Understanding Oily, Acne-Prone Skin

I truly understand this struggle. The first thing I do every morning when I look in the mirror is check for new "friends" that have appeared on my face. It's incredibly frustrating, especially when dating - I spend so much time getting ready, only to have oil become the destroyer of my entire makeup look. Within two hours of applying makeup, oil starts appearing around my nose wings, making my makeup look terrible, not to mention those pimples that always seem to pop up at crucial moments.

Whenever I walk down the street, I unconsciously observe other people's skin conditions. I've noticed that quite a few people share the same struggles. According to the latest skin condition survey data, among people aged 15-35, the proportion of those with oily, acne-prone skin reaches 65%. Among Asian populations, this number is even higher at 70%. This might be inseparably linked to our genes, dietary structure, and living environment.

Even many celebrities struggle with oily, acne-prone skin. Remember when that popular young actress removed her makeup on that variety show, revealing surprising oil shine and acne marks? This made me realize that whether you're an ordinary person or a celebrity, we all face the same skin problems.

Analyzing the Causes

When it comes to the causes of oily, acne-prone skin, it's enough to make one want to cry. First, there's that unavoidable genetic factor. Both my parents have oily skin, and I couldn't escape this fate. According to research data published in authoritative medical journals, if both parents have oily skin, the probability of children inheriting this trait is as high as 80%. This statistic really makes one feel that fate is unfair.

Then there's the hormonal influence. Around menstrual periods, facial oil secretion becomes particularly active, and pimples appear one after another. Research shows that for every 10% increase in androgen levels, sebum production increases by about 15%. This explains why we're especially prone to pimples around our menstrual periods.

Environmental factors also play a role. Urban air quality is generally poor nowadays, with PM2.5 levels frequently exceeding standards. These tiny particles adhere to the skin surface and, over time, slowly clog pores, causing various skin problems. Especially on days with severe air pollution, the skin noticeably feels uncomfortable, and oil secretion becomes even more active.

We should also discuss how stress affects the skin. Young people today generally face a lot of pressure from work, studies, interpersonal relationships, and other sources. Stress stimulates sebaceous gland secretion, leading to sebum secretion imbalance. According to research, people under long-term high stress experience an average increase in sebum production of about 20%.

Dietary habits are also an important factor. Young people nowadays love eating spicy foods like hot pot and barbecue, or having late-night snacks after staying up late. These habits can worsen oil and acne problems. High-sugar, high-fat, and spicy foods stimulate sebaceous glands, leading to more severe oil production. Statistics show that people who frequently consume such foods have about 40% higher acne incidence than others.

Morning Skincare

When it comes to morning skincare routines, there's quite a bit to know. Let's start with cleansing. I remember when I first started skincare, I thought my face had to feel very dry after washing to be truly clean. Looking back, that was a huge mistake. Over-cleansing actually damages the skin barrier and leads to more sebum production.

After multiple trials, I found that gentle amino acid cleansers are most suitable. Their pH is around 5.5, very close to the skin's naturally acidic environment. Using these products to wash your face doesn't cause tightness but still effectively cleanses. Many major brands have launched amino acid cleansing products, ranging from tens to hundreds of dollars - just choose what works for you.

Toner selection is also important. Many people think oily skin needs alcohol-based toners, but this thinking is problematic. While alcohol-based toners make skin feel especially fresh, this freshness comes at the cost of damaging the skin barrier. Long-term use actually makes skin oilier.

I now use a toner containing niacinamide, which is particularly suitable for oily, acne-prone skin. It not only regulates sebum secretion but also improves pore issues. Clinical studies show that using products containing 2% niacinamide continuously for 8 weeks can reduce sebum secretion by about 25%. Plus, niacinamide has whitening effects, making it a miracle ingredient for those of us prone to acne marks.

Sunscreen is also a crucial step in morning skincare. Many people with oily, acne-prone skin think sunscreen is too greasy and skip it altogether. This thinking is wrong. UV rays not only worsen pigmentation but also stimulate sebum secretion. I recommend choosing sunscreen with a light texture, with SPF30+ and PA+++ or higher protection levels.

Evening Skincare

In the evening, skincare focus shifts to deep cleansing and repair. Many people come home exhausted from work and feel too lazy to do skincare. This is particularly problematic behavior. Remember, our skin faces various pollutants during the day, and if we don't cleanse properly at night, these pollutants accumulate in our pores and eventually break out as acne.

Double cleansing is my most recommended cleaning method. The first step uses gentle makeup remover to clear oil-based impurities like makeup and sunscreen. The second step uses a facial cleanser to remove remaining water-based impurities. Research shows that compared to single cleansing, double cleansing can remove about 30% more dirt and makeup residue.

After cleansing comes the essence repair phase. I particularly recommend products containing salicylic acid. Salicylic acid is a gentle exfoliating ingredient that can dissolve oil and dead skin cells in pores, preventing acne formation. However, when starting to use it, you must progress gradually, beginning with low concentrations like 0.5% and slowly transitioning to 2% concentration.

Hydration and moisture are equally important. Many people with oily, acne-prone skin think they don't lack water, but this thinking is wrong. Research shows that over 60% of oily, acne-prone skin types have dehydration issues. When skin lacks water, it produces more oil to protect itself. Therefore, choosing a suitable moisturizing product is really important.

Core Ingredients

When choosing skincare products, pay special attention to core ingredients. Besides the previously mentioned salicylic acid and niacinamide, there are other ingredients that are great helpers for oily, acne-prone skin.

For example, tea tree oil has good antibacterial effects and helps prevent and improve acne. However, concentration must be controlled well, generally not exceeding 5%, otherwise it may irritate the skin.

Then there's hyaluronic acid, which has undeniably good hydrating effects. But you need to choose the right molecular weight - too large won't be easily absorbed by the skin, too small might irritate it. Generally, molecular weights between 50-1500kDa are most suitable.

Vitamin C is also a good choice, as it not only whitens and removes spots but also has antioxidant properties. However, vitamin C oxidizes easily, so you must choose products with good stability. It's best to use it at night since vitamin C increases skin sensitivity to UV rays.

Personalized Advice

Everyone's skin condition is unique, so care plans should vary by individual. I suggest recording your skin condition, such as daily oil production levels and the number and location of pimples. After some time, you'll notice patterns and can better adjust your skincare routine.

Diet also requires attention. Eat less spicy and stimulating foods, and more vitamins-rich vegetables and fruits. Maintaining regular sleep patterns is also important - staying up late is absolutely the skin's enemy. Ensure adequate sleep daily, and skin condition will naturally improve.

Exercise is also a good method for improving oily, acne-prone skin. Appropriate exercise can promote blood circulation and help toxin removal. However, be sure to clean your skin promptly after exercise, as sweat mixed with sebum can easily clog pores.

Maintain a balanced mindset. Often we worry too much about facial acne, creating psychological pressure that actually worsens oil and acne problems. Learn to accept your skin condition and be patient with care - believe that through persistence, you will see changes.

Actually, oily, acne-prone skin isn't an incurable condition. As long as we master correct care methods and maintain good living habits, we can definitely improve skin condition. I hope everyone troubled by oily and acne-prone skin can find suitable care methods and achieve healthy, radiant skin.

Remember, skincare is a marathon, not a sprint. Don't expect immediate results - have patience, and believe that through persistent care, you too can achieve your ideal skin condition.