12 Home Remedies To Treat Oily Skin

Oily skin is one of the most common skin types, characterised by an overproduction of sebum, the natural oil produced by the skin’s sebaceous glands. Sebum is essential for keeping the skin moisturised and protecting its natural barrier, but excessive oil production can make the face appear shiny, greasy and uneven. People with oily skin may also be more prone to clogged pores, blackheads, whiteheads and acne, particularly around the forehead, nose and chin.

Several factors can contribute to oily skin, including genetics, hormonal changes, stress, hot and humid weather, certain skincare products and an overly harsh cleansing routine. While it is not possible to completely stop the skin from producing oil, following a gentle skincare routine and using suitable natural ingredients may help manage excess oil and keep the skin looking fresh.

Simple home remedies such as aloe vera, oatmeal, Multani mitti, cucumber and green tea can be incorporated into a skincare routine when tolerated. However, it is important to avoid harsh ingredients that strip or irritate the skin. The key to managing oily skin is to balance oil control with adequate hydration rather than trying to remove all the natural oils from the skin.

1. Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera is a lightweight ingredient that can help soothe irritated skin without the heavy feel of an oil-based moisturizer.

How to use it:

Take a small amount of plain, fragrance-free aloe vera gel.
Apply a thin layer to clean skin.
Leave it on for 10–15 minutes if using it as a mask, then rinse.
Alternatively, use a suitable aloe-based moisturizer as part of your routine.

How often: 2–3 times a week.

Tip: Choose a product with minimal added fragrance and ingredients. Patch-test first.

2. Multani Mitti Face Pack

Multani mitti (Fuller's earth) is traditionally used to absorb excess oil and provide a temporary mattifying effect.

How to use it:

Take 1–2 tablespoons of Multani mitti.
Add plain water or rose water to make a smooth paste.
Apply a thin layer to the face.
Leave it on for around 5–10 minutes.
Rinse before the mask becomes completely dry and tight.

How often: Once a week.

Important: If your skin becomes tight, flaky or irritated afterward, discontinue it. Clay masks are not suitable for everyone, particularly people with very dry or sensitive skin.

3. Oatmeal Face Mask

Finely ground oatmeal can gently cleanse and soothe the skin. It may be a better choice than abrasive scrubs for people who want a mild homemade mask.

How to use it:

Grind plain oats into a fine powder.
Mix 1 tablespoon of oat powder with enough water to form a soft paste.
Apply it gently to the face.
Leave for 10–15 minutes.
Rinse with lukewarm water without rubbing.

How often: 1–2 times a week.

Avoid scrubbing the skin aggressively because friction can cause irritation.

4. Honey Mask

Honey has moisturizing properties and can be used as a simple short-contact mask. It may be preferable to harsh DIY ingredients that strip the skin.

How to use it:

Apply a very thin layer of plain honey to clean skin.
Leave it for about 10 minutes.
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
Follow with a lightweight moisturizer.

How often: Once or twice a week.

Do a patch test first, particularly if you have sensitive skin.

5. Green Tea Compress

Green tea contains polyphenols and has antioxidant properties. A cooled green-tea compress can be a gentle addition to an oily-skin routine.

How to use it:

Brew plain green tea and allow it to cool completely.
Soak a clean cotton pad or soft cloth in the cooled tea.
Gently apply it to the face.
Leave for several minutes and rinse if your skin feels sticky or irritated.

How often: A few times a week.

Don't use hot tea on your face.

6. Cucumber for a Cooling Mask

Cucumber has a high water content and can provide a cooling, refreshing sensation.

How to use it:

Blend a small amount of fresh cucumber.
Apply the pulp or juice to clean skin.
Leave it on for 10–15 minutes.
Rinse with cool or lukewarm water.

This can refresh oily skin, although it shouldn't be considered a treatment for excessive sebum production.

7. Use a Gentle Face Wash

One of the most important "home remedies" for oily skin is actually a simple cleansing routine.

Wash your face gently twice a day with a mild cleanser. Avoid repeatedly washing your face throughout the day because excessive cleansing can cause dryness and irritation.

After cleansing, use a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer.

8. Don't Skip Moisturizer

A common mistake is avoiding moisturizer because the skin is oily. Your skin still needs hydration.

Look for:

Lightweight gel or lotion textures
Non-comedogenic formulas
Fragrance-free options if your skin is sensitive

Apply moisturizer after cleansing, especially if your skin feels tight.

9. Use Sunscreen Every Day

Sunscreen is essential even when your skin is oily. Choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic sunscreen that feels comfortable on your skin.

A matte or gel-type sunscreen may be easier to tolerate if traditional creamy sunscreens make your face feel greasy.

10. Use Blotting Paper Instead of Constantly Washing

If your face becomes shiny during the day, blotting papers can temporarily absorb surface oil without repeatedly stripping the skin.

How to use:

Press the paper gently against oily areas.
Don't rub it across your face.
Concentrate on the forehead, nose and chin if those areas become particularly oily.

11. Keep Your Pillowcases and Towels Clean

Oil, sweat, hair products and skincare residue can accumulate on fabrics that regularly touch your face.

Change pillowcases regularly and use a clean face towel. Avoid repeatedly rubbing your face with the same towel.

12. Choose Your Hair Products Carefully

Hair oils, heavy conditioners, styling creams and other products can transfer onto the forehead and sides of the face.

If you notice oiliness or breakouts around your hairline:

Keep heavy hair products away from your face.
Wash your face after using oily hair products.
Keep hair off your face when sleeping.