For those with oily and combination skin, an oily T-zone might seem like a lifelong companion. While there is no miracle remedy for keeping shine away from the T-shaped area that makes up the forehead and nose, a consistent skincare routine and vigilance while choosing skincare products can go a long way in balancing the oiliness. In the quest for expert-approved advice on reducing shine in this area, we went to renowned dermatologist Dr Harshna Bijlani, and here’s what we learned:
Follow this expert-approved skincare routine for managing an oily T-zone
The journey to a balanced T-zone that is free from unwanted shine starts by adopting vigilance in your everyday skincare regime. Dr Bijlani shares her best skincare tips for creating a routine that can control oil production in your T-zone while also keeping your skin healthy and hydrated.
1. Cleanser: Start with a gentle cleanser that’s formulated for oily skin. Look for hero ingredients like salicylic or glycolic acid to help unclog pores and take care of excess oil. Ensure that you are massaging the cleanser into your T-zone for a few additional seconds to thoroughly cleanse these grease-prone areas.
Tira Recommends: CosIQ FC-1 Basic Face Cleanser For Oily Skin followed by Lacto Calamine Face Lotion For Oil Balance Oily Skin
2. Serum: After cleansing the skin sufficiently to remove any remnants of makeup and other impurities, apply a lightweight serum that’s designed to address oily skin concerns such as enlarged pores or excess oil production. Active ingredients like niacinamide, vitamin C or alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) that help brighten and even out your skin tone while controlling oil production can be your best allies.
3. Treatment: If you have acne or breakouts on your T-zone, use a targeted treatment such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Apply as a spot treatment to clear up blemishes on the affected areas only, as these ingredients can be drying if used all over the face.
4. Moisturiser: Having oily skin does not afford you a hall pass from moisturising your skin to keep it hydrated and healthy. Look for a lightweight, oil-free moisturiser that won’t clog pores or leave your skin feeling greasy.
Tira Recommends: Pilgrim Tea Tree Light Non Oily Moisturizer and ClayCo Tsubaki + Matcha Moisturiser with Vitamin C For Oily Skin
5. Sunscreen: Lastly, be sure to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays by using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Look for a product that’s formulated for oily skin and apply liberally to your T-zone and the rest of your face. Remember to reapply every 2-3 hours, especially when out and about.
Skincare ingredients to use on an oily T-zone—and which ones to avoid
In the quest for a non-greasy T-zone, it helps to look for ingredients that can regulate oil production while avoiding those that can further clog the skin. When shopping, look for salicylic acid, lactic acid and niacinamide that work towards penetrating and unclogging pores, exfoliating dead skin cells, reducing inflammation and regulating oil production. Tea tree oil also works as a natural anti-inflammatory agent, while clay can help absorb excess oil and draw out impurities from the skin.
On the other hand, those with an oily T-zone will want to avoid products that contain heavy oils, such as coconut oil or cocoa butter, as these can clog pores and cause breakouts. Certain alcohols can also strip the skin of its natural oils, thereby triggering the overproduction of oil in compensation. Harsh physical exfoliants are also best avoided as they can be too abrasive and damage the skin’s barrier. Instead, look for gentle chemical exfoliants, such as AHAs or BHAs.
Follow these expert hacks for balancing an oily T-zone
As a rule of thumb, Dr Bijlani recommends stashing some blotting papers in your handbag as an easy way to absorb excess oil and shine throughout the day without having to wash your face. “A weekly clay mask session on the T-zone can also work wonders for absorbing excess oil and drawing out impurities. As always, drinking plenty of water can help oily skin stay hydrated and flush out toxins to keep the skin looking healthy and balanced,” she signs off.
Follow Dr Bijlani at The Ageless Clinic for more skincare inspiration!
