In Hong Kong, acne has always been a headache for those with oily skin. Today, I would like to delve into the phenomenon of oil-water imbalance and whether we should improve acne conditions by supplementing oils.
First, we need to understand the concept of “oil-water imbalance.” Many people believe that an insufficient secretion of oil by the sebaceous glands leads to acne, which is why some recommend using various oil-containing products for relief. However, in reality, this approach often exacerbates the problem. The oil secreted by the sebaceous glands, academically referred to as “sebum,” consists of three main components: triglycerides, wax esters, and squalene, each playing an important role in skin health.
Research shows that the composition of sebum in acne-prone skin tends to decrease, particularly the proportion of linoleic acid, which is a precursor to wax esters. Many products claim to replenish linoleic acid to help restore the skin’s oil balance. However, this theory is quite complex, as when any one component is too high or too low, the overall balance is affected.
For example, if you are using an oil with a high proportion of linoleic acid, these extra components might lead to new imbalances. We need to understand that an excess of oils or fatty acids can be counterproductive and worsen acne. Moreover, compared to the active ingredients claimed, many products contain only carriers or irritating oils. This same caution should be applied when considering ingredients such as ceramides, as many products on the market contain only trace amounts of effective ingredients, while the remaining components might exacerbate skin issues.
For oily skin, truly effective treatments include topical and oral retinoids, rather than simply relying on oil products. In fact, certain antibiotics or low concentrations of benzoyl peroxide (BPO), when used appropriately, can effectively reduce inflammation and improve skin condition.
As for the notion of “oil-water imbalance,” I personally do not agree with it. If you feel your face is oily yet still experiences dryness, it may be due to a damaged or dry stratum corneum. To address this issue, appropriate use of hydrating serums to enhance the moisture level of the skin barrier may yield surprising results.
Lastly, I want to emphasize that the formation of acne is closely related to our diet. A deficiency in essential fatty acids can be adjusted through diet. Increasing your intake of foods rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6, such as fish and fish oil, or using oils like sunflower oil and grape seed oil, can provide systemic benefits, not just targeting the face.
In summary, skin care for oily skin should not rely on oil supplementation but should address the root cause by improving dietary structure and choosing the right skin care products. This approach can effectively treat acne and restore skin health.