Oily skin vs glass skin: what's the difference?

Is the shine oil or hydration?

Sebum normally lubricates skin and hair, so the aim is not to remove every trace of it. During puberty, hormone changes can increase oil production, leaving skin greasy and sometimes blocking pores. That is a reason to manage oil gently, not a reason to treat your face as dirty.14

How should you care for oily skin?

A routine can be basic and inexpensive, even when the look you want has a luxury material in its name. Start with cleansing, moisturizing and sun protection instead of buying a separate product for every description of glow.13

1. 1Wash when you wake up and before bed, and after an activity that makes you sweat. Use a mild, fragrance free cleanser. Apply it gently with your fingertips, rinse with warm water and pat dry with a clean towel.
2. 2Apply moisturizer after washing. A gel moisturizer suits oily or acne prone skin; a lighter lotion suits combination skin. Choose a fragrance free formula labeled noncomedogenic, meaning designed not to clog pores.
3. 3Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day. For skin prone to breakouts, look for sunscreen labeled noncomedogenic or "won't clog pores."
4. 4Remove makeup before bed. Prefer water based, noncomedogenic skincare and makeup rather than oil based products.

Should you skip moisturizer if you already look shiny?

No. Moisturizer helps hold water in the skin, and gel formulas are an option even if you tend to break out. Moisturizer keeps skin hydrated; making it sound like a window is optional. If acne prone skin feels dry, use a moisturizer made for it twice daily after washing, rather than trying to dry it further.235

What should you avoid while chasing a glow?

Do not scrub, use rubbing alcohol or astringents, or repeatedly wash away every return of shine. These habits can irritate skin and worsen breakouts. Acne is not a sign that you have failed to clean your face. Fragrance can also cause irritation and dryness, so choose fragrance free products, especially if your skin is sensitive. If a routine causes a flare, cut back on products to help identify the culprit. Persistent irritation despite simplifying the routine needs a dermatologist's attention.23

What if the shine comes with breakouts?

Treat breakouts as acne, not as a failure to achieve a particular finish. Use acne treatments as directed rather than switching products every week. Allow 6 to 8 weeks for some improvement; complete clearing generally takes 3 to 4 months. Those timings are for acne treatment, not a deadline for achieving "glass skin."2

A pharmacist can advise on a few blackheads, whiteheads or spots. See a doctor for widespread or painful acne, cysts, or breakouts that have not improved with pharmacy treatments. Avoid squeezing spots, which can worsen acne and cause scarring.1