GLOSSARY

WORTH KNOWING

Effects, applications and scientific background.

Back to Overview

Skin Care Guide - Oily Skin

Oily skin – causes, care & modern research findings

What is oily skin?

Oily skin is defined by **excessive sebum production**, which leads to visible shine, enlarged pores, and often blackheads or acne. The so-called T-zone areas (forehead, nose, chin) are often affected, while the cheeks and neck are often less oily. Typically, oily skin later develops fine lines and wrinkles because the sebum protects it from moisture loss. 1

Latest classification: “Oily-Sensitive Skin”

Current research identifies a skin category called "oily-sensitive skin," which exhibits both high sebum production and barrier sensitivity. This mixed condition is complex and demonstrates how finely tuned skincare strategies must be. 2

Main causes of oily skin

  • Genetic predisposition: Often observed in families. 3
  • Hormonal factors: Puberty, menstrual cycle, pregnancy influence sebum production.
  • Stress reactions: Cortisol increases the activity of the sebaceous glands.
  • Environment and climate: Heat and humidity increase oil formation.
  • Inappropriate care: Over-cleansing can lead to feedback: skin produces more sebum.
  • Diet: High-glycemic diets can stimulate sebum production. 4

Typical characteristics of oily skin

  • Noticeable shine in the T-zone
  • Enlarged, noticeable pores
  • Blackheads, pimples, occasional inflammation
  • Make-up sits less well and tends to run
  • In addition, there is often a pale complexion, despite moisture

Nursing strategies – modern and evidence-based

Scientifically based care aims to regulate oil while maintaining the skin barrier:

  • Gentle cleansing: twice daily with pH-neutral gel or syndet, without aggressive sulfates.
  • Hydration without fat: Light, oil-free gels with hyaluronic acid or glycerin.
  • Regulated exfoliation: 1–2 times per week with salicylic acid (BHA), as it is lipophilic and penetrates deeply. 5
  • Barrier-strengthening ingredients: Niacinamide, zinc – they regulate sebum and soothe.
  • UV protection: Light, non-comedogenic textures with mineral filters. 6

Lifestyle influences skin balance

  • Diet rich in vegetables, low in sugar
  • Regular sleep, stress management
  • Everyday hygiene: Change pillowcase regularly, keep hands away from face

Scientific basis & treatment overview

Literature reviews also mention medical options such as topical medications (retinoids, isotretinoin), hormone therapy, or phototherapy in treatment-resistant cases—but only under dermatological guidance. 7

Conclusion

Oily skin is no flaw – modern science shows how to balance it. With targeted care, responsible product selection, and evidence-based active ingredients (such as niacinamide and BHA), skin stays clear and healthy. Those who value a luxury experience with effectiveness – as with NATURFACTOR® – will find the ideal combination of aesthetics and effectiveness.

Sources

  1. DermNet NZ – Oily skin overview. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/oily-skin
  2. Nature – Classification of oily-sensitive skin. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-85000-z
  3. NetDoktor.de – Oily Skin Causes & Care (medically reviewed). https://www.netdoktor.de/koerperpflege/hautpflege/fettige-haut/
  4. Derma-see.de – Nutrition & Oily Skin. https://www.derma-see.de/blog/allgemein/fettige-und-unreine-haut/
  5. PubMed Central – Treatment options review for oily skin. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5605215/
  6. American Academy of Dermatology – Sun protection guide. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/sun-protection
  7. EMJ Reviews – Acne pathophysiology & treatment. https://www.emjreviews.com/flagship-journal/article/acne-treatment-review-and-present-perspectives-j190125/
Back to Overview