Ok, so in the world of skincare, there's a lot of misconceptions and hand-me-downs when it comes to beliefs. One hand-me-down belief is that using a moisturiser will lead to oilier skin (just like eating crusts makes your hair curly!). But is this claim correct? Let's sort fact from fiction on this common belief.
Will moisturiser make my skin oilier?
Straight up, this is fiction! Using a moisturiser does not mean greasy or oilier skin. In fact, moisturisers actually play a significant role in maintaining a healthy, balanced complexion.
The importance of moisturisers in your skincare routine
So our skin naturally produces sebum which is an oily substance that helps to lubricate and protect the skin. While we may not like the presence of sebum, it's actually doing it's bit to help us! But, genetics, hormones and environmental aggressors can all disrupt the skin's oil balance, which leads to oily skin.
This is where moisturisers come in. Moisturisers are formulated to balance the skin's moisture levels. By providing hydration and moisture, moisturisers support the skin's barrier function, which keeps it plump and protected. When the skin is hydrated, it signals the sebaceous glands to produce less oil. In turn, regulating sebum production.
So while it may seem counterintuitive to add moisture and oil to oily skin, it may in fact help to reduce the oily skin you're dealing with.
How do I choose the right moisturiser?
Now that we've established the beneficial role that a moisturiser plays in your skincare routine, it's time to choose the right skin for your skin. If you're reading this, chances are you have combination or oily skin, so we're going to run with that. Look for lightweight and oil-free formulas that are designed for combination or oily skin types. This type of formulation should adequately hydrate and moisturise, without adding excess oil.
Tips for combination and oily skin types
- Cleanse your face morning and night with a gentle, hydrating and non-stripping cleanser to remove excess oil and impurities. Oil absorbs oil, so you might opt for an oil-based cleanser like Clarity, $55
- Use a toner containing witch hazel to soak up excess oil for a refined and even complexion. We recommend Harmony, $55
- Exfoliate once or twice a week to remove dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores. You may like a chemical exfoliant like Canvas, $69, or a physical scrub like Polished, $55
- Avoid alcohol-based, harsh and drying products that can strip the skin's natural oils, as this can contribute to the oil production cycle
- Follow a routine designed for combination or oily skin types
And there you have it - myth busted! Using a moisturiser will not make your skin oiler. In fact, it can help to balance oil production and maintain your skin barrier. Just be sure to use a moisturiser designed for your skin type!
