5 Ways to Control Excess Sebum on Your Face

Some guys have overactive oil-producing glands, which leads to pools of excess sebum on the face. This slick substance has various functions, from maintaining hydration to protecting against irritants. However, too much of it can be annoying to deal with, especially if it comes with the added frustration of frequent breakouts.

Although genetics and hormones are the main drivers of sebum production, there are things you can do to get a handle on your greasy mug. Here’s a guide on how to control oily skin, minus the stress.

Your mission is to get rid of that layer of excess sebum on your face without dehydrating your skin. The first step to achieve this is avoiding harsh cleansers. Instead, make sure to use a targeted cleanser with ingredients specifically formulated for targeting oily skin.

Reach for Dove Men+Care Deep Clean Body + Face, which can remove deep-seated dirt trapped inside the pores. It contains purifying grains and a unique formula for a thorough cleanse without leaving your skin tight and dry. If your skin is also prone to acne, try Dove Men+Care Body, Face & Hair Wash Clean Comfort. Its MICROMOISTURE technology helps rebuild, strengthen, and nourish your skin barrier.

The American Academy of Dermatology Association advises washing the face twice daily – once in the morning and again before sleep. You may need to up the ante to three times daily on particularly sweaty days or when you work out.

Toning is an overlooked step in many skincare routines for oily skin, but it’s worth pairing with your favorite cleanser. Modern toners are water-based, so they can help bring balance to the skin without causing irritation. More than that, they contain active ingredients tailored to exfoliate, hydrate, or brighten complexion – sometimes all three at once.

Consider grabbing a toner with niacinamide, which can provide an extra boost of moisture and minimize the appearance of large pores. AHAs and BHAs such as lactic and glycolic acids can also help tone down greasiness. These exfoliating acids mop up sebum buildup on the face by breaking down dead skin cells and unclogging pores.

When the skin lacks moisture, it compensates by releasing more sebum. In other words, your skin could feel dry even if it looks greasy.

Dehydration is not the same as dryness, though. Dehydrated skin is not flaky, but it has a dull appearance, shows more fine lines, and feels rough and tight. If you tick off more than one of these boxes, it’s your cue to add an oil-free moisturizer to your post-cleansing ritual.

You may want to snag a moisturizer with a mattifying finish for daytime use. This will help actively counter shine when you’re out and about. For nighttime, look for a lightweight moisturizer with a “non-comedogenic” label on it.

Managing oily skin can be tough if you’re the type to absentmindedly touch your face throughout the day. While it may seem like a harmless habit, doing so can spread dirt, oils, and bacteria from your fingers to your face. Make a conscious effort to keep your hands busy and away from your mug. Play with a fidget toy, fold laundry, or find another way to distract yourself. If you must touch your face for any reason, wash your hands first.

Another tip to minimize sebum on your face is to keep your hair out of the way. Hair can trap oils and stick to your skin, triggering forehead pimples. If you have long hair, tie it back into a ponytail or man bun. Also, wash it regularly to cut down on the greasiness.

Drinking an ice-cold rum and coke after a long week soothes the soul in all the right ways. However, your body processes alcohol like it does sugar, which prompts the immune system to release inflammatory molecules. This inflammation triggers your sebaceous glands into producing more sebum.  

Alcohol is also a diuretic, meaning that it flushes water out of your system and can cause dehydration. That’s why your skin looks oddly puffy, red, and oily after a night of drinking. Don’t worry – you can still enjoy your booze occasionally if you’re not ready to give it up. Just remember that the less you drink, the less the damage to your skin.

The extra sebum on your face won’t go away if you keep working against it. So, turn your back on excessively drying products and follow the tips mentioned above to help your skin stay shine-free all day.