Acne is something that many of us face, but it’s undoubtedly one of the most unwelcome guests on our skin. And while it’s a common skin woe, it’s impact on our self-confidence is anything but trivial. There are many contributory factors: hormonal changes, diet, stress and good old genetics to name but a few. And of course, it’s widely known that oil-based skincare products can cause or worsen acne. However, fewer people know that oily hair care products can trigger those dreaded flare-ups too. In particular, hair oil and acne can often walk hand in hand. Here’s the lowdown.
What Is Acne?
Acne occurs when hair follicles and pores become clogged with oils and dead skin cells. When this happens, inflammation occurs, leading to acne. There are several types of acne, from blackheads and whiteheads, to pimples and large and painful nodules and cysts.
Hair Oil And Acne
The practice of hair oiling goes back to ancient times; particularly the Middle East and South Asia where oils were integral to rituals and holistic medicine. The practice has continued into modern times and has spread worldwide. Today, hair oils are used to moisturise the hair and scalp, to reduce frizz and boost shine, and to protect hair from damage. They are a staple in many hair care regimes, but the benefits come with downsides. And one of these is that hair oil can cause acne.
The Problems With Hair Oil And Acne: Scalp Acne
Hair oils can really plug up the pores in our scalp. And before we know it, scalp acne rears its head. Scalp acne can be painful, unsightly and very difficult to shift, especially for people who tend to have greasier hair and skin. What’s more, left untreated, scalp acne can damage the hair follicles themselves, leading to weakened strands, and ultimately, hair loss.
As Samantha Stewart, Consultant Trichologist and Hair Gain Ambassador, revealed:
“Many things can cause our pores to become clogged and if you are prone to breakouts, you would be more susceptible to this if you use oil-based hair and skin topicals. Breakouts begin with clogged pores, this is caused when your pores fill up with excess oil, dead skin cells and debris. If you add an oil-based product to your regime you have the perfect environment for a breakout.”
Pomade Acne
Unfortunately, the skin problems associated with hair oils don’t end with the scalp. When hair oils encounter your face, particularly around the hairline, they again cause breakouts. There’s even a name for this hair oil and acne complication: pomade acne. And it’s a common issue, as Samantha Stewart told us:
“Using an oil-based hair topical will always run the risk of the oil being transferred to your forehead which could cause your pores to become clogged. Some oils are also more pore-clogging than others and this can cause a breakout even if you are not prone to suffering from acne.”
Hair Oil and Body Acne
Hair oil can also give rise to body acne. When we sleep, as we toss and turn, the oils transfer from our tresses to the pillowcase. And from there, to the skin on our faces, shoulders, chest and back. Again, it’s a recipe for breakouts and flare-ups, particularly for those of us who are susceptible to body acne.
Given the problems of hair oil and acne, while hair oils can benefit your hair, they’re often not a good choice for your skin. So, what’s the alternative?
Switching From Oil-based To Water-Based Products
To manage or even better, prevent acne, water-based hair products are far more effective than their oil-based counterparts. They’re typically formulated to be non-comedogenic – in other words, they don’t clog your pores and follicles! They’re lighter, and easily absorbed by the skin and scalp. Oily products can leave a greasy layer that acts like a magnet for bacteria, dirt and all manner of grime, further increasing the risk of acne. Water-based products let the skin breathe, avoiding build-up that can trigger issues.
Out With Hair Oil, In With Foam
If you’re looking for a product that nourishes and hydrates the scalp, promotes thicker, fuller hair, while significantly reducing the risk of acne, then you should be looking for a water-based alternative to hair oil. Samantha Stewart advocates switching to a hair growth foam:
“The benefits of using a water-based hair and scalp foam instead of a hair oil or serum is that there is no chance of it clogging your pores.”
Hair Gain Scalp Foam
Say goodbye to hair oil and acne and say hello to Hair Gain Scalp Foam.
Samantha says:
“I'd recommend the Hair Gain Scalp Foam. It's a water-based leave in treatment formulated with hair care actives to help stimulate hair growth and reduce hair shed and breakage, while hydrating and nourishing the scalp. It absorbs quickly and there is no greasy or sticky residue. Plus, you don't have to wash it out the next morning as you do with oils and serums.”
Composed of a blend of natural ingredients like biotin and caffeine, and powered by the unique AnaGain™ ingredient, Hair Gain Scalp Foam’s lightweight formula is easily applied to wet or dry hair, being absorbed instantly while penetrating deeply into the scalp and hair cortex. Hydration, nourishment and thicker, fuller hair, all while minimising the risk of breakouts!
Look After Your Locks Inside And Out
It’s not just our scalp foam that’s backed by leading trichologists like Samantha Stewart. So are the rest of our incredible range of topicals and supplements! Hair Gain Hair Capsules and Hair Gummies, starring AnaGain™ and packed with a supporting cast of key hair vitamins and minerals, help prevent hair loss while promoting growth. And our amazing Hair Gain Hair Mask, the next-generation Peptide Puff™ dry shampoo, and our awesome Scalp Foam, will keep your locks looking wonderful from the outside.
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