For many, a light dusting of powder may do the trick. However, some individuals-both male and female-may experience an over-production of sebum, which gives the skin an unwanted, slick appearance. Help For Oily Skin "Just let me powder my nose." As a woman, chances are you've repeated this phrase at least once. The amount of oil a person's skin contains is under genetic and hormonal control.

Skin is a natural producer of oil, or sebum. Though what we consume-especially water-can affect skin's appearance, there is little evidence connecting greasy food to oily skin. For others, intensive skin care regimens are required to keep oil at a minimum. The natural oil in skin can work its way to the surface and create a "shiny" appearance. Some skin care experts are proponents of special "oily-skin diets," high in consumption of fresh, whole foods, with lower intake of sugar, fat and preservatives.

But, since such diets would be of benefit to most everyone, regardless of skin type, that hypothesis is difficult to test.

Most experts agree that gentle cleansing of the skin several times daily is the preferred treatment for oily. Sebum is beneficial, as it protects the skin from over-drying, regulates water content, and balances skin pH.

It is not, as once believed, brought on or aggravated by various foods.