Oily skin is more than just a cosmetic concern. Many people suffer from oily skin and are faced with a wide variety of treatments, yet some may be more effective than others.
In this resource, we will be talking about what oily skin is and its common causes. We will also be learning more about hyaluronic acid, its impacts on oily skin, and how topical beta glucan combined with HA can be an effective treatment for an oil-free, healthy skincare routine.
What is oily skin?
Oily skin is the result of overactive sebaceous glands that produce excess natural oils, leading to a shiny or greasy appearance on your skin. (1)
Studies suggest that there can be many reasons for oily skin, including heredity factors, humidity, and stress.
Hormonal changes can also trigger these glands.
Oily skin is also one of the main causes of skin blemishes and acne, due to the overproduction of sebum.
You may presume that having an abundance of oil would keep your complexion hydrated, but it can in fact lead to issues like clogged pores and skin more susceptible to breakouts.
When dead cells mix with this surplus oil, they form plugs that block hair follicles, creating white or blackheads.
Inflamed bumps or pimples occur when bacteria invade these blocked follicles.
Treating oily skin involves controlling its production without stripping away necessary moisture.
This delicate balance requires a careful selection of skincare products containing ingredients known for their ability to regulate sebum output while keeping the surface hydrated.
With understanding comes empowerment. In our next section, we will dive into one such ingredient - hyaluronic acid.
How does hyaluronic acid work?
Hyaluronic acid, a key skincare ingredient, is more than just a buzzword. It contains a substance known as ‘humectant’ that is able to attract and retain moisture similar to a sponge. (2)
This high-molecular-weight polysaccharide originates from the connective tissue extracellular matrix of our bodies.
The beauty industry has harnessed its power to create various hyaluronic acid products for topical applications that promote skin health.
But what makes HA (hyaluronic acid) so special?
Hyaluronic acid helps decrease sebum production in oily skin types according to scientific studies. (3)
This suggests it can be a successful strategy for moderating the oiliness of the skin without causing dryness or aggravation.
For those seeking to improve their skin health, hyaluronic acid is an ideal solution.
This incredible skincare component is a revolutionary solution for any skin type, even those with oily and acne-prone complexions.
Hyaluronic acid serums are like magic potions that work wonders on the skin's surface. It shows they have an incredible ability to keep your skin hydrated.
Hyaluronan or hyaluronic acid helps in maintaining moisture balance by attracting water molecules from the environment onto the surface of our epidermis (outer layer).
It can retain over 1000 times its weight in water. This means it's not just great at keeping dry patches at bay but also helping control oily areas.
Apart from hydration benefits, did you know this natural compound plays a crucial role in wound healing?
According to studies published by Cosmet Dermatol, it has been found effective in reducing wrinkles too.
Studies have shown that within the complicated biological process of skin aging in the human body, one of the most common side effects is skin dryness. (3)
As HA is extremely effective in maintaining skin hydration, it can naturally boost a healthy skin barrier by reducing dry skin and boosting skin moisture.
Skin allergies can result in excessive skin itching, redness, and even swelling. As hyaluronic acid fillers are made up of substances similar to those created in the human body, it is unlikely to cause allergic reactions. (4)
However, if you experience any form of skin redness, itchiness, or skin dryness after using HA, be sure to contact your doctor or dermatologist as soon as possible.
Discover more: Hyaluronic Acid Allergy: Causes, Side Effects, and Treatment
As hyaluronic acid contains hydration properties without clogging the skin's pores, it may be suitable for acne. One of the largest causes of acne is excessive oil production, also known as the overproduction of sebum.
Sebum is the body’s response to keeping the skin moisturized.
Dive deeper: Is Hyaluronic Acid Good for Acne
If you have tried hyaluronic acid before and need a few natural alternatives, here are 5 to look out for:
Vitamin E is a class of fat-soluble vitamins that protect cells from damage. Many skin conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, and dry or itchy skin, may benefit from vitamin E oil. Additionally, it might promote wound recovery, wrinkle prevention, and scar reduction.
Known to be the most effective humectant due to its ability to penetrate the skin. Glycerin may help to protect your skin and prevent the growth of bacteria.
Vitamin C serum offers health benefits for your skin, such as possible protection from sun damage as well as promoting the production of collagen. Vitamin C has a trusted safety profile as most people are able to use it long-term without experiencing adverse effects.
In addition to these natural HA alternatives, there is one that has taken the world by storm...
Beneath its unassuming guise, Beta glucan is revolutionizing the beauty industry with its acclaimed efficacy as a topical treatment for all skin types.
This natural compound has proven its effectiveness as a topical treatment that benefits all skin types - from dry to sensitive to oily ones.
A topical application clinical study for women showed a 27% improvement in skin hydration, a 59% improvement in anti-aging facial wrinkles as well as a 29% improvement in elasticity and skin firmness within a period of 8 weeks.
Suggested reading: What Is Beta Glucan?
Ever wondered how beta glucan creams work?
These potent formulations may enhance your skin cells' defense mechanisms against external factors like UV rays and pollutants.*
Beta glucans not only aid in defending skin cells from outside elements, but they also help maintain the skin's moisture and suppleness.*
Beta glucan replenishment cream offers a variety of additional benefits:*
A consistent skincare routine is essential for achieving healthy skin, and hyaluronic acid with beta glucan are two powerful ingredients to consider.
Not all skincare products are created equal. Not only does our beta glucan skin cream contain the purest form of beta glucan with real aloe vera, but it includes four additional hyaluronic acid compounds:
This works like a sponge to help the skin hold on to water, which makes cells more flexible and plump. HA is known for being able to hold as much as a thousand times its own weight in water.
Is it also known to improve the appearance of fine lines and reduce the signs of aging.
This is an even smaller HA molecule that can get deep into the skin to feed it and hold water to make it less wrinkled. It is a more effective antioxidant than HA.
It has the ability to provide after-sun healing and better sun protection.
Sodium Hyaluronate Acetylated is another type of hyaluronic acid that remains on the skin's surface to keep water from evaporating, restore skin hydration, and make the skin softer with more of a flexible skin feeling.
It is also less sticky and has a better look than regular HA.
This special HA mesh can hold 5 times more water than "normal" HA. This cross-linked, water-filled HA gel acts as a hydrating serum that makes a smooth film on the skin and releases any trapped water. This promotes skin moisture for longer periods of time.
We've journeyed through the landscape of oily skin and its causes.
We have also discussed how overactive sebaceous glands can lead to excess production of natural oils, clogging pores, and making your skin prone to acne.
In our quest for solutions, we discovered hyaluronic acid - a potent skincare ingredient with immense promise for managing oiliness while keeping the skin hydrated.
Beta glucan emerged as another powerful ally for all skin types - from dry to sensitive to oily ones. It works by enhancing your skin cells' defense mechanisms against external factors like UV rays while maintaining supple hydration levels.*
Yes, hyaluronic acid can be beneficial for oily acne-prone skin. It helps control oil production and keeps the skin hydrated without clogging pores, reducing the likelihood of breakouts.
Both have unique benefits. Vitamin C brightens and evens out skin tone while fighting free radicals. Hyaluronic Acid hydrates and controls oil production. Using both in your skincare routine could yield optimal results.
Hyaluronic Acid is great at hydrating and controlling sebum production whereas Salicylic Acid is a powerful exfoliant that unclogs pores, making it ideal for treating existing acne. (5)
Beta glucan replenishment cream is able to penetrate all layers of the skin to replenish and maintain skin moisture. Amongst others, beta glucan skin cream can promote the healing of wounds, act as an anti-inflammatory agent, stimulate collagen synthesis, and soothe sensitive skin.*
(*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease).
Our ACES Team is always there to help.