A:

Breakouts, greasy skin, congestion - oily skin can be a challenge to manage! Here at Q+A we understand this difficulty, however we may have some tips and tricks into how you could treat this, and what may be causing it in the first place…

Why is my skin oily?

Oily skin occurs when excess sebum is produced by the sebaceous glands. Sebum is a substance that provides a protective coating for your skin to help it retain moisture and is necessary to keep the skin hydrated, protected, and healthy. Too much sebum results in oily skin. Genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors can influence the 'oiliness' of your skin.

How can I tell if my skin is oily?

A shiny complexion, enlarged pores, blackheads, and breakouts across the face are key indicators. If shine and congestion is only in your T-Zone, you most likely have combination skin. Still not sure? Why not take our Skin Type Quiz for instant results!

Why is oily skin more prone to breakouts, and does oily skin always breakout?

Breakouts are more likely because the sebum mixes with dead skin cells and gets stuck in your pores. These congested pores become inflamed and blemishes form.

Even though it is more common for those with oily skin to experience acne and blemishes, dry, normal and combination skin types can still suffer. On the flip side, you can still have oily skin without having blemishes - your skin may just appear shiny.

Do I still need to moisturise if my skin is oily?

Oily skin needs to use a great moisturiser just as much as any other skin type, and excess oil can actually be down to the skin trying to combat dehydration. Adding a cream on top of already shiny or greasy skin can be intimidating, but by opting for a suitable, oil-free formula, your skin will get the hydration it needs without the congestion.

What are the best ingredients if my skin is oily?

While you can't necessarily get rid of oily skin, you can take steps to rebalance oil levels and control breakouts for a calmer and clearer complexion!

Niacinamide: this multi-talented ingredient helps to rebalance excess oil, reduces the appearance of pores, and can even target post-acne scars. It also has barrier restoring and hydrating benefits. Try the Q+A Niacinamide Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser which promotes a healthy complexion and gently exfoliates congested skin!

Hyaluronic Acid: it's a common misconception that oily and blemish prone skin doesn't need moisture. Hyaluronic Acid draws moisture into the upper layers of the skin and retains it without clogging pores, leading to a balanced, hydrated complexion. The Q+A Hyaluronic Acid Facial Serum is a great addition to any regime.

Salicylic Acid: BHA's like Salicylic Acid help to purify help to purify the skin by penetrating deep into the pores to decongest and target blemishes. With regular use, your skin will appear brighter and clarified. Keep your eyes peeled for more Salicylic Acid goodness coming to Q+A... 

Zinc PCA: this antioxidant helps to minimise the appearance of pores and regulate oil production. Complete your skincare routine with the Q+A Zinc PCA Daily Moisturiser or Q+A Zinc PCA Facial Serum for antioxidant hit!

What ingredients should I avoid?

Oil-based products: some oils, including Coconut and Mineral Oils, are highly comedogenic and can clog pores. Opting for oil-free products, such as the Q+A Amino Acid Oil-Free Moisturiser, helps avoid excess congestion and oil build-up.

Occlusive formulas: occlusive ingredients form a seal over the surface of your skin, preventing water loss and irritants entering. Whilst this is great for dry skin, rich and heavy occlusive products can trap oil into the skin, increasing congestion. Using a lightweight, water-based serum or face cream will help to protect the skin barrier whilst giving it room the breathe!

Oily skin can seem hard to manage, but we hope this guide will have you well on your way to a rebalanced complexion. Here at Q+A we make sure to tender to all skin types, so don't forget to use our Skin Type Checklist, or take the Skin Type Quiz to find your perfect match! Even better, shop our Q+A Blemish Buster Bundle, which caters to every step in your skincare regime, helping to cleanse, balance and hydrate!

Until next time,

Hannah @ Team Q+A