The Absolute Worst Ingredients for Oily Skin
As the co-founder of a natural skincare company inspired by the lush beauty of Hawaii, I’ve encountered countless individuals struggling with oily skin.
It’s a common concern that can lead to a frustrating cycle of breakouts, shine, and clogged pores.
While many products claim to be the solution for oily skin, the truth is that some ingredients can actually exacerbate the problem. Today, I want to shed light on the absolute worst ingredients for oily skin and offer alternatives to help you achieve the balanced, radiant complexion you desire.
Mineral Oil
One of the most problematic ingredients for oily skin is mineral oil.
This petroleum by-product is often touted for its moisturizing properties, but it can be a nightmare for those with oily skin. Mineral oil creates an occlusive barrier on the skin, which might sound good in theory — after all, we want to lock in moisture, right? However, for oily skin types, this barrier can trap sebum, dead skin cells, and bacteria, leading to clogged pores and acne breakouts.
Plus, mineral oil doesn’t actually deliver deep nourishment to the skin. It simply sits on top, potentially interfering with the skin’s natural processes and exacerbating oiliness. If you see ingredients like paraffinum liquidum, petrolatum, or mineral oil on a product label, it’s best to steer clear if you have oily skin.
Instead, look for lightweight, non-comedogenic oils like jojoba or grapeseed. These natural oils help balance your skin’s oil production while providing necessary hydration. At Eavara, we favor natural, plant-based ingredients that work in harmony with your skin, not against it.
Alcohol
It might seem counterintuitive, but certain types of alcohol in skincare products are detrimental to oily skin. Ingredients like denatured alcohol, ethanol, or isopropyl alcohol are often included in products marketed for oily skin because they create a temporary matte effect and a feeling of “clean” skin. However, this effect is short-lived and potentially harmful in the long run.
These harsh alcohols strip the skin of its natural oils, which might seem like a good thing for those battling excess oil. However, this stripping action triggers your skin to produce even more oil to compensate, creating a vicious cycle. Additionally, the drying effect of these alcohols can lead to irritation and inflammation, potentially worsening acne and other skin issues.
Not all alcohols are bad, though.
Fatty alcohols like cetyl or stearyl alcohol are beneficial, acting as emollients and thickeners in skincare products. The key is to avoid the harsh, drying alcohols that disrupt your skin’s natural balance.
Fragrance
Fragrance in skincare products can be irritating, especially for those with oily and acne-prone skin. Whether listed as “fragrance,” “parfum,” or “essential oils,” these ingredients can trigger inflammation and irritation, potentially leading to increased oil production and breakouts.
The problem with fragrance is twofold. First, it’s often a cocktail of numerous chemicals, many of which can irritate the skin. Second, companies aren’t required to disclose the specific components of their fragrances, making it difficult to identify which particular ingredients might be causing issues for your skin.
For those with oily skin, opting for fragrance-free products is best. This doesn’t mean your skincare routine has to be boring. Many natural ingredients have their own pleasant, subtle scents without the need for added fragrance.
At Eavara, we harness the natural aromas of our plant-based ingredients, ensuring our products are effective and enjoyable to use without unnecessary irritants. Our Pure Paradise Night Cream smells lovely!
Silicone
Silicones like dimethicone or cyclomethicone are often found in primers, moisturizers, and other skincare products. They’re praised for creating a smooth, silky feel on the skin and filling in fine lines and pores. However, for those with oily skin, silicones can be problematic.
Like mineral oil, silicones create a barrier on the skin. While this can temporarily make your skin look smoother, it can also trap oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria underneath, potentially leading to clogged pores and acne breakouts. Additionally, the layer of silicone can interfere with your skin’s natural cell turnover process and prevent other beneficial ingredients in your skincare products from penetrating the skin effectively.
Instead of relying on silicones for a smooth finish, look for products with natural ingredients that improve your skin’s texture over time. Ingredients like niacinamide, salicylic acid, or gentle exfoliants can help refine your skin’s texture without the potential drawbacks of silicones.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is widely used in many personal care and cleaning products. It's known for its ability to create a rich lather and effectively remove oil and dirt from surfaces, including skin and hair. This powerful cleansing action is why SLS is commonly included in shampoos, body washes, face cleansers, and even toothpaste. Its widespread use is also due to its low cost and effectiveness in small quantities.
However, SLS has garnered controversy in recent years because it can cause skin irritation. It strips the skin of natural oils, potentially leading to dryness, irritation, and increased oil production as the skin tries to compensate. For individuals with oily skin, this overcompensation can exacerbate existing issues.
Embracing the Right Ingredients
Now that we’ve covered the worst offenders, you might wonder what ingredients you should look for.
For oily skin, lightweight, non-comedogenic hydrators are key. Look for products containing hyaluronic acid, which provides hydration without heaviness. Niacinamide is another excellent ingredient for oily skin, as it helps regulate oil production and improve skin texture.
Natural clays, like kaolin or bentonite, can be beneficial in masks or cleansers for oily skin, as they help absorb excess oil without over-drying. Gentle, plant-based exfoliants can also help manage oily skin by removing dead skin cells and unclogging pores.
Pamper Your Skin with Quality Ingredients
At Eavara, we understand the unique needs of different skin types. Our products contain natural, effective ingredients that work in harmony with your skin. We believe that by avoiding harsh, irritating ingredients and embracing gentle, nourishing ones, you can achieve balanced, radiant skin — regardless of your skin type.
Pay attention to how your skin reacts to different ingredients and products. With patience and the right approach, you can find a skincare routine that helps manage oiliness and promotes a healthy, glowing complexion.
*This blog offers health, wellness, fitness and nutritional information and is designated for education purposes only. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional medical advice, diagnosis and treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other health-care professional. Do not disregard, avoid or delay obtaining medical or health related advice from your healthcare professional because of something you may have read in this blog. The use of this information is solely at your own risk.
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