Everyone produces a natural oil called sebum which maintains the skin on the face. Skin type is determined by how much oil the skin on your face produces. You are then placed into one of three categories: dry, combination or oily.
The oily skin type means that the sebaceous glands produce more sebum than necessary. Although sebum is needed to lubricate the skin, protecting it from drying out, too much can lead to a shiny appearance. Excess oil can also cause pores to become clogged and breakouts to occur.
Some people have an oily skin type because their parents passed on that gene. Others have oily skin due to environmental factors and have more chance of getting it under control. Over-washing can lead to excess sebum being produced, as the sebaceous glands constantly try to replace the moisture that is washed away. Various medications can cause oily skin, as can diet and certain cosmetic products.
At Harpenden Skin Clinic we would usually recommend a consultation with one of our highly experienced aesthetics team before suggesting an appropriate treatment suited to your oily skin.
If you relate to this condition but still feel unsure, at Harpenden Skin Clinic we are always here to help and advise patients on the best possible treatment journey performed by experienced clinicians.