Some people want to make their skin glow, while others are trying to get rid of that shine. But what does it mean when your skin is shiny?
Understanding what causes your skin to look shiny is key to managing it, whether you want more shine or less.
This article will explore the ins and outs of skin shine — from a healthy glow to unwanted oiliness — and what you can do about it.
Skin types and their inherent shine
Not everyone’s skin is the same. Some people have oily skin, some have dry, and some have a combination of oily and dry. Still others have what’s considered “normal” skin.
Each skin type is different, and each produces sebum at a different rate. Sebum is an oily substance that helps moisturize and protect your skin and gives it a healthy glow.
All skin types reflect light, but because of its higher sebum production, oily skin tends to be shinier than dry skin.
The sebum combines with acids and bacteria to form a protective layer on your skin called the acid mantle. This layer is key to healthy skin.
When Shiny Skin is Good
Let’s be clear: not all shiny skin is bad. A “healthy shine” or “glow” usually means your skin is well-hydrated and healthy. Healthy skin naturally reflects light, and that reflection is a sign of good hydration and cell turnover.
A healthy skin barrier is also important for a natural glow. When your skin barrier is working well, it reflects light evenly, creating a radiant appearance.
If your skin is dry, hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin can help boost its glow.
When shiny skin is a bad sign
There’s a fine line between a healthy glow and an oily shine. If your face looks slick, it could be a sign that something’s off, such as an overproduction of sebum.
What causes excessive shine?
- Stress. When you’re stressed, your hormones can get out of whack, which can lead to oily skin.
- Over-exfoliation. Exfoliating too much can strip away your skin’s natural oils, which causes your skin to produce even more oil to compensate.
- A compromised skin barrier. Damage to your skin’s outer layer can lead to dehydration and tightness, which results in a reflective sheen on your face.
If your skin is shiny and you’re experiencing breakouts or redness, it’s a sign that something’s amiss. It’s a good idea to talk with a dermatologist or other skin care professional about what to do.
How to reduce too much shine or oily skin
If you’re dealing with a case of the shines, there are a few things you can do to bring your skin back into balance.
Skincare routine adjustments
- Try switching to a gentle cleanser that will remove oil without stripping your skin completely. Oil cleansers can be surprisingly effective at removing excess oil.
- Consider adding a clay mask to your weekly routine. Used once to three times per week, clay masks can help absorb excess oil.
- Stay away from products that make your skin feel tight. That tight feeling is a sign that your skin has been stripped of the essential oils that keep it healthy.
Practical tips for managing shine
- Keep blotting papers handy for a quick and easy way to absorb excess oil throughout the day.
- Try double cleansing. A double cleanse involves using an oil cleanser followed by an acid-based cleanser for a deeper pore cleaning.
Rebuilding Your Barrier: The Path to a True Glow
It’s important to remember that shine isn’t just an oil problem. Usually, it’s a sign that your skin barrier isn’t working as it should. To fix the shine, you need to fix the barrier.
That means being gentle with your skin. Focus on cleansing gently, hydrating, and replenishing the lipids in your skin.
Try a skincare ritual that includes a gentle cleanser, a hydrating toner like Gaea’s Gala Toner, a serum like Cryo-C Glow Serum, and a rich cream like D.B.T. Baba Yaga Cream. These products will help to nurture your skin back to health.
How to Get Shiny Skin
If you want your skin to look shiny, here are some tips:
- Hydration is key. Use hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin.
- Exfoliate. Regular exfoliation (1-3 times per week) with acids like lactic or glycolic promotes skin renewal and radiance.
- Use skin-hydrating oils. Incorporate oils like marula, argan, and jojoba into your routine.
Wrapping Up
Whether you want to reduce or enhance the shine on your face, understanding your skin and addressing any underlying issues is key. Gentle cleansing, hydration, and skin barrier repair are crucial for a balanced, healthy glow.
Ultimately, the goal is to create a radiant complexion that reflects how good you feel.