Does Diet Cause Oily Skin?

Understanding The Link Between Diet And Oily Skin

Certain types of foods can trigger an increase in sebum production. When these glands produce an excessive amount of sebum, it can result in oily skin. 

Here are some common types of foods that may worsen your oily skin.

High Glycemic Index (GI) Foods

Foods with a high GI — like white bread, sugar, and processed snacks — can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. Elevated sugar levels can cause the skin to produce more sebum, which is often the root of clogged pores and acne breakouts.

Dairy Products

Dairy products, including milk, cheese, and yogurt, are known to contain hormones that can stimulate sebum production. The estrogen and progesterone found in dairy products stimulate sebum production in the skin, leading to oily skin and acne breakouts.

Fried And Greasy Foods

Foods that are high in unhealthy fats — such as fried foods and greasy snacks — are one of the main causes of oily skin. These foods can increase inflammation in the body and trigger sebum production, leading to oily skin.

Manufactured Snacks

Junk foods are often low in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which are important for maintaining healthy skin. A diet lacking in these nutrients often results in poor skin health and could be a cause of oily skin and other skin issues.

Maintaining Healthy Skin

While it’s important to be aware of the types of food, remember that everyone’s skin is different. What may affect one person’s skin may not have the same impact on another’s. However, making healthy dietary choices can still benefit your overall skin health.

Here are some tips to help you maintain healthy, balanced skin.

Eat A Balanced Diet

Incorporate a variety of whole, nutrient-rich foods into your diet. Prepare meals that contain fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. These foods provide sufficient minerals that can support healthy skin.

Stay Hydrated

Drink at least eight glasses of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated and balanced. Water can help flush out toxins from your body and keep your skin looking fresh and radiant.

Limit High GI Foods

Reduce your consumption of high GI foods — such as refined carbohydrates and sugary snacks — to help regulate blood sugar levels and prevent spikes that can trigger sebum production.

Choose Healthy Fats

Opt for healthy fats, such as those found in nuts, seeds, avocados, and fatty fish like salmon, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Healthy fats can help nourish your skin and maintain its natural moisture balance.

Skincare Tips For Men With Oily Skin

Establishing a proper routine is essential for maintaining healthy skin, especially if you have oily skin. Here are some key steps to include in your skincare routine that are specifically tailored for men with oily skin.

Cleansing

Start by cleansing your skin thoroughly with a gentle cleanser that’s specifically formulated for oily skin. Look for products that are oil-free and non-comedogenic, containing ingredients such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide that help control excess oil and unclog pores.

Be sure to cleanse your face twice a day — in the morning and before bedtime — to remove dirt, excess oil, and impurities.

Toning

Follow cleansing with a toner that is alcohol-free and designed for oily skin. Toners can help balance the skin’s pH, tighten pores, and remove any remaining traces of oil or debris. Look for toners that contain witch hazel, tea tree oil, or other astringent ingredients to help control excess oil production.

Exfoliating

Exfoliation removes dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and prevents breakouts. Use a gentle exfoliating scrub or an exfoliating cleanser with salicylic acid or glycolic acid, but avoid harsh scrubbing, as it can irritate the skin. Exfoliate your skin two to three times a week to keep it smooth and clear.

Moisturizing

Even if you have oily skin, moisturizing is important! Look for oil-free, lightweight moisturizers that are non-comedogenic and won’t clog pores. Moisturizers hydrate and nourish the skin, without adding excess oil like our oil controlling mattifying moisturizer. Opt for moisturizers that contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, or aloe vera, which can soothe and calm oily skin. (See About Anti-Shine Lotions And Moisturizers).

Sun Protection

Sunscreen is a must, regardless of your skin type. Look for oil-free, non-greasy sunscreens with at least SPF 30, and apply them generously to all exposed areas of your skin, including your face, neck, and ears. Sunscreen helps protect your skin from harmful UV rays, prevents sun damage, and helps control excess oil production.

Final Thoughts

Oily skin is not a cause for alarm, as long as you take the necessary steps to make it better. Changing your diet one step at a time will help your skin in the long run. At d*shine, we understand the unique skin care needs of men, including those with oily skin. 

Explore more at d*shine to learn more about our products, like our Signature Mattifying Moisturizer For Men, and take the first step towards controlling your oily, shiny-looking skin. 

Related Article: Why Does My Face Get Oily And Shiny When I Drink Alcohol?