What should you know about facial treatment for oily skin?

Oily skin reflects increased sebum on the surface. It may be influenced by hormones, genetics, heat, stress or products that are too heavy for the person’s skin. Oily skin can occur with acne, including hormonal acne, but oiliness alone does not confirm a diagnosis. Greasy scale, itching or redness around the nose, eyebrows, ears or scalp can point toward seborrheic dermatitis and needs a different plan.

Cleanse gently after waking and before bed, then use a light, non-comedogenic moisturiser and sunscreen. Avoid abrasive scrubs, repeated washing and alcohol-heavy products; removing surface oil too aggressively can leave the barrier irritated and uncomfortable. A dermatologist may recommend pore-clearing or acne medicines, and can review whether isotretinoin treatment is suitable for severe, persistent acne rather than treating oiliness casually. Blotting papers can reduce shine during the day without repeated cleansing.

Book an assessment for painful acne, deep lumps, scarring, sudden severe oiliness, or a greasy rash with itch and scale. Seek prompt advice if a new product causes facial swelling, blistering, breathing difficulty or widespread irritation. A clinician can distinguish ordinary oiliness from acne or dermatitis before treatment is escalated.

Ask what may be driving the oiliness, which cleanser and moisturiser fit your barrier, whether acne or dermatitis is present, and how long to try a treatment before reviewing it.