How to deal with oily skin

Here are a few tips you can follow to get rid of your oily face problems all year 'round.

Oily skin can be a problem no matter the time of year. It can be genetic and is often the results of hormones. The unbalanced pH levels of the skin can cause it to become oilier than you'd like. Keep reading to find out what you can do to help banish your oily skin problems for good.

Many people use alcohol-based cleansers and toners to combat oily skin, only to create the opposite effect.

• The skin, sensing a deficit, responds by producing more oil to replace what’s been lost. Treat an oily face with products made for oily skin, such as a pH-balanced cleanser and alcohol-free toner.
• Steer clear of facial scrubs, which will only aggravate oily skin.
• And never go to bed without removing your make-up and washing your face. (That’s a good rule of thumb for everyone, oily or not.)

Try to keep your hands away from your face, and wipe the handset of your phone – and yes, your cell phone – weekly with an anti-bacterial solution.

There’s a common misconception that oily skin doesn’t need moisture, but oil and moisture are not the same thing.

• Even oily skin can become dehydrated, and when you moisturize, you’re hydrating the skin.
• Use a light, oil-free moisturizer after cleansing to lock in moisture.

Masks with AHA, BHA or other enzymes gently exfoliate and stimulate the skin at the cellular level, while clay mud masks help tighten pores.

• Consider adding a mask to your weekly skin care regimen.

Luckily for those who wear makeup, there are many oil-free options to choose from in the cosmetics aisle.

• Try a mineral-based powder foundation and opt for matte eye shadows and blushes.
• Clean your makeup brushes regularly in warm water and light detergent.
• Rinse well, then squeeze excess water and lay flat to dry.

Blotting sheets are a convenient and inexpensive way to get rid of excess oil buildup fast.

• Keep some in your purse and press them on the skin anytime you feel oil building up on your face throughout the day. Bonus: this is a great way to remove oil without messing up your makeup one bit.

It’s probably no surprise, the recommended eight glasses of water a day is also good for treating an oily face.

• Hydration is essential to proper skin pH balance. Squeeze half a lemon into your glass to boost your complexion.

Follow these simple tips to help get rid of an oily face in any season.