Hyaluronic acid (HA) is an excellent ingredient for oily skin because it acts as a humectant, drawing moisture into the skin without adding oil or heaviness. It provides hydration without clogging pores, making it suitable for oily skin. If you have OSPW skin and are acne-prone, be cautious when using HA alongside retinoids or benzoyl peroxide. HA can increase the absorption of these treatments, potentially leading to increased side effects like irritation or dryness.

Humectants are essential for oily skin care because they draw moisture into the skin without adding excess oil. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin are popular humectants that hydrate the skin while keeping it lightweight and breathable. For those with OSPW skin who are acne-prone and use retinoids or benzoyl peroxide, it's important to know that humectants can increase the absorption of these active ingredients, which might lead to heightened sensitivity or irritation.

Unless you experience facial redness and stinging, retinoids like retinol and tretinoin are excellent for your OSPW Skin Type 7. Retinoids offer multiple benefits: they clear clogged pores, block melanin production to reduce hyperpigmentation, exfoliate the skin, treat acne, and serve as powerful anti-aging ingredients. They also help lower enzymes like collagenase, which break down collagen and contribute to aging, making retinoids a key component in maintaining youthful, healthy skin. When beginning a retinoid, use it over your OSPW friendly moisturizer.

If you have an OSPW skin type, it's best to avoid a high concentration of saturated fatty acids like stearic and palmitic acid. While moisturizers can contain some of these ingredients, you don't want them to dominate the formula. High levels of these fatty acids can stimulate tyrosinase, an enzyme that increases melanin production, potentially worsening hyperpigmentation.