4 Types of Products You Should Never Go Near if You Have Oily Skin
If you’ve got an oily complexion, you know first-hand that certain products can totally freak out your face (we’re talking major greasiness and even worse, breakouts). But which beauty goodies are the biggest offenders? Here to explain what you should steer clear of is Montclair, New Jersey, dermatologist Jeanine B. Downie, M.D.
1. Face Oils
This category has never been more popular, but Downie says facial oils that sit on your complexion all day or night are no good if you've already got greasy skin. And that includes formulas with tea tree oil, which are often formulated for acne. Womp, womp. Also, beware of foundations containing oils, too—look for oil-free versions to prevent clogged pores.
What’s safe: Cleansing facial oil, which is applied only to remove makeup and dirt (and then immediately washed off), can help cut through grease while balancing skin to make it soft and less shiny, says Downie.
Product pick: DHC Deep Cleansing Oil ($24, dhccare.com)
2. Too Many Acne-Fighters
When all of your skin products contain oil-sopping and acne-zapping ingredients, you risk overdoing it. “Stripping the skin can make it rebound and produce too much oil as a result, making oil production and breakouts worse,” says Downie. Ugh. Keep in mind that some makeup—like concealers—can contain active acne-fighting ingredients, too. (Here are the best foundations for oily skin.)
What’s safe: Stick to one or two treatment products max, and keep the rest of your skin-care routine gentle. When it comes to makeup, oil-absorbing products are fine (they won’t strip the skin).
Product pick: Peter Thomas Roth Glycolic 10% Toning Complex ($40, peterthomasroth.com)
3. Gummy Hair Products
Some of the stealthiest offenders? Your hair products, says Downie. Yep, we’re serious. When you spritz, it can get on your skin, and when you perspire, residue can actually drip down onto your face.
What’s safe: If and when possible, it’s always best to go without product in your hair. If you have to use something (hey, we feel you), stay away from formulas that contain lots of oils and silicones.
Product pick: John Masters Organics Sea Mist Sea Salt Spray with Lavender ($17, ulta.com)
4. Anything Super Heavy
Thick moisturizers, rich masks, waxy balms, and superfatty soaps (which are basically any bars and washes formulated for the body) shouldn’t be used on your face, says Downie. That’s because they'll leave oily residues that can cause major shine and clog up pores. No bueno.
What’s safe: For a dose of moisture, use hydrating serums and gel or lotion moisturizers. And instead of masks, opt for peels containing lactic, salicylic, and/or glycolic acid to regulate oil.
Product picks: Philosophy Take A Deep Breath Oil-Free Oxygenating Gel Cream ($40, philosophy.com) and MyChelle Dermaceuticals Ultra Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum ($32, amazon.com)
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