Cures for Oily Faces

The skin's sebaceous glands sometimes produce too much oil, resulting in an oily face. Oily skin makes your face look shiny, and it can contribute to dermatological conditions including acne and seborrheic dermatitis. You can use at least four topical treatments to remove excess oil and clear up acne. Does this Spark an idea?

Soaps and Cleansers

One of the simplest and most effective treatments for oily skin is to wash your face with soap or a non-soap cleanser. Because soaps are alkaline, they can irritate the skin and even promote the growth of acne-causing bacteria. A safer alternative is a hypoallergenic synthetic cleanser that is pH-balanced to have a pH of 5.5, like your skin.

Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide has been a popular acne treatment since the 1950s. It has a strong antibacterial effect on Propionibacterium acnes, the species of bacteria that causes acne. It also helps dry up excess oil and increases exfoliation of the skin's outer layer. Benzoyl peroxide can cause skin irritation, so start with a low concentration, such as 2.5 percent, and test it on a small area of your face.

Retinoids

Available by prescription, retinoids are chemically related to vitamin A. Retin-A is the best-known retinoid medication, but several brands of retinoids are available either as a cream or as a gel. Retinoids can cause irritation. They may make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so apply sunblock before spending time outdoors. In some cases, retinoids may temporarily make acne worse during the first few weeks of use.

Salicylic Acid

You can find salicylic acid in many over-the-counter acne remedies, including creams, liquids, gels and wipes. Salicylic acid helps to prevent clogged pores by helping the outer layer of the skin flake off. Although most people tolerate salicylic acid well, some people have allergic reactions to it. Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, avoid combining salicylic acid with benzoyl peroxide or abrasive scrubs to avoid causing excessive irritation.