What Causes Oily Skin? Understanding the Root of Excess Shine
If your skin always feels slick by midday or your forehead seems to shine no matter what you do, you’re not alone. Oily skin is one of the most common skin concerns, but it’s also one of the most misunderstood.
To manage it well, the first step is understanding why your skin is producing that extra oil in the first place. So let’s break it down.
What Is Oily Skin?
Oily skin is a skin type defined by an overproduction of sebum—the natural oil your skin makes to stay soft and hydrated. Sebum is important. It helps protect your skin’s surface and keeps moisture in. But when your skin makes more oil than it needs, that’s when it starts to feel greasy, look shiny, and feel more prone to clogged pores.
What Causes Oily Skin?
There’s no single answer to what causes oily skin—but there are several common factors that might be contributing.
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Genetics - Some people are simply born with more active oil glands. If one or both of your parents have oily skin, chances are higher that you will too.
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Hormones - Hormonal shifts—especially those tied to puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or stress—can ramp up oil production. This is one reason oily skin often shows up during teenage years and can return during major life stages.
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Over-cleansing or Harsh Products - It sounds backwards, but washing your face too often—or using strong cleansers that strip your skin—can actually make your skin produce more oil to try to rebalance itself.
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Climate - Hot, humid weather tends to increase oil production. If you notice your skin getting oilier during the summer or in warm climates, this may be part of the cause.
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Diet and Stress - Foods high in sugar and refined carbs, as well as ongoing stress, may influence how much oil your body produces. While these don’t directly cause oily skin, they can make it worse for some people.
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Using the Wrong Skincare - Heavy creams, silicone-based primers, or ingredients that clog pores can trap oil on the surface, making your skin feel slick and congested. And skipping moisturizer altogether can signal your skin to create more oil to compensate.
Is It Really Oily Skin?
Sometimes, what looks like oily skin is actually dehydrated skin trying to protect itself. If your skin is oily but also feels tight or flaky in places, it may be producing excess oil to make up for a lack of water. That’s why balance—hydration and moisture—is key.
Understanding the root of your oily skin is the first step in caring for it. Whether it’s tied to hormones, habits, or just your natural skin type, knowing the cause helps you choose the right products and routines. With the right support, oily skin can feel refreshed, clear, and more in balance—even on the hottest days.
