How to remove Oily Skin Naturally

Apr 2, 2025

Authored by: Ruchika Chaurasia

Estimated Reading Time: 8 minutes

I have never been satisfied with my own skin due to its oily nature. It has become troublesome for me to find the best suitable product for my skin and that unwanted constant greasy shine. Do you know how it feels when some guest comes over and stays for an extended period with you, and you can’t even do anything about it? I feel exactly the same with my regular acne breakouts.

I was chit-chatting with my mom when this topic boiled my blood, and my aunt came in at the right moment to help me overcome these issues. I am very close to my aunt, Saisha, who is also a well-known dermatologist, so obviously I had to consult her about these things to help me get rid of my worries.

She asked, ‘What do you do when you are hungry? , ‘I treat myself with food,’ I replied.

She then again asked, ‘What do you do when you are thirsty?’ ‘I drink water; what are you trying to explain, Maasi? I asked.

She said, just like how you treat your stomach based on its requirement, you need to do the same with your skin. You need to understand your own skin to find what it likes, what suits it, and what doesn't instead of rushing over things by being harsh on your skin.

“But how do I do that? Explain, na, Maasi.” I pleaded to her.

She then started by explaining to me the basics.

Why do I have oily skin?

Oily skin indicates that your skin produces more oil (sebum) than necessary. Many factors can contribute to this, including stress, hormone swings, weather, and genetic inheritance.

It originally affects the T-zone, which involves the forehead, nose, and chin. You might also see the constant greasy look of your face, blackheads, and enlarged pores, due to which there are high chances of acne breakouts.

There are many myths that oily skin does not require moisturiser, but like any other skin type, it also requires appropriate moisture. Washing your face too regularly does not help; instead, it might remove your skin of its natural oil, causing increased oil production.

I will share with you some natural ways to cleanse your oily skin rather than using harsh products on your skin.

lady is trying to remove excess oil from her skin by a cotton pad

Natural ways to cleanse your oily skin

Say goodbye to harsh chemicals, which are of no use for your own good. We are going to dive into some natural and authentic methods to help you cleanse your skin properly.

1. Honey: Apart from being a lovely gift from nature, it is quite helpful for treating skin conditions. Antiseptic and antibacterial qualities of honey are quite helpful for oily skin. It maintains the skin's moisture without giving that greasy look. Simply apply a thin layer of raw honey to your face, leave it on for 10-15 minutes, and then wash it off with warm water.

2. Healing Clay: It is preferably known as cosmetic clay, which helps in absorbing oil from skin and treating skin issues. It works better than peeling off masks, as clay masks are washed off gently with water. You can try the popular French green clay, which comes in powder form. Add rose water and mix it well with the clay. Apply it on your, leave it for few min and wash it off with warm water after it dries.

3. Oatmeal: It will help in soothing irritated skin. By adding yogurt, honey, and mashed fruits such as bananas, apples, or papaya, you can make face masks as well. You will need ½ cup of ground oats to mix with hot water. Put in 1 spoon of honey and mix them well. Apply the mixture and keep it for 3 minutes before rinsing with warm water.

4. Aloe vera: Aloe vera has been an all-time favorite in skincare routines. It works best in calming any kind of burns and treating flaky skin caused by oily patches. It’s very simple to use; you will need to apply it on your face before bedtime and sleep with it.

tomatoes and sugar bowl is on white table

5. Tomatoes: It is not only limited to making chutneys but also to treating your skin problems. Tomatoes contain salicylic acid, which helps in absorbing excess oil. Mix 1 tbsp of sugar with 1 tbsp of tomato pulp and apply it in a circular motion on your face. Wash with warm water after leaving it for 5-10 minutes.

Natural toners to refresh your skin

Just like rice water toner is famous for giving that glowy, hydrated look to the skin, there are many natural toners available that are proven to soothe your oily skin.

1. Rose water: You must have seen your mom using it when you were young. It's because it helps in keeping the skin hydrated. It helps in balancing skin’s pH, reduces oiliness, and calms redness.

2. Witch Hazel: Well, you must have heard of this name, as it comes under one of the popular toners. It's very well known in the market because of its astringent properties. It helps reduce inflammation and excess oil from the skin.

3. Apple cider vinegar: It is generally used in salad dressings, but it is also proven to have health benefits. It helps in limiting the production of oil. You must dilute it with water and always use a smaller amount of ACV and more water before applying it to the skin, as it can be very strong and can irritate sensitive skin.

4. Cucumber Juice: It has cooling properties and also hydrates the skin. It acts as a natural antioxidant, which can reduce inflammation.

Your skin must be moisturised and hydrated

I told you in the beginning that many people believe that oily skin doesn’t require moisturizer, but it is false. Just like other people apply moisturizer, sunscreens, and lotions, people with oily skin also need to do the same, but why?

Let’s understand that : -

1. Prevent overproduction of oil: We already know that if our skin is dried up, then it will automatically produce sebum to cover up for that. You must keep your skin properly hydrated so that oil production can be balanced well.

2. Avoiding Dryness: Many people with oily skin don't regularly apply moisturizers, thinking it will make their face more greasy, but it can lead to dryness. It will ultimately cause irritation, acne breakouts, and more.

3. Both hydration and moisturization are essential: Well, both of these go hand in hand as when one occurs, then second starts. Hydration means putting water on the skin, whereas moisturizing means locking in the water. Both are very beneficial for oily skin if the right products are used.

Proper Lifestyle

Well, you must be wondering how changing your habits can help in controlling oil production. But it can be proven very effective if you stay consistent for a long time period.

1. Skincare Routine: Always wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser. Apply toner in order to help control oil production. Remove makeup before sleeping and use moisturizers as well.

2. Stay Hydrated: Make sure to keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.

3. Avoid touching your face: Don’t touch your face with your hand frequently, especially if they are not clean. It will transfer the dirt and germs from hands to face, so avoid doing it.

4. Balanced Diet: Avoid sugar intake and also refined carbs, as they contribute to oil production. Eat healthy food such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, etc.

different types of skin type has been shown on face

Do’s and Don’ts of Oily Skin

When dealing with oily skin on a daily basis, even a slight change in your habits can make a big difference. Let me explain some points regarding this.

DO’S—What you should be doing?

1. Cleanse twice a day with a gentle, oil-free cleanser in order to get rid of all the germs and bacteria from the face.

2. Drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated. Provide the body what it needs.

3. Apply sunscreen, moisturizers, and lotions to your skin to lock in the moisturizer.

4. Manage stress, as stress can influence oil production, so you can do yoga, meditation, etc.

DON’TS—What you shouldn’t be doing?

1. Don’t touch your face too often to avoid the transfer of germs.

2. Always use lightweight, oil-free moisturizers and not heavy, chemical-based products.

3. Don’t sleep with makeup and clean it properly, followed by moisturizer or toner.

4. Don’t overwash your face, as it can strip your skin of its natural oil.

Summary

“Why didn’t you visit us before, Maasi? I didn’t know there could be a lot behind such things. I said to my aunt.

“Now you know, my dear, and I will be happy to see you following these practices in your daily routine, as they can be very effective.” My aunt said,.

“Yes, for sure. There’s no doubt about that. Thank you so much, Maasi, for being a lifesaver.” I replied.

Recommended Products by Blue Nectar:

Plum Oil-Free Face Serum for Acne Marks (8 herbs, 30ml)

Shubhr Bakuchi Oil Free Face Serum | Natural Retinol Alternative for Youthful Skin (30 ml)

Women's Grape Seed Oil Free Moisturizer and Cream with Plant Based Vitamin C for Acne Prone Skin (19 herbs, 50g)

Shubhr Kojic Acid Serum for Pigmentation and Dark Spots with Rice Water and Mushroom(13 herbs, 30ml)

Related Articles:

I have an oily Skin. What kind of beauty products are recommended for me?

7 Foods to eat and 7 foods to avoid to manage Oily Skin

How does Summer affect your Oily Skin?

References:

https://www.starhealth.in/blog/manage-oily-skin-during-summer