Oily skin happens when glands produce extra oil (sebum), leaving your face feeling greasy and looking shiny. It protects your skin, but too much can lead to breakouts and clogged pores.
UAE heat got your face lookin’ like an oil slick? Don’t worry, we got you! This guide’s packed with simple tips to control that shine, no matter if you’re a dude or a dudette.
We’ll talk about cleansers, moisturizers, sunscreen (super important!), and blotting tricks that work like magic. Plus, some extras for both guys and gals. Ready to rock a fresh, balanced complexion all summer? Let’s do this! ➡️➡️➡️
Understanding Oily Skin Men vs. Women
Men: Testosterone, the male hormone, is a major culprit behind oily skin. It stimulates the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum, the natural oil that keeps your skin lubricated.
In the UAE’s heat, this production goes into overdrive. It leads to larger pores, thicker sebum, and a constantly shiny appearance. Additionally, shaving can irritate the skin, further increasing oil production.
Women: In Women, Hormonal fluctuations throughout the month play a significant role in their oily skin struggles. Estrogen levels tend to decrease during the second half of the menstrual cycle.
It leads to increased sebum production and breakouts. Pregnancy, menopause, and certain medications can also impact hormonal balance, affecting oil production.
oily skin problems for men and women
Daily Cleansing: The First Line of Defense
Men: Opt for a foaming cleanser with salicylic acid. This ingredient gently exfoliates, unclogs pores, and reduces surface oil, giving your skin a mattified finish.
Avoid harsh soaps that strip away natural oils. This can irritate your skin and trigger even more oil production.
Women: Choose a gentle, oil-free cleanser with glycolic acid. This alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) exfoliates dead skin cells, preventing breakouts and promoting smoother texture.
Be mindful of your skin’s sensitivity, as AHAs can be slightly drying. opt for a lower concentration or alternate days if needed.
skin-cleansing-men-and-women
Skin Moisturizing
Men: Contrary to popular belief, even oily skin needs moisture. Choose a lightweight, oil-free gel moisturizer with hyaluronic acid.
This ingredient attracts and retains water, hydrating your skin without leaving a greasy residue. Look for formulas with non-comedogenic ingredients that won’t clog pores.
Women: opt for a hydrating lotion with ceramides. Ceramides are essential building blocks of your skin’s barrier, helping it retain moisture and protect against environmental damage.
Look for formulas that are lightweight and oil-free to avoid any unwanted shine.
Skin Moisturizing
Sun Protection
Both: Regardless of your gender, sun protection is paramount in the UAE’s harsh climate. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen that is oil-free and non-comedogenic.
Apply it generously every two hours, even on cloudy days.
Remember, sun damage can worsen oil production and contribute to premature aging.
Sun Protection
Blotting & Touch-Ups
Both: Keep blotting papers handy to absorb excess oil throughout the day. Gently press them onto your skin, focusing on areas like the forehead, nose, and chin.
Avoid rubbing, as this can spread oil and irritate your skin.
Men: Consider using mattifying powders for extra shine control on the go. Look for formulas specifically designed for oily skin to avoid clogging pores.
Women: opt for blotting papers with mineral makeup powders for touch-ups. This allows you to absorb oil and even out your complexion without adding unnecessary weight or shine.
Extra Tips For Oily Skin Success
Both
Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated helps regulate oil production and keeps your skin looking plump and healthy.
Aim for eight glasses of water- per day.
Eat a healthy diet: Limit processed foods and sugary drinks, which can contribute to breakouts.
Opt for fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to nourish your skin from within.
Get enough sleep: Stress and lack of sleep can disrupt your hormones and worsen oily skin.
Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep each night.
Men
Shave carefully: Use a sharp razor and a gentle shaving cream to avoid irritation. Consider shaving in the direction of hair growth to minimize ingrown hairs.
Exfoliate regularly: Gentle exfoliation can remove dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores. Use a physical or chemical exfoliant once or twice a week, depending on your skin’s sensitivity.
Women
Manage stress: Stress can trigger hormonal fluctuations and worsen oily skin. Practice relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation to manage stress levels.
Track your cycle: Knowing your menstrual cycle can help you anticipate hormonal changes and adjust your skincare routine accordingly.
Product Recommendations for Men & Women
Remember, these are general recommendations, and consulting a dermatologist is crucial for personalized advice. However, here are some popular options to get you started:
product recommendations for men and women
For Men
Cleanser
Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser for Oily Skin:
This gentle cleanser effectively removes dirt and oil without stripping the skin.
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel Cleanser
This medicated cleanser contains salicylic acid to combat breakouts and control oil.
Moisturizer
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel: This lightweight gel moisturizer hydrates without clogging pores.
Kiehl’s Oil Eliminator 24-Hour Hydrating Gel: This oil-free formula absorbs quickly and provides long-lasting hydration.
Sunscreen
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 60: This non-comedogenic sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection without a greasy residue.
Clinique Men Maximum Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 50+ Fluid Sunscreen: This lightweight formula is water-resistant and sweat-proof.
For Women
Cleanser
CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser: This gentle cleanser removes dirt and oil without stripping the skin’s natural moisture.
The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser: This oil-based cleanser gently dissolves makeup and impurities, leaving the skin soft and hydrated.
Moisturizer
Aveeno Calm + Restore Nourishing Oat Facial Moisturizer: This fragrance-free moisturizer soothes and hydrates sensitive skin.
Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel: This lightweight gel provides oil-free hydration for all skin types.
Sunscreen
Bioderma Photoderm AR SPF 50+: This lightweight sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection while controlling shine.
EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46: This mineral sunscreen is gentle on sensitive skin and offers excellent protection.
Remember: Consistency is key! Stick to your routine and be patient, as it may take a few weeks to see results. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different products to find what works best for your unique skin.
