What's The Ideal Cleanser for Oily Skin?

Overview

The first step to caring for oily skin is an effective facial wash that cleanses away excess oil and impurities. This will prevent clogged pores which minimises breakouts and blemishes. When choosing the ideal cleanser for oily skin types, look for a formula that is not too harsh, and avoid ingredients that strip the skin too much of its natural oils. The ideal cleansers for oily skin and large pores will remove unwanted build-up and shine while leaving skin feeling light and hydrated.

What to Look For in a Facial Cleanser for Oily Skin 

• A gentle formula that will not over-cleanse or strip the skin
• Hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid for moisture retention
• Protective ingredients like 3 essential ceramides to support the skin’s barrier 
• Niacinamide for reparative and nourishing properties
• Non-comedogenic formulas which won’t clog pores

Oily Skin Explained

Oily skin is a result of the body producing too much sebum, a natural oil found within the skin. While sebum is needed for hydration, too much oil can contribute to blackheads, pimples, and the appearance of greasy skin. Oily skin can also be caused by other factors such as hormones, stress levels, and humidity. Maintaining a balanced level of sebum will ensure you have soft, hydrated, and clearer skin.

How Do I Choose an Oily Skin Cleanser?

Cleansers for oily skin can come in a range of different textures, including foams, creams, and gels. When selecting an oil control facial wash, avoid cleansers that leave the skin feeling tight or uncomfortable as this is a sign that the skin has been stripped too much of its natural oils. The ideal facial washes for oily skin wash off dirt, makeup, and excess oil without damaging the skin’s natural barrier or hydration levels.

People with oily skin types can tend to over-cleanse their face. Avoid over-washing your skin as this can prompt additional sebum production, which results in even oilier skin. To achieve a fresh and clean result, CeraVe recommends washing your face every morning, evening, and after exercise with a gentle cleanser formulated for oily skin.

What Ingredients to Look For in a Facial Cleanser for Oily Skin 

Ensure your oil control facial cleanser is dermatologically tested and formulated with ingredients that will help manage oily skin. 

Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid is an important ingredient for retaining moisture in the skin. It is a natural sugar that helps to maintain your skin’s plumpness and hydration without clogging pores. A water fountain in your skin cells, hyaluronic acid can retain 1,000 times its weight in water, leaving skin feeling soft and supple.  

Niacinamide
Niacinamide, which is also known as B3, is a reparative ingredient that helps to protect the skin. Niacinamide is a powerful vitamin that helps build a strong barrier against environmental factors, such as UV rays, and moisture loss, encouraging brighter and more youthful-looking skin. Niacinamide is found in CeraVe’s Foaming Facial Cleanser.  

Salyclic Acid
Removing build-ups, salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid that gently exfoliates the skin as it loosens damaged cells, sloughing off any dead skin cells. In doing this, salicylic acid reveals new skin cells, leading to a fresher looking complexion. This gentle but effective exfoliator is a key ingredient in cleansers designed for oily and blemish-prone skin.  

Ceramides
Ceramides are protective lipids that strengthen your skin’s barrier which keeps out harmful irritants whilst maintaining moisture within the cells. Without an adequate supply of ceramides, your skin barrier can become compromised against irritants from pollution and other environmental forces.  

When looking for the ideal facial wash for dry skin, try choosing a product which incorporates 3 essential ceramides to reduce dryness, redness, and breakouts. A facial cleanser for oily skin should contain ceramides as a key ingredient as they support the skin’s natural protective barrier during the washing process, sealing in moisture. All of CeraVe’s products including the CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser contain 3 essential ceramides that support stronger and more hydrated skin.