What is it
Oily skin is a condition characterized by an abundant production of sebum, the lipid substance that comes out of the hair follicles and forms a protective film on the skin that limits damage due to dust, pollutants, wind and sunlight.
When the production of sebum is particularly high, it is called seborrheic oily skin, a condition that facilitates the development of seborrheic dermatitis, the formation of dandruff and the aggravation of acne. In the male it can be easily associated with androgenetic alopecia (hair loss).
Causes
The production of sebum is regulated by hormonal stimuli. In particular, androgen hormones such as testosterone (also present in women) and progesterone stimulate its secretion, while estrogen tends to hinder it.
Hormones in the adrenal glands, including cortisol, also increase sebum production, which is why stress is often at the root of the disorder.
However, there are also genetic factors that predispose to excessive sebum production, a trait that is often present in members of the same family.
When sebum becomes too thick and waxy, it hinders skin perspiration and occludes hair follicles, creating an environment conducive to the development of microorganisms.
This favors the development of pimples and, through the inflammation it determines, can aggravate acne, which has a different origin, although always linked to hormonal mechanisms.
Most common signs
Oily skin usually has an oily sheen, but it can also take on a deceptively rough, dry, orange-peeled appearance, which can even suggest psoriasis. This condition, called asphyxiated skin, is due to dilation of the walls of occluded hair follicles, which continue to store fatty substance.
Treatment
Oily skin should be treated with mild cleansers, possibly added with substances that inhibit bacterial reproduction, azelaic acid or benzoyl peroxide.
Instead, excessive cleansing or based on aggressive detergents, such as alkaline surfactants, which stimulates skin cells to produce even more sebum, should be avoided. This type of skin also needs a particularly thorough cleaning to avoid the occlusion of the follicles and the formation of comedones.
Once a week, after cleansing, it is good to dilate the pores with the use of hot water or a steam bath to then proceed with the application of a delicate exfoliant. To close the pores it is sufficient to use cold water.
Oily lotions and cosmetics should be avoided.
Exposure of the skin to the sun, which tends to slow down sebum production, may be beneficial. For this purpose, UVA lamps can also be used, but with extreme moderation and possibly after consulting a dermatologist, because their excessive use could dehydrate the skin.
In summary, here is what is best to do or not to do in case of oily skin:
What to do | What not to do |
---|---|
Use mild detergents | Use aggressive detergents |
Carry out a particularly thorough cleaning | Excessive cleansing |
Apply a gentle exfoliant once a week after dilating the pores with hot water or a steam bath | Use oily lotions and cosmetics |
Expose your skin to the sun or UVA lamps |
In the most problematic cases it is good to consult your doctor, who can recommend creams based on anti-inflammatory, antibacterial substances, antifungals and sebum-regulating such as ketoconazole, selenium sulfide or zinc pyrithione.
Cortisone-based creams, which exert an action very rapid anti-inflammatory, instead they should be taken only under control doctor and for short periods to avoid possible side effects.
When to consult your doctor
In cases where the blemish caused by oily skin is considered excessive or there is a tendency to recur continuously in seborrheic dermatitis, you should contact your doctor who will prescribe the most appropriate treatment and, possibly, analysis to ascertain if the condition is supported by an excess production of male hormones due for example to polycystic ovary, insulin resistance and so on.
Joycelyn Elders is the author and creator of EmpowerEssence, a health and wellness blog. Elders is a respected public health advocate and pediatrician dedicated to promoting general health and well-being.
The blog covers a wide range of topics related to health and wellness, with articles organized into several categories.