professionals to diagnose and treat the issue.

 

Seek Professional Advice If Your Oily Skin Is Causing Sever Acne

 

Final Thoughts

Managing oily skin doesn’t have to feel like a never-ending battle. With a little knowledge and consistency, you can take control of your skin’s oil production and maintain a balanced, shine-free complexion. Remember, it’s not about eliminating oil completely—it’s about finding harmony and working with your skin’s natural tendencies.


Read also:


Frequently Asked Questions About Oily Skin

How can I stop my face from being oily?

To manage oily skin, use a gentle cleanser, follow up with a lightweight serum, and always apply a mattifying sunscreen during the day. Avoid overwashing, as this can strip your skin and trigger more oil production. Blotting papers and setting powders can help control shine throughout the day.


How can I fix my oily skin naturally?

You can naturally manage oily skin by maintaining a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, staying hydrated, and using natural remedies like clay masks to absorb excess oil. Incorporate gentle cleansing and lightweight hydration into your routine. Avoid harsh scrubbing, as it can irritate your skin and increase oil production.


Does drinking more water reduce oily skin?

Staying hydrated can help maintain your skin's moisture balance, which may reduce overproduction of oil. However, it won’t completely eliminate oily skin, as other factors like hormones and genetics play a significant role. It’s one piece of a holistic approach to managing oily skin.


Is ice good for oily skin?

Applying ice can temporarily reduce oiliness by tightening pores and calming the skin. However, it doesn’t address the root cause of oily skin or reduce sebum production long-term. Use it sparingly as part of your skincare routine for a refreshing effect.


Can oily skin be stopped?

Oily skin can’t be completely stopped, as it’s largely determined by genetics and hormones. However, it can be effectively managed with the right skincare routine and lifestyle adjustments. Over time, skin may become less oily with age or hormonal changes.


Does cold water stop oily skin?

Cold water can temporarily tighten pores and reduce the appearance of oiliness but won’t stop oil production. Incorporating cold water rinses can be refreshing and soothing for oily skin. For long-term results, focus on skincare products tailored to control oil.


How can I achieve clear skin?

Clear skin starts with a consistent routine that includes cleansing, exfoliating, moisturizing, and applying SPF. Use targeted treatments for specific concerns like acne or oiliness, such as salicylic acid or niacinamide. Maintain a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, hydration, and stress management.


How to clean an oily face?

Clean your face with a gentle, foaming cleanser twice a day to remove oil and impurities. Avoid scrubbing, as it can irritate your skin and trigger more oil production. Follow up with a hydrating toner and lightweight moisturizer to keep your skin balanced.


Why is my nose so oily?

Your nose has a high concentration of sebaceous glands, making it prone to excess oil production. Hormonal activity and environmental factors can also contribute to a shiny nose. Regular exfoliation and oil-control products can help manage this area.


Sources:

  1. Stallings, A. F., & Lupo, M. P. (2009). Practical uses of botanicals in skin care. The Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology, 2(1), 36.
  2. Ligęza, M., Wyglądacz, D., Tobiasz, A., Jaworecka, K., & Reich, A. (2016). Natural cold pressed oils as cosmetic products. Family Medicine & Primary Care Review, 18(4), 443-447.
  3. Vaughn, A. R., Clark, A. K., Sivamani, R. K., & Shi, V. Y. (2018). Natural oils for skin-barrier repair: Ancient compounds now backed by modern science. American journal of clinical dermatology, 19(1), 103-117.