Do I Need to Moisturize My Oily Skin?

“I think I need something to dry it out, not make it oilier.”
“Why do I need to moisturize my already oily skin?”
“My skin is oily enough, why would I add more moisture?”
 
People with oily skin have commonly expressed these concerns when asked about moisturizing. So should you moisturize oily skin? YES, you need to moisturize your skin, even if it is oily and acne-prone. To understand why, let's take a closer look at what a moisturizer really does.
 
Moisturizers don’t add water to your skin, but rather help hold the water in the outer layer of your skin to keep it hydrated. How do they do that? Moisturizers contain ingredients called humectants, which draw the water into your skin, and emollients, which form a protective film and trap the water in the skin. There are all kinds of different moisturizers from lotions and creams to gels. Some are water-based, others oil-based. With so many choices, how do you know what is right for your skin?
 
Remember, everyone’s skin is different. The same product that works well for one person, may not be the best option for you. Be ready to experiment with different moisturizers until you find the one that works best for you. Here are some tips to help you find a moisturizer that is compatible with oily skin:

• Lotions and gels tend to be more water-based and therefore less likely to aggravate oily, acne-prone skin. Avoid ointments as they are greaser and fat or oil based.
• Skin care products labeled “oil free” or “non-comedogenic” are less likely to clog your pores and cause acne.
• Limit the amount of products applied to your skin by choosing a moisturizer containing a broad-spectrum sunscreen. SPF 30 or higher is recommended.
• If you choose to use a sunscreen separate from your moisturizer, look for sunscreens that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as these are less likely to cause breakouts. Also, avoid sunscreens with fragrances or oils.
• You should always apply your moisturizer while your skin is still damp, such as after a shower or after washing your face. This timing will trap the water in your damp skin.

 
Want another helpful hint? When choosing a face wash, choose something gentle. Using a harsh face wash may actually irritate your skin and trigger increased oil production.
 
If you’re concerned about your skin’s oil production or struggling with acne breakouts, contact us. We will be more than happy to help!

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References:

• Mayo Clinic: ​ Moisturizers
• American Academy of Dermatology:  How to control oily skin