We understand your problem. Those dreaded teen years are done and pimples are now a thing of nightmares. But your skin still looks like an oil slick even though you religiously scrub and cleanse. We feel your pain! Men tend to have overactive sebaceous glands that cause oiliness. On the flip side greasy skin ages more slowly so when you hit your 40s, your skin will still be looking young and line-free when your peers will be reaching for anti-aging potions. But the bad news is for now you can look messy and unprofessional. Besides, having oily skin means treading a fine line between too much oil and too little of it. Nykaa spoke to experts on the best ways for guys to keep shine at bay without over-drying skin.
How to take care of oily skin in 5 easy steps!
1. Don’t over-exfoliate
You see a film of oil and reach for that scrub. Don’t! “Over-exfoliation is a common mistake most men with acne-prone or oily skin make,” says dermatologist Dr. Anju Methil. Over-scrubbing in the quest for squeaky clean pores can cause chronic inflammation and zap the skin of its oil film, which sets off increased oil production to compensate. Instead, stick to a face wash meant for oily skin like The Man Company Charcoal Face Wash With Ylang-Ylang & Argan. Once a week use a glycolic based scrub like Natio For Men Purifying Face Scrub to get rid of dead surface cells.
2. Clay Mask
If you thought masks were for sissies, think again. A clay mask is ideal for oily skins because the Fuller’s Earth soaks up moisture leaving your skin feeling refreshed. Plus it tightens pores and draws impurities—and oil—from pores. Nykaa recommends Votre Derm Repair Clay Masque, a multi-functional formula enriched with the goodness of Neem, Turmeric, Nutmeg and Fennel for normal to oily skin. Use it as a daily cleanser or a once-a-week skin treatment.
3. Choose a Non-Greasy Sunscreen
Sunscreens can sit heavily on skin and cause even the driest skin to look greasy. So the key is to look for a formula with an oil-controlling matte finish. Neutrogena UltraSheer Dry Touch Sunblock SPF 50+ is recommended for oily skin types. It’s a non-sticky, oil-free, waterproof and sweat- proof formula that gives UVA and UVB protection.
4. Skip the Face Towel
Who would have thought! Instead of mopping your sweaty brow with a trusty handkerchief or face towel, use an absorbent paper towel instead and throw after use. Using the same towel over and over again just serves to spread the oil—and bacteria—all over. Keep a stock of Dromen & Co Green Tea Blotting Paper handy. Finally, remember to press down firmly on oily areas rather than rub at them.
