Think you can skip moisturiser because of oily skin? Here’s why you’re wrong

Our skin is the largest organ and performs various functions. From protecting the internal organs to acting as a barrier against external harm, the skin is essentially responsible for keeping us healthy inside and out. At the same time, our skin has to go through a lot of stress due to exposure to harmful UV rays, pollutants and bacteria present in the environment. Hence, it is extremely important to take care of the skin and take active steps towards ensuring its health. This can be done by regularly following the cleansing-and-moisturising routine.

This simple routine is widely recommended by the medical community due to its ability to clear the skin surface of dirt and strengthen the skin barrier through moisturisation. However, it is the last step that worries those who have oily skin.

Here’s why most people with oily skin tend to skip moisturisation

Our skin has sebaceous glands that produce a wax-like oily substance called sebum. Sebum coats the skin, ensuring that it is protected against harmful substances in the environment and stays moisturised. Those who have oily skin often blame their sebaceous glands for being overactive and producing excess oil which leads to issues like:

• Shiny skin
• Big pores
• Increased risk of acne
• Increased instances of blackheads and whiteheads

Due to these issues, people with oily skin think that applying a moisturiser will only exacerbate their issues. However, this is far from the truth.

Oily skin needs moisturisation too. Here’s why 

The main function of the sebaceous glands is to keep the skin protected which is done by producing sebum. When we go the extra mile to remove oil from our skin surface, be it using a face wash, a face pack or a toner, our sebaceous glands actually go into overdrive. This happens because the sebaceous glands react to the removal of natural oil from the surface and start to produce excess oil in order to perform their protective function. Hence, trying to eliminate oil from your skin can actually prove to be counterproductive, especially if you have oily skin.

Also Read

5 simple butter face masks for glowing and soft skin Read Now

Skipping moisturising can actually lead to excess oil production which will only exacerbate the issue of clogged pores, frequent acne breakouts and whiteheads.

The other thing is that you need to understand that a good moisturiser can hydrate your skin and strengthen its protective ability. At the end of the day, hydrated skin is different from oily skin. Well-hydrated skin can keep your skin supple, reduce the clogging of pores and add a natural glow to your skin.

The type of moisturiser to use if you have oily skin

If you have oily skin and are concerned that using a moisturiser will only add to the oiliness, your fears are not unfounded. You do need to pick a moisturiser which will help you moisturise without adding to the oil present on your skin surface. So, look out for oil-free moisturisers. A lot of people with oily skin swear by gel-based moisturisers because they hydrate the skin without making it look greasy or shiny. In addition, you should look for products which are non-comedogenic in nature. This means that they’re designed to ensure that your pores don’t get clogged.