If you’re an oily-skinned gal, you know managing your complexion can be a hassle. Do you moisturize too much or too little? Why does it always feel like a pimple pops up before a big event? Why do you have an oil slick by 10am that makes it look like you’re sweating during your morning meeting? These are all things that have probably gone through your head when wrestling with an oily complexion.
The good news is, if you have oily skin, your skin will stay line-free and healthier looking longer. The downside is managing all that excess sebum. Here are few mistakes to avoid if you have oily skin.
Over-drying cleansers
Many people with oily skin think using a drying cleanser will help keep the shine away. Unfortunately, drying cleansers can actually cause your skin to produce more oil. When you strip your skin of natural oils, it kicks oil production into overdrive to compensate. Instead, use a gentle cleanser
that leaves moisture intact. You’ll be surprised how much this reduces oil.
Alcohol-based toners
Alcohol-based toners are too harsh and will strip your of the natural oil it needs. If you’ve ever noticed that your skin actually looks more shiny after using an alcohol-based toner it’s because the skin has been stripped and that shine is actually coming from the skin being pulled and dried out. Instead try a gentle, alcohol-free micellar water 
in addition to cleansing, which works particularly well to balance oily skin. You can learn more about how micellar waters work to clean deeper than regular toners here:
Micellar Water: What It Is and How To Use It
Not moisturizing
This is another big mistake. Again, dehydrating the skin can kick oil production into overdrive. Try using a light, gel-based moisturizer that will provide just enough moisture to keep your skin balanced and avoid triggering your skin to overcompensate. We love Vichy Aqualia Thermal Mineral Water Gel Facial Moisturizer because it’s lightweight and leaves just the right amount of moisture.
Not Doing Regular Masks
If I could only keep one beauty product on hand for the rest of my life, it would be a clay based face mask
. Masks are essential to keeping oil at bay and clearing out gunk from your pores. If you do nothing else to your skin, at least do a clay-based face mask 2-3 times per week. This alone helps with acne, clogged pores, oiliness, and dullness tremendously.
Using The Wrong Makeup
Opt for formulas meant for oily skin. Primers, foundations, concealers, powders etc. specifically formulated for oily skin
will help keep oil at bay throughout the day. Look for semi-matte formulations and products that are non-comedogenic (won’t cause acne). Check out our articles on great products for oily skin:
Tried & Tested: The Best Foundations For Oily Skin
The Best Shine-Busting Products For Summer
Overscrubbing
Unfortunately, you can’t scrub blackheads and acne away. In fact, overscrubbing can overstimulate your skin and cause more oil. It’s best to only exfoliate your skin every other day.
Not Getting Regular Facials/Extractions
Oily skin requires more maintenance than other skintypes. It’s best to get an extraction facial at least once a month to remove blackheads and clogged pores. As much as products make promises to clear your skin, congestion doesn’t usually go away without being extracted
. So, to keep your skin in top shape, get deep cleansing facials regularly.
Using Harsh Products, Too Much
When our skin is breaking out we have tendency to go crazy trying to clear up the acne. This can actually make your skin much worse. Instead, be gentle with your complexion. Don’t strip it or apply a bunch of harsh chemicals. Instead spot treat just the areas where you’re breaking out and be sure you’re keeping your skin moisturized. Pure aloe vera gel works great to moisturize and soothe broken out skin. You can mitigate redness and irritation caused by acne products such as benzoyl peroxide
by keeping your skin soothed and moisturized.
