Once upon a time, your skin was matte and smooth - but now, it's oily and shiny. Eek!
There are a few reasons for this sudden change - it could be due to hormones, weather, or stress. Regardless of the cause, it's important to adapt your skincare routine in order to heal and nourish your skin.
Keep reading, and we'll tell you what to do if your skin is oily all of a sudden.
Key Takeaways
- You may have an oily skin type.
- You may be experiencing hormonal changes, such as menopause or pregnancy.
- Oily skin can be a sign of stress.
- You are using skincare products that are harsh, drying, or stripping.
- You eat a lot of greasy or fried foods.
- The weather or environment can exacerbate oily skin.
See Related: Everything You Need to Know About Phthalates
Why Is My Skin So Oily?
Before treating your oily skin, you have to figure out why it's oily. That will help you curate the perfect skincare routine.
Oily skin occurs when your skin produces an excess amount of sebum. Sebum is the natural oil that is produced by your sebaceous glands. This natural oil is used to hydrate and nourish the skin.
A little bit of sebum is fine - it keeps your skin barrier healthy, strong, and supple. But excess oil is far from fine!
Excess oil can lead to a slew of other skin issues, such as acne breakouts, clogged pores, and a buildup of dead skin cells, bacteria, and dirt. It's not just unsightly to have shiny skin - it's also bad for your skin health.
So, what are the causes of oily skin? Let's go over them one by one.
#1. It's Just Your Skin Type
You may be familiar with the various skin types. Dry skin, acne-prone skin, mature skin, oily skin, and many more.
If you have an oily skin type, it could just be due to genetics.
Though this may sound like bad news, there is some good news. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), individuals with oily skin are more likely to have fewer fine lines and wrinkles as they age.
If you have naturally oily skin, be sure that your skincare routine is designed for your skin type. That means using an exfoliating scrub at least once or twice a week and using an oil-free moisturizer.
#2. You Are Experiencing Hormonal Fluctuations
As women, we experience many hormonal changes throughout our lives, whether that be during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause. Alongside these hormonal changes can be a change in your skin.
Hormonal fluctuations can lead to increased oil production. Similarly, stress can contribute to a rise in sebum production.
Bonus: Are Sulfates Bad For Your Skin? Breaking Down the Facts
#3. The Physical Manifestation of Stress
Stress isn't just bad for your mood, attitude, or focus. It can also manifest in physical ways, including oily skin. That's why prioritizing holistic healing and mindful wellness is so important.
Stress affects the body in a few different ways. Most notably, it leads to an increase in the hormone cortisol, which then signals to your skin to increase its oil production.
If you know you're about to encounter a stressful event or situation, it might be worthwhile to adjust your skincare routine accordingly.
#4. Your Skincare Products Are Stripping and Harsh
Some people use harsh cleansers or stripping skincare products to try to cancel out oily skin. However, this is a big mistake! These types of products throw off the balance of your skin, perpetuating the cycle of oily skin.
When you dry your skin out with harsh or stripping products, it just signals to your skin to produce even more oil. Remember - this natural oil is what your skin produces in order to stay moisturized and healthy.
If you are using acne treatments like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide (acne usually comes alongside excess oil), be sure to use a good moisturizer that nourishes and protects your skin.
Be sure to avoid harsh scrubs in favor of enzyme cleansers. Additionally, use a gentle cleanser like this Rice Facial Cleanser to preserve the natural balance and moisture of your skin. This mild foaming face wash is able to lift away impurities while nourishing your skin barrier.
#5. Diet Can Affect Your Skin's Natural Barrier
Greasy and fried foods may be delicious to your taste buds, but not so much for your skin. Unhealthy foods can increase sebum production. Sugar can also contribute to oily skin.
If you have oily skin or blemish-prone skin, it's a good idea to stick to a healthy diet that is low in sugars, refined carbs, and fried foods.
#6. The Weather or Environment Can Increase Oily Production
Hot and humid climates can spell disaster for oily skin. This type of weather can lead to an uptick in sweat and sebum production.
To control oily skin in this environment, be sure your skincare routine is designed for oily skin and hot weather (and don't forget to wear sunscreen!)
The Bottom Line
Oily skin can be a challenge, especially if you are experiencing a life change or living in a hot climate. Regardless, if your skin has suddenly become oily, there are a few things you can do to restore its natural balance and maintain its health.
Keep Reading: 4 Ways to Prevent Fine Lines Under Your Eyes
People Also Ask
Why Is My Skin Suddenly Getting Oily?
Your skin can experience sudden changes, including an increase or decrease in oil production, for a number of reasons. Things like stress, climate, or hormones can play a part in the oiliness of your skin.
How Do I Stop My Face From Being So Oily?
Here are five tips and tricks to stop your skin from being oily:
- Choose products that are formulated for oily skin.
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Always start your skincare routine with a gentle cleanser. Our Rice Facial Cleanser is a great place to start, as it's made with natural ingredients that promote a healthy skin barrier.
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Use oil-free or non-comedogenic moisturizers, like this Sweet Black Tea and Ginger Oil-Free Moisturizer.
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Remove your makeup before going to bed.
- Avoid touching your face.
Why Did My Skin Change From Dry to Oily?
If your skin used to be dry but is now oily, it's time to adjust your skincare routine. This change may have occurred due to hormone fluctuations, seasonal changes, or new skincare products.
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