The Oily Skin Myths You Need to Stop Believing Right This Minute

Been noticing oily blotch marks on your screen each time you put the phone down? Welcome to the grease club, girl. If your skin falls victim to acne flare-ups and the sheen on the epidermis is far from flattering, you've got a problem at hand; dealing with an oily skin type requires patience and perseverance. And, during this arduous journey—replete with one too many hiccups and hurdles—you're bound to give in to a few, if not multiple, myths. 

From 'if you have oily skin, you can skip moisturisation' to 'blotting paper can help minimise oil production,' we've jotted down the most commonly circulated oily skin myths that you must've fallen prey to at some point in time—but wait, they're FAR from true. 

Listen up. 

Myth #1: Oily Skin is a Prerequisite to Acne

When it comes to acne, multiple factors must be taken into consideration—diet, hormones, stress, liquid intake, genetics—not just sebum over-production. "Although, in many ways, these determinants tend to go hand-in-hand. The excess sebum on the skin’s surface tends to clog your pores, along with dirt, grime, dead skin cells, bacteria, and impurities. That said, possessing an oily skin type in no way guarantees that you'll have to tackle acne as well," says Supriya Malik, Founder, Indulgeo Essentials. 

Myth #2: Repeatedly Washing Your Face is a Must 

Those with oily skin often resort to over-washing—an assumed solution to combat oil over-production. "Over-washing may do more harm than good", reveals Hartej Singh, PhD Pharmaceutics and Dermatologist, Re'equil. "Dermatologists believe that certain acne cleansers—especially those laden with potent surfactants such as sulphate—can make your skin overly dry by interfering with its inherent oil balance. To replenish the lack of natural oils, your sebaceous glands will overproduce oil, ultimately giving way to clogged pores and flare-ups. Cap your face-washing to twice a day," he suggests. 

Myth #3: Alcohol-Based Products Work Best on Oily Skin

"Alcohol-based formulas will not solely strip your skin off of its natural oils, but they won't contribute to improving your skin health in the long run either. Contrary to popular belief, these potent potions will cause the topmost layer of your skin to become excessively dry, signalling your skin to over-produce oil to compensate for the loss in hydration," Supriya explains. 

Myth #4: Blotting Paper Can Bring Down Oil Production

A blotting paper, also known as bibulous paper, is a thin sheet that works to absorb excess oil from the surface of your skin, mattifying its appearance. Though, no permanent alterations in oil production should be expected as a result of using blotting paper. "While bibulous papers are a quick and easy hack to get rid of excess greasiness, they are a temporary solution, having minimal or no effect on the amount of oil your skin produces," she adds. 

Myth #5: If You Possess Oily Skin, You Can Skip Moisturisation 

While lathering a heavyweight cream or lotion may not feel particularly gratifying, dermatologists hold that moisturisation can help regulate sebum production, maximise your skin's water content, and prevent the loss of moisture—this, in turn, lends a more even-toned skin texture. So, as mentioned previously, if you don't apply a moisturiser, your skin will compensate for the moisture loss by producing excess sebum. Opt for a lightweight, non-greasy formula for hydrated, supple skin.