Oily Skin - by Editor

Is your skin oily If so, here's what you can do to combat two of the most common problems that accompany oily skin: pimples, and shine.

If you have oily skin, we have some good news and some bad news for you. First, the bad news. People with oily skin have more of a tendency to develop pimples, blackheads and whiteheads, as you probably already know. In addition, your face starts shining due to the oil, making it look dull and dirty. Now for the good news. The excessive oil keeps your skin more elastic, so you will develop wrinkles at a later age than your friends with dry skin will. This is a basic guide to what you can do to combat two of the most common problems that accompany oily skin.

Pimples

One of the most common causes for the formation of pimples is blocked pores. People with oily skin are more likely to have blocked pores, and so, are more likely to have pimples. Your best bet in this case would be simply to wash your face often, with a face wash for oily skin. Clean and Clear by Johnson and Johnson is fairly effective in this regard. How often you should wash your face differs from person to person. A good rule of thumb would be to wash it with a face wash at least 2 times a day once in the morning, and once at night, before turning in. If you are in an air-conditioned cabin the entire day, then you need not wash your face more than required, and stick to the once in the morning and once at night rule. If you exercise, whether your face is oily or not, wash your face also as soon as you are done with your workout. Wash it at the gym itself, and don't wait until you get home, because the perspiration will dry on your face, causing pimples. Similarly, if you travel by public transport and are exposed to a lot of dirt, pollution and warm, humid air, try and wash your face during mid-day as well, bringing it to a total of 3 to 4 times a day. Remember though, if you wash your face more than three times a day, use a gentler face wash like Dove, or wash it just with water.

Shine

How should you get rid of the shine that accompanies an oily face. The best thing would be to splash water on your face as soon as it starts looking oily, and wipe it gently with a towel or tissue. You could also wash your face with a gentle face wash when it starts looking oily, but, once again, don't use a face wash more than 4 times a day, as this may cause your skin to produce more oil. However, washing your face during the day may not be very convenient, since you may not have ready access to a washroom. Or, you may have applied make up, and would not want go through the procedure of re-applying all the make-up after washing your face. In this case, consider simply wiping your face with an absorbent face tissue. Carry tissue with you in your bag at all times it always comes in handy. If you are satisfied with the lack of shine after wiping your face with tissue, great! If not, then consider carrying a compact powder case with you. Dab on the compact powder lightly, making sure it blends well. The compact powder should not be visible as your face will then look caked, and you will look older, and may even look a little haggard. Your compact powder may cause pimples too at times, so if you find your pimples increasing after applying compact, stop using your current brand, and try another brand after a few weeks. To avoid any problems with compact powder usage, the best thing to do would be to remove the compact powder as soon as you get home with the help of a face wash or a cleanser. Also, never apply old compact powder on your face. Use oil-free cosmetics as far as possible. Also, apply an oil-free moisturizer even if you have oily skin, as long as your skin is problem free. Although many beauticians feel that moisturizer is a must at all times, I would recommend that you lay off the moisturizer if you have pimples, until your face is clear.