By Shahnaz Husain
In oily skins, the oil-producing glands are over active. The constant oozing of oil on to the skin surface enlarges and thickens the pores, which can get clogged with hardened oil. That is why oily skins are prone to clogged pores, blackheads, spots, pimples and acne. This can happen even in winter.
Cleansing is very important to prevent clogged pores, especially since oily skins attract more impurities. Use a cleanser, which is specially formulated for normal to oily skins. A cleansing lotion or face wash may be used.
An astringent lotion is also an integral part of cleansing of oily skin, as it not only reduces oiliness, but also shrinks the pores. After washing the face, wipe it with astringent lotion, using cotton wool. Or, use a rose-based skin tonic. For oily skins, rose water can also be mixed with cucumber juice in equal quantities to cleanse and close the pores.
Exfoliation is an important aspect in the cleansing of oily skins to cleanse the pores. This involves the use of scrubs, which should be rubbed gently on the skin and washed off with water. They help to remove dead skin cells, refining the pores and keeping them free of hardened oil. You can make a scrub at home by mixing oats with rose water and applying it on the face. Rub gently with circular movements and wash off with water. This not only helps to prevent blackheads, but also to close the pores gradually.
A Vitamin C serum would help an oily skin and prevent clogged pores. Vitamin C is rich in antioxidants, keeping the skin healthy, while serums are light and normally water-based and are thus ideal for oily skin. Orange peels are a rich source of Vitamin C. In fact, the peels are said to contain more Vitamin C than the fruit itself. Dried and powdered orange peels can be used in scrubs and masks, to absorb oil and tighten the pores. Grind fresh orange peels into a paste. Add oats and rose water and apply the pack on the face to benefit minimize pores and even blemishes.
Diet is important. Keep the system cleansed by including fresh fruits, raw salads, sprouts, whole grains and yogurt in your daily diet. Drink 6 to 8 glasses of water daily. Add the juice of a lemon to a glass of tepid water and have it first thing in the morning.
About Shahnaz Husain
Shahnaz Husain, pioneer of the Ayurvedic beauty movement, heads the Shahnaz Husain Group, with a global network of franchise ventures and 375 Ayurvedic formulations. A Case Study at Harvard for Brand Creation, she is now a Harvard Subject for “Emerging Markets” She was honored with the Padma Shri Award and is the first woman in 105 years to receive the World’s Greatest Woman Entrepreneur Award from Success, the U.S. business magazine. Indeed, Shahnaz Husain is a leading international beauty icon.’
