Do You Still Need To Moisturize If You Have Oily Skin?

Hi, oily skinned beaut! If you have this question – should I use a moisturizer? – on your mind, then you’re in the right place. When you have oily skin, you may think that moisturizing is the last thing you should do, but that’s where you are wrong! See, hydration is different from oil. Skin oil or sebum is what keeps the skin barrier strong. Hydration is a process where water is absorbed into the skin layers, the dermis and the epidermis to maintain plumpness, elasticity and skin resilience.

Now, you may be wondering, as you wipe off the oil slick from your face, how to differentiate between the two. Excessive oiliness can cause acne and oily skin and when you use oil-stripping products, you also strip away moisture which results in dry, dehydrated (yet oily) skin with a damaged skin barrier. Your skin takes moisture loss into account and produces even more oil, leaving you with oilier skin. Sounds scary, right? But don’t worry, we’re here to help you right those wrongs and set you on the path to skin nirvana. Moisturizing replenishes the moisture loss, preventing your sebaceous glands from going into overdrive.

Few benefits of moisturizing oily skin

• Protects your skin by locking in moisture and keeping it hydrated. It reinforces your skin barrier, shielding you from bacteria and other environmental elements like pollution.
• Regulates oil production and balances your complexion.
• Prevents breakouts as it keeps the skin hydrated, hence stopping the build up of dry dead skin from blocking your pores.
• Some moisturizers can help mattify oily skin as they control oil production and keep you shine-free all day long.

How to Choose Moisturizer for Oily Skin

When picking a moisturizer for oily skin, look for ingredients that soothe, hydrate and balance your sebum levels. Some of these ingredients are niacinamide which soothes and improves the appearance of large pores, rosemary oil which helps regulate oil production, tea tree oil which heals breakouts while unclogging pores and a few other like bergamot oil, moringa oil, salicylic acid, clays and retinol if your skin can tolerate it.

• Look for a non-greasy formula

When it comes to moisturizers, there are 2 formulas – oil based and water based. If your skin is oily, you need a water based one as these are lighter compared to their counterparts. See that they have natural humectants like hyaluronic acid, urea, and glycerin and if your skin is acne prone, soothing ingredients like niacinamide. Our favourite is the super light Mon Cherry Ultra Light Moisturizing Gel which absorbs in just a few seconds!

• Make sure it is non-comedogenic

This means, that the product won’t block your pores and make you break out. This is especially important if your skin is also acne-prone. Look for a quick-absorbing formula that doesn’t leave your skin feeling clogged up. For a moisturizer that’s made especially for your skin type, and one that won’t leave you feeling sticky, try the Chialeader Oil Control Moisturizer that hydrates, replenishes and soothes your skin, all at once.

• Use a moisturizing serum

If you’re not a fan of moisturizers and want to go for something even lighter, pick a serum that packs a punch and delivers just what your skin needs – hydration and nourishment. We like the Bravocado Intense Brightening Serum which keeps the skin supple and soft, thanks to its formulation of avocado, pomegranate and rice water.

• Apply it on damp skin

Think of your skin as a sponge – when it’s damp, it absorbs the product a lot better than when completely dry.  After you have washed your face, if you have the time, give your skin some extra hydration by layer a light essence. Try the Mama Cica Intense Oil Control Essence that balances your sebum levels and soothes irritated skin. Next, pat in your serum or moisturizer after you wash your face. Massage it in if needed – use upwards strokes until completely absorbed.

• Don’t over-moisturize

Unfortunately, there is such a thing. Use a dime-sized amount of moisturizer, only twice a day, or as many times as you wash your face (which shouldn’t be more than twice!). Signs of over moisturizing include clogged pores, breakouts, dead skin build-up and bumps on your face. In case of dead skin build up, exfoliate gently using the Mama Cica Instabright Peel Pads which uses glycolic acid to gently slough away dead skin cells, while the cica in it soothes and hydrates the skin. Make sure to follow up with your skincare routine after!

Follow these easy moisturizing tips for oily skin and get a healthy, long-lasting glow from within. Remember, as with all routines, skincare takes time to show results so stick with it for at least 4 to 6 weeks! Happy moisturizing!

Take a look at these guides to help you take care of your oily skin:

How To Treat Oily Skin

The Best Skincare Routine For Oily Skin

Dealing With Oily Or Dull-Looking Skin? Opt For Clay Masks!

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