Oily skin treatments

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Oil is produced by oil glands known as sebaceous glands. These glands are more prominent on the face than other areas of the body and tend to come online during puberty. Other areas on the body where sebaceous glands are most heavily concentrated are the neck, chest and back areas- common places for acne.

The amount of oil an individual produces is determined genetically, with a hormonal influence. During adolescence an increase in the level of sex hormones, known as androgens, awakens the oil glands, which in turn produces sebum (oil). For women, hormone changes occur not only during puberty, but at the start of each menstrual cycle.

Although oily skin will remain oily throughout your life, as you age, oil gland activity will decrease. In most patients, this decrease in activity starts in the 4^th decade of life.

Though diet is not the sole cause of acne and oily skin, in some patients dietary factors may flare up their condition. Eating a healthy and well balanced diet may reduce the flare up of acne.

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In most people, sebum or oil is produced in normal quantities, which is needed to keep skin health and glowing, however in 10% of the population and excessive amount of oil is produced – the skin and hair no longer looks healthy, but instead can feel greasy, slick and even dirty. Excessive sebum production can cause acne in patients as oil production may increase fatty acids, which in turn can increase inflammation and proliferation of bacteria. This, in turn, can lead to pustules- or so called ‘zits.’

In other people, excessive oil can be felt and seen. Patients often complain of ‘greasiness’ especially on areas such as the nose and forehead areas where there are the highest concentrations of sebaceous glands. Additionally some patients suffer from excessively greasy scalp and hair, which can be both uncomfortable and embarrassing.

These simple solutions should be the first step in looking after oily skin.

1. Wash you skin twice a day with a gentle cleanser. We suggest Cetaphil Oily skin wash from your chemist. Do NOT excessively wash your skin, as this may strip away the protective layers and cause irritation.  A good cleanser is one designed to remover excess oil, whilst leaving intact a barrier of fatty acids to help maintain the function and protect the skin. Twice a day washing is ideal.
2. Do not scrub your face with a cloth. Dab instead, as this is gentler on your skin. Blotting paper maybe used regularly.
3. Do NOT use any oil based cosmetics, use water based non comedogenic make up.
4. Clay of mud masks may also help, although there are no medical studies to prove they work. These treatments can temporarily pull oil from the pores and soak it up. The effects are usually temporary, leaving the oily skin fresher looking for several hours afterwards.
5. Use an oil free moisturiser which is light on your skin. Oil or sebum is different compared to moisture. A moisturiser can protect your skin barrier, and, if incorporated with AHA at a low concentration, can cause a controlled exfoliation of your skin, reducing sebum build up.
6. Products such as OC 8 can absorb oil for up to 8 hours and decrease facial shine. OC 8 incorporates absorbent technology to reduce oil build up on the skin’s surface.

If, despite your best efforts to control oil production, your skin is still feeling greasy, there are dermatological treatments that can help. Speak to your General Practitioner for a referral to see a dermatologist for assessment of your skin and a plan to reduce your skins oil production.

Topical retinoid treatments for Oily Skin

Medically prescribed creams may also improve the oiliness of the skin. This simple solution is effective in 20-30% of patients, however the effects are temporary. These creams are designed to treat acne, and can have effects on the oil or sebaceous glands. A combination of retinoid creams works best.

Hormonal Treatments for Oily skin

In female patients, the production of oil is driven by certain hormones known as androgens. An oral contraceptive pills containing an anti-androgen such as Diane, Estelle, Yaz or Yasmin may be effective.

Other anti-androgens include Spironolactone or Cyperterone Acetate in higher concentrations.

Chemical Peels for Oily skin

Gentle chemical peels such as AHA/ Glycolic acid peels may temporarily  reduce the look of oily skin and regulate the moisture content of the skin. Dermatologist often combine the use of AHA with topical retinoids for superior results.

Roaccutane/ Oratane treatments for Oily skin

This form of treatment gives the most convenient and predictable results for oily skin. Roaccuatane has both immediate and long term results, and in many patients offers a permanent solution for Oily skin. In many cases, only ultra low doses of Roaccutane  are required to control oil production.

Roaccutane/ Oratane is a Specialist Dermatologist regulated prescription medication.

More information on Roaccutane/ Oratane

As we are a specialist group of doctors, a referral from your GP is advised. Call Westside Dermatology on (07) 3871 34 37 to make a booking or to enquire about the referral process.

moreDr. Davin S. Lim

Dr Davin S. Lim, Consultant Dermatologist

Oily skin or seborrhoea is a common condition that has significant impact on patients. Excessive oiliness can be both an emotional and physical burden. The simplest step is a sensible skin care regime including methods to mop up excessive oil. In female patients, a pill with anti-androgenic effects, such as Diane, Estelle or Yaz may be of benefit.

The most successful method of treating seborrhoea is with low dose roaccutane. Most patients do not experience side effects on this dose, and is as convenient as taking one tablet a few times a week.