Understanding the sensation of sticky skin
The sensation of sticky skin is not always related to excessive sweating, although it is one of the main factors. This persistent feeling of dampness can also come from skin imbalances, poorly absorbed cosmetic products, or an inappropriate skincare routine for your skin type.
Indeed, the skin has a natural hydrolipidic film, a mixture of sebum and water that protects the epidermis. When this film is unbalanced (too rich or poorly regulated), the skin can become oily, suffocated, and produce a sticky effect. This phenomenon is even more pronounced in cases of heat, ambient humidity, or in people with combination to oily skin.
What are the possible causes of sticky skin?
Cause #1: excessive sweating
Heat, physical exertion, stress, or certain conditions (such as hyperhidrosis) can cause increased sweating. This sweat, accumulating on the skin's surface, leaves a moist film which, if it dries poorly or remains trapped under clothing, gives this sensation of sticky skin.
Cause #2: oily or combination skin
Oily skin naturally produces more sebum. If this sebum accumulates on the surface, especially at the end of the day or in hot and humid environments, it gives an appearance of shiny, sticky skin. This phenomenon is often worsened by the use of overly occlusive or poorly adapted cosmetics.
Cause #3: inappropriate skincare
Some cosmetic products, even moisturizing or nourishing ones, can leave a greasy film on the surface, especially if they are not properly absorbed, if they are comedogenic, or if they are overdosed. This is particularly true for too rich textures on skin that does not need them, or when too many products are layered.
Cause #4: insufficient cleansing
Poorly performed skin cleansing (too quick, with a product that is too mild or conversely too harsh) can leave residues on the surface (sebum, pollution, makeup, cream), which contributes to this feeling of heaviness or sticky skin.
Cause #5: imbalance of the skin microbiota
The skin is inhabited by a natural bacterial flora. In case of imbalance (pollution, stress, excessive antibacterial products), this flora can change, leading to overproduction of sebum, altered sweating, or a lasting feeling of discomfort.
How to avoid sticky skin? 5 good habits
Good habit #1: adopt appropriate cleansing
Good cleansing is the first step to avoid this sensation of sticky skin. You should cleanse the skin morning and evening with a gentle, non-stripping product adapted to your skin type.
The goal is to remove excess sebum, impurities, and residues of care or pollution without damaging the skin barrier. The Grangettes Switzerland purifying gel is a major pillar here: it cleanses, gently exfoliates, and hydrates the skin to reveal a bright and fresh complexion!
- Regular price
- CHF 36.00
- Regular price
- Sale price
- CHF 36.00
- Unit price
- per
Good habit #2: choose moisturizing and regulating care
Moisturizing your skin is essential, even if it feels sticky. But you must choose the right products. Favor light textures: hydrating gels, oil-free emulsions, creams, and serums based on hyaluronic acid. Avoid greasy creams or oils if your skin is not dry.
Always apply your care on clean skin, in small amounts, and let it absorb well by gently massaging before adding another product.
Moreover, if your skin is sticky due to excess sebum, include a regulating care based on niacinamide or white clay in your routine... These active ingredients help control shine without drying out.
The Grangettes soothing cream will surely take care of your skin. It contains powerful moisturizing actives like hyaluronic acid, but also vitamin B12, known for its sebum-regulating properties, and ectoine, which helps you fight pollution. To avoid sticky skin, it’s a real plus!
- Regular price
- CHF 35.00
- Regular price
- Sale price
- CHF 35.00
- Unit price
- per
A mattifying care can also be useful during the day to keep skin fresh, especially in summer.
Good habit #3: adapt your routine to the season
In summer or hot weather, your skin does not have the same needs as in winter. It naturally secretes more sweat and sebum. So lighten your summer beauty routine: limit layers of care, avoid occlusive textures, and prefer refreshing and hydrating formulas.
Mists based on thermal water or plants can also be your allies to refresh the skin without suffocating it.
Good habit #4: wear breathable clothing
Sometimes, the skin sticks not because of skincare but because of synthetic clothing, too tight, or not breathable. Prefer natural materials like cotton, linen, or silk, especially if you sweat easily. These fabrics allow the skin to breathe and limit friction that increases discomfort.
Mistakes to avoid
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Skipping hydration: just because your skin is sticky doesn’t mean it doesn’t need hydration. You just need to choose the right textures;
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Over-cleansing: cleansing too often or too abrasively can unbalance the skin and worsen the problem;
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Layering too many skincare products: serum, cream, oil, foundation... Too much layering suffocates the skin;
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Using comedogenic or unsuitable products for your skin type: a care product that is too rich on oily skin creates a guaranteed sticky effect. Favor products that let your skin breathe, and non-comedogenic.
