How to control oily skin?

I'm 17 years old and my face produces a lot of oil. I've used facial cleansers and some cosmetics but it hasn't improved. Could you please advise me on how to control it? (Tuan Anh, Binh Duong )

Reply:

Oily skin is the result of the sebaceous glands producing too much sebum. Common characteristics include constantly oily, shiny skin, large pores, blackheads, and acne. Oily skin is more common in men, especially teenagers, and can be controlled using the methods below.

Washing your face properly every morning, evening, and after exercising helps remove excess oil and dirt from your skin. Choose a cleanser for oily, acne-prone, or sensitive skin, and avoid scrubbing too hard as this can easily cause irritation. After washing your face, you can apply toner to the T-zone to balance pH levels and tighten pores.

Choose lightweight , oil-free liquid skincare products , and consider combining a cleanser with makeup remover for deeper cleansing. Using a moisturizer for oily skin daily helps balance moisture and reduce sebum production. Adding products containing BHA, retinoids, sulfur, niacinamide, zinc, etc., can also help control oiliness.

People with oily skin are prone to acne. Photo: Freepik — People with oily skin are prone to acne. Photo: *Freepik*

Apply sunscreen when going outside to prevent sun damage. Choose one containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, with an SPF of 30 to 50. Avoid sunscreens that are oil-based or fragrance-free.

Use oil-absorbing paper by gently pressing it onto your face and holding it for a few seconds to absorb excess oil. Wiping the paper too quickly won't remove all the excess oil.

Exfoliate once or twice a week to remove dirt, unclog pores, and prevent acne. Avoid touching your face as this can spread dirt and bacteria. Only touch your face after washing your hands.

Maintain a balanced diet , limiting sugary, fatty, dairy products, spicy, and greasy foods. Include plenty of fruits and vegetables such as carrots, tomatoes, spinach, kiwi, and apples. Drink enough water to hydrate and prevent dehydration, which can lead to dry, cracked skin.

Sebaceous gland oil production is a normal bodily function. However, excessive production can negatively impact the skin.

The causes may include hormonal changes, commonly seen during puberty, pregnancy, menstruation, and menopause. Eating spicy, greasy foods and stress also increase sebum production. Incorrect skincare practices, using unsuitable cosmetics, environmental factors, and side effects of medications (such as birth control pills and diuretics) can also contribute to oily skin.

To improve your condition, you should seek treatment at a reputable facility. The doctor will examine your skin condition and advise on appropriate care and treatment.

Dr. Nguyen Thi Kim Dung
Dermatology and Cosmetic Dermatology Department, Tam Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City

Readers can ask questions about dermatology and cosmetic skin treatments here to receive answers from doctors.

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