Why your face is oily
Sebum production is set mostly by genetics and hormones, which is why it runs in families and why it peaked in your teens. Male skin averages more of it. You are not doing something wrong.
What you can influence is the part that makes oily skin look worse: how much dead skin is mixed in with the oil, and whether the skin is dehydrated underneath and over-producing to compensate.
The mistake almost everyone makes
Washing more, using something stronger, skipping moisturiser because "my face is already oily". All three strip the barrier, and stripped skin frequently responds by producing more oil, not less. The shine comes back faster and the skin gets rough at the same time.
If your face is oily and feels tight, that is the signature of this exact cycle.
What actually moves the needle
- A gentle cleanser, twice a day at most. Not squeaky.
- A light moisturiser, daily. Gel or lotion, not cream. This is the step that breaks the cycle.
- Salicylic acid, two or three times a week. It is oil-soluble, so it gets into the pore rather than sitting on top. This is the one thing that genuinely helps blackheads.
- Sunscreen that suits oily skin. Fluids and gels exist. The heavy white cream is not your only option.
What does not work
Pore strips pull out the top of the plug and leave the rest, so it refills within days. Physical scrubs create micro-irritation on skin that is often already inflamed. Alcohol-based toners give an hour of matte and a rebound afterwards.
Blotting paper is fine, by the way. It does nothing for the cause but it is honest about that.
