First, it just might be in your genes. Heredity is one of the more common culprits for oily skin. If one or both of your parents have oily skin, odds are that you will too. And while you certainly can't change your genes, it may make you feel better to know that it's nothing that you're doing to cause it.
Next, it could be your diet. There are a number of foods that are known to stimulate oil production in people who are prone to it. And there is something you can do. Avoid foods that are fried, foods that are high in sugar, and foods that are over-processed. These are probably the most common culprits. As your mother told you, eat your vegetables. Drink your water. And above all, eat foods that are rich in nutrients. They will not only help your skin but they may help you shed a few pounds and feel a lot better in the process.
Hormones could be playing a role. That is why many teenagers suddenly come down with a case of shiny skin as their bodies begin producing more hormones and, more specifically, a specific type of testosterone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Unfortunately, there is not a lot you can do to treat this since your body will do what your body will do. This is an area where most oily skin treatments prove ineffective and cause more frustration than good.
For those of you who are either pregnant or who have been pregnant, you probably experienced a nice burst of oil. Hormonal changes during pregnancy will very commonly lead to over production of sebum and cause oily skin. Is that the beautiful glow of pregnancy or simply shiny skin? Many times the two go hand in hand. What are you using on your skin?
Various cosmetics can contribute to oil production and either cause it or simply make it worse. So watch what you're using and make sure to only use products with high quality ingredients designed specifically for people with sensitive skin.
Humidity or just hot weather in general can lead to increased perspiration and often then to too much oil. If you live in an area that is humid, try and get out of the humidity once in a while and it might help improve your skin.
A little too much stress? Emotional changes and a stressful lifestyle can also lead to oily skin because of the effects that stress can have on your hormones. So take a little breather now and again and it might actually help control that oil.
Finally, are you washing your skin too much? Aggressive washing of your skin or simply washing it too frequently can actually trigger production of oil and make your skin look worse. Two times a day is plenty to keep your skin healthy and glowing. So these are a few of the more common reasons for that oil.
Next time you see that unwanted shine, think about a few of these things and see if there are any ways that you can naturally cut back on the oil. The most effective oily skin treatment is prevention. Your skin will be glad you did!
