Amidst Singapore’s balmy climate, one skin concern is bound to arise: excess sebum. Not only does oil production go into overdrive, make-up also melts and the excess grease exacerbates it. This is where oil blotting products come in; skincare for reigning in grease by either mattifying shine from sebum, physically removing it, or both. In the collective psyche of beauty connoisseurs, blotting papers appear when they hear the word. Today’s blotting offerings go beyond, with blotting powders, cushions, and even special ingredients for slowing down oil production.
Considering Singapore’s heat, it’s not hard to understand their ubiquity. However, their true benefits are also something to consider. To investigate the boons and banes of oil blotting products—and if they’re a beneficial addition to a beauty arsenal, Vogue Singapore consults Dr. Angeline Yong, dermatologist & dermatologic surgeon at Angeline Yong Dermatology and Dr. Stephanie Ho, consultant dermatologist at Stephanie Ho Dermatology for the facts.
The benefits of blotting products
In situations where a full face or touch-up are impractical, such as tight schedules or constant travel, blotting products provide efficient fixes, a sentiment both dermatologists echo. “They’re compact and convenient for on-the-go touch-ups, especially in humid conditions,” explains Dr. Yong.
For those with oily skin, where humidity can exacerbate greasiness and in turn, affect make-up’s longevity, blotting products provide a solution for this issue. Dr. Yong chimes in. “Generally, oil blotting products can be useful at keeping unwanted shine off the face for oilier skin,” she notes.
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The drawbacks of blotting products
However, both note their effects are temporary, and they don’t address the root causes of excess sebum, such as, according to Dr. Ho, “hormones or skincare imbalances.” She also adds, “Overuse can strip the skin of natural oils, potentially triggering more oil production.”
“Some may contain ingredients that irritate skin,” Dr. Yong says. She also notes, “Some, like blotting powders, don’t actually absorb oil, but may sit on top of the skin to mattify it—potentially trapping excess oil with bacteria and leading to more congestion—giving rise to exacerbated acne.”
To blot or not to blot
Nonetheless, both agree with careful usage and a robust skincare regime in place, they can be useful. “Used sparingly and as part of a balanced skincare routine, they can be helpful, but excessive use may lead to skin disruptions.” Dr. Ho notes.
“It’s essential to combine oil blotting products with proper skincare practices and treatments recommended by your dermatologist for more effective and sustainable management of oily skin,” advises Dr. Yong. She also adds another precaution; “I would be cautious with oil blotting products that utilise sponges and other applicators that are meant to be reused.” She goes on to suggest, “Keep them clean, or there could be potential bacterial contamination and clogged pores.”
Below, sample Vogue Singapore’s curation of blotting products, for your perusal.
