Oily Skin Problems and Solutions

Every time the winds get chilly and winters take over, the odds are that your skin might feel tightness, become dry and flaky, take on a 'red' look and it's only to blame the harsh winter freezing air, dry winds, and low humidity both indoors and outdoors. Apart from that, it also gets triggered with our own merciless skin treatments including exceedingly hot showers and insufficient moisturizing. As a result, you complain of getting a dry itchy face. "Water helps maintain essential hydration of the outer layers of your skin, thus creating an effective barrier that safeguards the body from bacteria attacks and irritants," says Kenneth Beer, MD, director of the Palm Beach Esthetic Center, in Florida. To keep your skin staying fresh, looking healthy and feeling soft during winters, here is what you should do:

Oil Skin Problems

Though your skin's natural oil - sebum - does give you some protection from, however, it might not be i sufficient enough at all times. "Your surface might look greasy and shiny even while the underlying layers are not properly hydrated," says Jody Alpert Levine, MD, owner and co-founder of Plastic Surgery & Dermatology of NYC, in New York City. When your skin feels tight, shows flaky areas, and sensitivity and itchiness, it means your oily skin is lacking the essential moisture.
Retain Your Oily Skin's Essential Hydration

Cleanse:

Cleansers containing exfoliating and antibacterial properties, with benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid as main ingredients, are considered as the best products for keeping the skin clean and clear. However, in winter, it is advisable to use products with contain these active ingredients in lesser quantity.

Moisturize:

A mild, oil-free moisturizer will help in water retention in the upper layers of your skin without blocking your pores. Bear in mind that oil cannot replace the hydration needs of your body. Also remember, that even if you don't apply a moisturizer, you still require sunscreen lotion to avoid picking on a tan, even in winter. Besides, did you know winter sun is more harmful than summers?

Treat:

Treat your skin well. Though, in case you you regularly use an acne treatment product for keep excess oil away and avoiding skin breakouts then you should stop that practice immediately, according to dermatologist David Bank, MD, director of the Center for Dermatology, Cosmetic & Laser Surgery, in Mount Kisco, New York. Try using benzoyl peroxide with salicylic acid as a substitute. This has similar antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties but with less drying effects.

Extra:

Use a pore-cleaning mask twice a week. It is an ideal practice to get rid of excess oil, but better use one with moisturizing ingredients.