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Warning-sign checks

Oily skin: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services if you develop swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat, or have trouble breathing.

    These are signs of a possible severe allergic reaction, not typical oily skin.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek same-day medical care if an area becomes painful, hot, swollen, or rapidly more red, especially if you have a fever or feel unwell.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • has a wound that is hot, spreading red, or leaking pus
  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Book a routine appointment if the oiliness starts suddenly, remains difficult to manage, or is affecting your confidence or daily life.

    You should also arrange an assessment if you have acne that is painful, leaving scars, or not improving with suitable non-prescription care.

    Routine medical advice is also appropriate if oiliness occurs with:

    • Irregular or absent periods
    • New coarse facial or body hair
    • Scalp hair thinning
    • Greasy, itchy scaling that keeps returning
    • A change that began after starting a medicine

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • has noticed a lump, a mole that has changed, or unexplained weight loss

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Oily skin. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.