Creams to Reduce Oily Skin

Oily skin can be caused by genetics, hormones and lifestyle. Oily skin in both adults and teenagers is prone to enlarged pores, blackheads and acne pimples. It results from the excess flow of sebum (oil) that lubricates the skin. In most people with naturally oily skin, sebum production decreases with age. Excess oil on the skin can be reduced with creams formulated for sensitive and acne-prone oily skin.

Gel Creams

Gel cream masks and moisturizers help to control the flow of excess sebum by gently balancing the moisture content of skin. Hydrating oily skin reduces the amount of sebum produced by the sebaceous glands. These cream formulations contain light gel moisturizers that are better absorbed by oily skin, without causing greasiness.

Essential Oil Creams

Essential oils, such as rosemary, lemon, tea tree and cedar wood, are natural astringents that remove excess oils without drying or irritating oily skin. They are found in creams for oily skins or can be added to gel cream moisturizers for better oil control. Essential oils also have anti-bacterial properties that cleanse pores that can often become clogged in oily skin.

Aloe Vera Creams

Aloe vera creams moisturize and soften oily skin. Aloe vera has a matte and cooling effect on oily skin to reduce shine and greasiness. It also has natural healing properties that help to soothe and heal inflamed and irritated skin.

AHA Creams

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) are also known as lactic or milk acids. Creams with AHAs are good for oily skin because they exfoliate and help the skin absorb moisturizers for correct hydration. Alpha hydroxy acid creams improve skin cell renewal to diminish the uneven texture and trapped greasiness of oil skin. It is important to use sunscreen when using creams containing alpha hydroxy acids.

Homemade Creams

Homemade cream masks are an easy and inexpensive way to prevent oily skin. Items found in the kitchen, such as cucumbers, tomatoes and yogurt, can help balance oily skin. To make a cream mask, simply puree fresh tomatoes with 1tbsp. lemon juice and 2 tbsp. face lotion. Apply this mask evenly to the face; rinse off with warm water after 30 minutes. A mask made with avocado and ground oatmeal softens, heals and cleanses oil skin.

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