Oily Skin: shine-free skin starts here

What is oily skin?

Oily skin is a skin type that is characterized by an overproduction of sebum. This secretion of sebum takes place in the areas where the sebaceous glands are found, mainly the face, but also the anterior surface of the thorax and the central part of the back.

An increase in sebum production occurs with an increase in androgen (male hormones) production, beginning in the teen years. It can also occur, for the first time, in menopausal women. Testosterone is secreted into the body and enters the sebaceous glands. The enzyme 5a reductase converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone, which stimulates sebum production. In some cases, sebum production is balanced, as the skin requires oil to ensure proper barrier function and remain supple and pliable. It is the overproduction of sebum that causes the skin to become excessively oily.

 

What is a good skincare routine for oily skin?

With oily skin, we need to be careful not to “strip” the skin of oil, as this will only make the skin increase its sebum production to rebalance itself. Avoid alcohol that dries out the skin and disrupts the barrier function.

A cleansing gel, as opposed to a cleansing milk, is often preferred for oilier skin types. It is imperative to cleanse the skin morning and evening.

Exfoliation is also important, as excess oil acts as a “glue” that holds dead cells on the surface of the skin. This impairs the penetration of active ingredients into the skin and suffocates the skin, as it is unable to take in the oxygen it requires. Often, oily skin appears dull with a grayish undertone resulting from impaired respiration that is caused by this buildup of dead cells.

 

Creams and concentrates, with active ingredients that assist in balancing the sebaceous secretions, that diminish bacteria and that leave a matte finish, should be used morning and evening. Most products for oily skin are water-based, however, they may contain some specific oils that are non-comedogenic to keep skin secretions balanced.

What ingredients to look for?

  • Oleanolic Acid + NDGA – Keratoregulating, reduce sebum production and inflammation
  • Salicylic Acid – Keratoregulates, controls bacteria
  • Zinc Amino Acids –Bacteriostatic, antiseptic and anti-seborrheic action
  • Kaolin - Helps to purify, absorbs sebum and detoxifies the skin to give it a bright and refreshed appearance
  • Niacinamide - Improves the appearance of pores and imparts a more even-looking skin tone

Your G.M. COLLIN skin care routine

PURACTIVE + CLEANSING GEL

Formulated with an innovative antimicrobial cleanser, a synergy of seven plant extracts and chlorophyll, this gentle foaming and refreshing cleansing gel:

  • Removes excess makeup, sebum and impurities.
  • Deeply cleanses pores and invigorates the skin.
  • Purifies and refines the appearance of enlarged pores.
  • Leaves the complexion look and feel supple and refreshed.

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DEEP CLEANSING SOLUTION

An in-depth, antimicrobial cleanser that:

  • Dissolves embedded impurities.
  • Remove excess oil.
  • Restores skin balance.
  • Refines the skin’s texture.

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PURACTIVE+ TREATING MIST

This purifying, hydrating and mattifying mist:

  • Minimizes the appearance of pores and visibly reduces sebum.
  • Soothes and purifies the skin, providing a healthier looking and more balanced skin.
  • Leaves the skin refreshed, sooted, with a matte finish

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ESSENTIAL OIL COMPLEX

Containing a synergy of essential oils, Salicylic Acid and Aloe Vera, this easy-to-use fluid complex:

  • Effectively soothes and refreshes acne-prone skin without causing dryness.
  • Improve the look of localized blemishes and comedones.
  • Leaves the skin looking healthier, perfectly matte and soft to the touch.

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PURACNE GEL

An acne treatment for a clear, pure and blemish-free skin. Formulated with:

  • 2% Salicylic Acid: Helps keeping pores clean to treat and prevent acne. Provides an anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effect.
  • Boldo extract: Visibly drecreases redness and refines skin texture.
  • Niacinamide: Improves the appearance of pores and imparts a more even-looking skin tone.

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PURACTIVE+ CREAM

Formulated with antimicrobial peptides, this light, non-oily oxygenating cream:

  • Mattifies the skin and tightens pores.
  • Purifies the skin and promotes a healthier looking and more balanced skin.
  • Reduces sebum production and prevents blocked pores.
  • Refreshes and illuminates the complexion.

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PURE MASK

ormulated with superberries, a source of powerful antioxidants, this purifying velvety and clay-rich mask:

  • Absorbs excess sebum without drying the skin.
  • Tightens the appearance of pores.
  • Purifies and reveals a fresher looking skin.
  • Helps to visibly improve a dull complexion.

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Written by KAREN ASQUITH - DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION AT G.M. COLLIN