Blemished and oily skin: How to keep the skin in balance

Many people experience periods of oily or blemished skin, often in connection with puberty, when the body's hormones increase the skin's sebum production. But oily and blemished skin is not just a teenage phenomenon, it can occur at any age and fluctuate with hormones, seasons and stress. It is completely normal. This guide explains why the skin becomes oily and blemished, and how to care for it gently so it comes into better balance.

Important: If the skin bothers you a lot, or you have severe or painful breakouts, you should talk to your doctor or dermatologist. This article is about daily, cosmetic care, not about treating a skin disease.

What is oily and blemished skin?

Oily skin is caused by the sebaceous glands producing plenty of sebum. This often gives a shiny surface, especially in the T-zone (forehead, nose and chin), and can lead to clogged pores and bumps, which we call blemished skin. A little sebum is healthy and protects the skin, but in excess it can feel troublesome.

Why does the skin become oily?

Hormones

Hormonal fluctuations, for example during puberty, around menstruation or with stress, can increase sebum production.

Heredity

How oily your skin is, is partly genetically determined.

Incorrect care

Paradoxically, harsh degreasing can make it worse: When the skin is stripped of fat, it can compensate by producing even more sebum.

Weather and environment

Heat and humidity can increase sebum production, while cold can dry out the surface, so the skin becomes both dry and oily at the same time.

The most important rule: Oily skin also needs moisture

It is a widespread misconception that you should degrease oily skin as much as possible. When you remove the skin's natural fat, it can become dry and compensate by producing even more sebum. Mild moisture is therefore a better choice than harsh degreasing. ByLykke Skin Repair absorbs quickly and provides moisture without feeling oily.

A gentle routine, morning and evening

1. Cleanse gently morning and evening with a mild product or just lukewarm water, without scrubbing.
2. Give light moisture with a non-comedogenic cream that does not clog the pores.
3. Do not pick at bumps, as it can make things worse and leave marks.
4. Avoid alcohol-based products that dry out and can trigger more sebum.

How to find your skin type

Let the skin dry after a bath, and wait half an hour before applying products. If the skin feels tight, it is dry. If it feels normal or oily, it is normal or oily respectively. Many have combination skin, oily in the T-zone and normal or dry on the cheeks.

Good habits for oily and blemished skin

• Keep the skin clean with mild cleansing morning and evening, without scrubbing.
• Give the skin moisture, even if it seems oily, for example with ByLykke Repair.
• Change pillowcases and clean make-up brushes regularly.
• Live healthily with plenty of water, a varied diet and exercise.
• Protect against the sun and large temperature swings.

Frequently asked questions

Should I use moisturiser if my skin is oily?
Yes. Choose a light, non-comedogenic cream that provides moisture without clogging the pores.

Does it help to wash the face more often?
Not necessarily, as frequent or harsh washing can make things worse. Twice a day is usually appropriate.

What is the difference between oily and blemished skin?
Oily skin is about a lot of sebum, while blemished skin is about clogged pores and bumps. They often go together.

Note: ByLykke's products are cosmetic skincare, not medicines. They are not intended to treat, relieve or prevent disease.