Will My Oily Skin Age Better?

I remember my dermatologist saying, “Why are you bothered by your oily skin? It actually ages better than any other type.” At that time, I wasn’t sure about the science behind it, but I thought the belief stemmed from the idea that oily skin results in more moisturized skin.

So, does oily skin really age better?

Yes, oily skin can be thicker and less prone to dehydration, leading to fewer fine lines as you age. Also, having oily skin means a high concentration of fatty acids, which could offer protective effects against UV damage (Not enough to forego SPF).

However, this isn’t always the case. Oily skin can sometimes lead to deeper lines and wrinkles as you get older. That’s why it’s crucial for women with oily skin to use moisturizers daily to preserve the skin’s natural moisture. Skipping moisturizer can cause your skin to overproduce oil, making it appear even oilier.

The best moisturizer for oily skin is something light and oil-free. For added protection, choose a moisturizer with sunscreen.

The Bottom Line

Neither dry nor oily skin ages better than the other. Each skin type has its own benefits. Dry skin, for instance, has smaller pores but deals with dull, flaky skin that has a crinkly appearance. According to experts, the only type that tends to age most healthily is normal or combination skin.

That said, it is important to know that your skin type isn’t the only factor that affects aging. There are many other factors that can impact how your skin age including metabolism, genetics, stress, diet, exercise, and pollution. So it is crucial to treat your body and skin right to allow both to “mature” as gracefully as possible.