Oil is a prized commodity. So much so that Nations spend billions of dollars every year to hire geologists to go around the planet with their magnetometers and gravity meters held out wide in search of new oil reserves. Wars have been fought over it and a nation’s economic welfare is pretty much determined by the volumes of crude it exports/imports. But this cupidity for oil will turn into animus if the detected wellspring of oil is on ones face and not in the backyard of their homes. Whatever be your profession, having an oily skin can be irksome and will open the door towards multiple skin diseases if not properly taken care of.

What is Oily Skin?

Oil or technically ‘Sebum’ is an oleaginous substance discharged by the sebacious glands to help the skin retain the moisture content. However, if the sebum production goes into an overdrive it can make your skin and hair oily, thereby making it more prone to disintegration by external bacterial agents. This bacterial action on sebum will eventually result in fetor and skin diseases.

What causes Oily Skin?

While every human being has sebaceous glands, the quantum of sebum production is determined by various factors including their genetic disposition, hormonal imbalances and emotional influences. Adolescents are more prone to fluctuations in hormone levels and are more likely to experience increased sebum production. This answers the inordinate number of pimples and acnes human beings develop during their adolescent years.

Tips to manage Oily Skin more effectively

• Wash your skin at regular intervals with fresh water.
• It is advised to use blotting paper. Blotting paper absorbs the oil in your skin thereby not allowing bacterial proliferation
• Consult a dermatologist and find out a cleanser that suits your skin type.
• Administration of chemical peels on your skin after consulting your dermatologist.

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The information provided in Dr. Dixit's answer is for educational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice. The information provided should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultations with a qualified health professional who may be familiar with your individual medical needs.