‘Does my oily skin need a moisturizer’? – Some of our clients who have oily or acne-prone skin (kapha dosha) have often expressed concerns over this simple question. While it is true that moisturizing oily skin is a bit complicated, it’s also imperative to never skip it! 

For clearer, calmer skin – Here’s an esthetician’s guide on how to select the best moisturizer for oily skin: 

Why Is Your Skin Oily?

Oily skin is essentially characterized by the overproduction of sebum – a natural, oily or waxy substance produced by the sebaceous glands, located near the hair follicles on the skins’surface. 

Hormones and genetics are the key reasons why your skin is naturally oily, producing more sebum compared to Vata or Pitta Dosha skin types. Hot, humid, or a sudden change in environmental conditions also triggers excess sebum production. 

But most importantly, oily skin lacks water – which it then tries to  compensate for, by producing even more sebum to bolster the very important pH skin barrier function. This accumulation of excess sebum blocks pores, and is the primary cause behind acne, blackheads, increased sensitivity along  with a greasy/ shiny appearance. 

Oily Skin and Hydration

It’s worth repeating get – Oily skin ≠ Hydrated skin. Oily skin has excess sebum (prone to acne, greasiness, and dehydration – learn more) while hydrated skin has an adequate amount of water content (looks smooth, plump, and healthy and is less likely to break out). 

Your skin needs a balance of both to maintain a strong barrier, boost radiance, and prevent breakouts. This vital oil + hydration balance is best restored by our 3-step Pore Perfect Regimen – proven to restore healthier skin in 30 days.  

Oily Skin and pH Balance

Healthy skin has a slightly acidic pH (between 4.5 to 5.5). This acid mantle protects your skin from microorganisms and environmental damage. Oily skin tends to be more acidic than this optimum range. A higher production of sebum disrupts the normal functioning of this mantle. This leads to a weaker mantle with a decreased acne/killing healthy microbiome, couplef with irritation, and dryness.  

A formula designed to recalibrate the natural pH balance prevents water loss, inflammation and bacterial growth, especially after using harsh/alkaline products and chemical peels. 

Which Moisturizer is Best for Oily Skin?

When choosing a moisturizer, here are some key points to consider: 

• Lightweight & Non-Comedogenic – These are formulas made of water-based, gel-based and/or lightweight oil-based ingredients that won’t block pores. They feel light and refreshing and are not too heavy on skin. 
• Mattifying – Hydrate while reducing excessive oiliness/ greasiness. 
• Kapha-Specific Ingredients – Some of the best natural ingredients to rebalance oily skin and prevent enlargement of your pores are Aloe Vera, Neem, Peppermint, Salicylic Acid (from White Willow Bark), Solomon’s Seal Root, Green Tea, Bergamot Oil, andVitamin C. 
• Natural Humectants – Natural humectants such as Pure Manuka Honey, Aloe Vera Gel, Hyaluronic Acid, or Jojoba Oil are easily absorbed through the pores. These ingredients draw moisture from the air and lock it to your skin, creating a double-layer of light hydration.  
• Barrier Protection – Synthetic, toxic, and otherwise unsuitable ingredients dehydrate and disrupt this vital oil/ hydration balance by further lowering the acidic pH of the skin. Instead, look for moisturizers that are pH balanced and work in unison with your dosha type. Improving barrier health also accelerates repair and regeneration to combat signs of aging. 
• Complexion Care – Moisturizers with Kojic Acid, Uva ursi, and Licorice root fade the appearance of dark spots/ acne spots/ uneven skin tone, common to oily skin. Vitamin C, Papaya enzyme and other skin brightening actives promote healthy complexion and protect your skin from further damage. 

Moisturizers for Oily Skin from Puraveda Organics

For Oily (Kapha) skin, we recommend the Pore Perfect Regimen, which includes Cleanser and Hydrator/Toner, followed by one of the following moisturizing treatments to be used 2X times a day: 

1. For Skin Under 30 – BioScience Peptide Complex
2. For Skin Over 30 and Advanced Anti-aging/Complexion Care – BioScience + Rejuv Serum

Don’t skip SunProtect SPF 30+ (Daytime) for Oily Skin, which not only adds a layer of balanced hydration but is also sheen-free and treats hyperpigmentation with its DevaBright formulation. 

Further Reading for the Treatment of Oily Skin

• The Benefits of a Lightweight Skincare Formula
• Your Complete Guide to Natural Acne Treatment
• Comedogenic Ingredients that You Should Avoid in Skincare
• The Expert’s Guide to Healthy Skin Microbiome
• Can Your Dosha Change?