If you suffer from from oily skin you know that you are dealing with more than a little shine on the nose. Enlarged pores, acne, blackheads and a shiny, oily appearance that returns soon after cleansing and is not limited to the T-zone are the hallmarks of oily skin.

Oily skin is caused by overactive sebaceous glands, resulting in excess sebum (oil). Although we may think that oily skin is a teen problem, the truth is that adults can also be prone to it. There are many triggers that can cause the sebaceous glands to work overtime, including:

•Genetics
•Changes in weather and/or humidity. As temperatures warm up during spring and summer, the skin's oil production may increase.
•Hormones. Fluctuations during different periods of life, such as puberty, menopause and pregnancy, can all affect oil production.
•Stress
•Overcleansing. Initial instincts may tell us to scrub the face to remove excess oil, but in the long run, this only stimulates the sebaceous glands to produce more oil. The more you over cleanse the skin, the more you remove the natural layer of oil, forcing the skin to produce more oil in order to compensate. It's a vicious circle.

Although genetics and hormones are not factors that can be changed simply by switching up topical skin care treatments, there are steps we can take to improve oily skin:

1.Cleanse gently. While it's tempting to cleanse often, this sends the wrong message to oil glands. Limit cleansing to twice daily and opt for a gentle, soap-free gel cleanser. [Link Removed] are good choices. The latter has the added bonus of 2% salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid. BHAs can penetrate through oil as they exfoliate the dead skin sitting on the surface. This makes them particularly effective in unblocking the clogged pores that can lead to pimples, blackheads and other blemishes on the skin.

2.Exfoliate regularly. Those with oily complexions often have thicker skin and pore linings from a build- up of dead skin cells. Regular use of an exfoliant like original [Link Removed] can tighten the skin and reduce the appearance of pores. MaMa Lotion contains 10% mandelic acid which is naturally antibacterial and helps to absorb and control oil production.

3.Moisturize. While adding moisture to oily skin may seem counter-intuitive, this step is all about sending the sebaceous glands the message to slow down production of oil. Go for a light textured, non-comedogenic lotion rather than a heavy cream.

4.Control the shine. Until you get oily skin under control, oil-absorbing pr
oducts can help reduce the shine. [Link Removed] uses breakthrough technology in the form of invisible copolymers to absorb excess oil like a sponge. Skin looks matte and shine-free for up to 8 hours. Cleansing at the end of the day will remove the copolymers along with the excess oil.

The Golden Rule when it comes to dealing with oily skin, and most other skin conditions? Be consistent and give it time. The rewards are just around the corner.

Sharmani Pillay is a Registered Pharmacist who specializes in anti-aging skin care and women's wellness. She owns and operates an online skin care store at [Link Removed].
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