Oily skin is a common concern for many people worldwide, demanding a consistent and specialised skincare routine for oily skin to manage the associated issues effectively. However, an effective oily face care routine can be rendered less effective or even counterproductive when certain skincare mistakes are made. These oily skin routine care mistakes not only undermine the hard work put into your skincare routine but also lead to frustration and disappointment when you see it not delivering the desired results. Regardless of how basic these mistakes might seem, they have the potential to derail your oily face care routine and set your skin's progress back.
These skincare blunders interfere with the efficacy of your oily skin routine and can exacerbate existing issues, ultimately making the problem worse than it was initially. Consequently, it's crucial to steer clear of these mistakes in your skincare routine for oily skin to avoid this frustrating setback.
Oily skin routine care mistakes to avoid
1. Using soap bars to wash face
A surprisingly common mistake in skincare routines for oily skin involves falling for the allure of fancy, marketed soap bars that promise various benefits. Unfortunately, giving in to these marketing gimmicks and using such soap bars can have detrimental effects on your skin. These products tend to strip your skin of essential hydration and the natural oils it needs. As a result, your skin responds by increasing sebum production to compensate for the dehydration, ultimately leading to issues like acne breakouts.
Given that the skin on our face is more delicate and sensitive compared to the skin on the rest of our body, it's imperative to opt for a mild, gentle cleansing face wash to maintain your skin's health, rather than using regular soap bars.
2. Using harsh toners
A common oversight in crafting a skincare routine for oily skin involves neglecting the importance of selecting a gentle, non-stripping toner. It's crucial to ensure that your toner is gentle and alcohol-free, as toners with high alcohol content can do more harm than good. Instead of hydrating your oily skin, alcohol-based toners tend to strip away all moisture, leaving your skin excessively dry and rough.
Continuously using such harsh toners can lead to more frequent breakouts and exacerbate the issues you were trying to address in the first place. To prevent increased sebum production and breakouts, always make it a point to check if your toner is suitable for your oily skin and opt for a gentle, alcohol-free option.
3. Using oil-based creams
In skincare routine for oily skin, some individuals mistakenly use heavy, oil-based creams when it's time to apply a moisturising cream to lock in hydration and the benefits of their freshly cleaned, soft skin. It's important to note that people with oily skin are typically advised to opt for gel-based formulations instead of oil-based ones. Gel-based creams have several advantages: they absorb more easily, don't leave a film on the skin, and won't clog your pores.
In contrast, oil-based and heavier creams can lead to problems like acne breakouts and clogged pores. To ensure your oily skin remains moisturised and free to breathe, it's advisable to avoid oil-based creams and select lighter, gel-based alternatives.
4. Not taking care of clogged pores
Clogged pores are a direct precursor to acne breakouts and the development of stubborn blackheads. If left untreated, blackheads can become deeply embedded and challenging to eliminate entirely. Moreover, clogged pores hinder your skin from fully absorbing the benefits of your skincare routine by blocking these essential ingredients.
To ensure that your skincare products effectively reach all layers of your skin and prevent blackheads and acne breakouts, it is crucial to incorporate deep-cleaning your pores into your routine on a regular basis. This step is essential for maintaining clear and healthy skin.
5. Exfoliating face even if there is active acne present
Using a gentle exfoliator once a week is an effective way to remove accumulated sebum, blackheads, and impurities from your skin. However, it's essential to avoid exfoliating when you have active acne on your face. Exfoliating your skin while acne is present can have adverse effects. The physical particles in the exfoliator, which help remove impurities, can aggravate sensitive acne, making it more severe or even causing it to spread in some cases.
As a result, it's crucial to refrain from using exfoliators when you have active acne on your skin to prevent further irritation and complications.
6. Not moisturising
A persistent myth suggests that people with oily skin require less frequent or less moisturiser compared to other skin types. This misconception is rooted in the belief that those with oily skin already produce more natural oils, making additional hydration unnecessary. However, it's crucial to understand that the oil produced, known as sebum, is fundamentally different from hydration. Hydration is essential for maintaining soft, plump, and healthy skin, whereas sebum doesn't provide the same benefits and can lead to clogged pores.
Consequently, even if you have oily skin, it's important never to skip using an appropriate moisturiser as the final step in your skincare routine to ensure your skin remains well-hydrated and healthy.
7. Skipping sunscreen
Sunscreen is a potent guardian against the harmful UV rays from the sun, yet it's surprising how many people consistently skip applying it. Neglecting sunscreen can significantly undermine your dedicated skincare routine, especially because many of the serums, acne gels, and other products in your routine can make your skin more susceptible to sun damage if you venture outdoors shortly after using them.
To ensure your skincare products are effective and to safeguard your skin from the sun's harsh UV rays, it's vital to apply the recommended amount of sunscreen every time you go out. This step is essential for preserving the benefits of your skincare regimen and shielding your skin from harmful sun radiation.