Oily skin can be frustrating, especially when it leads to acne, enlarged pores, or a greasy shine by midday. While genetics play a role, you can train your skin to be less oily naturally by adjusting your skincare routine, diet, and lifestyle. Here’s how you can achieve a balanced, healthy complexion without harsh chemicals or drying treatments.
1. Cleanse Gently but Effectively
Many people with oily skin tend to over-wash their faces, stripping the skin of natural oils. This can cause your skin to produce even more oil to compensate.
✔ Use a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser twice a day (morning and night).
✔ Look for ingredients like green tea, aloe vera, or honey, which cleanse without over-drying.
✔ Avoid harsh scrubs that can irritate and trigger excess oil production.
💡 Tip: Wash your face with lukewarm water instead of hot water, which can stimulate oil production.
2. Balance Your Skin with a Natural Toner
Toners help regulate sebum production and tighten pores without causing dryness.
✔ Apple cider vinegar (diluted with water) acts as a natural astringent.
✔ Witch hazel helps control oil and reduces inflammation.
✔ Rose water hydrates while keeping excess oil at bay.
💡 Tip: Apply toner with a cotton pad or spray bottle for a refreshing touch throughout the day.
3. Hydrate with Lightweight Moisturizers
Skipping moisturizer can make your skin produce more oil to compensate for the lack of hydration. Instead, opt for oil-free and lightweight moisturizers that nourish without clogging pores.
✔ Aloe vera gel is soothing and lightweight.
✔ Jojoba oil mimics natural sebum, helping regulate oil production.
✔ Hyaluronic acid provides hydration without heaviness.
💡 Tip: Avoid heavy creams and stick to gel-based or water-based moisturizers.
4. Use Natural Oil-Absorbing Ingredients
Nature provides excellent oil-controlling ingredients that can be used in masks and treatments:
✔ Clay masks (bentonite or kaolin clay) absorb excess oil and detoxify pores.
✔ Oatmeal masks soothe and balance oil production.
✔ Egg whites tighten pores and reduce shine.
💡 Tip: Use a clay mask once or twice a week to keep oiliness under control.
5. Adjust Your Diet for Balanced Skin
What you eat affects your skin’s oil production. Eating too much processed food, sugar, and dairy can contribute to excess oil and breakouts.
✔ Increase omega-3 fatty acids (found in salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds) to reduce inflammation.
✔ Stay hydrated with at least 8 glasses of water daily.
✔ Limit dairy and sugar intake, as they can trigger sebum production.
✔ Eat plenty of leafy greens and antioxidant-rich foods like berries, which help regulate oil balance.
💡 Tip: Drinking green tea can help reduce oil production due to its natural anti-inflammatory properties.
6. Avoid Over-Touching Your Face
Your hands carry bacteria and dirt, which can make your skin oilier and cause breakouts.
✔ Keep your hands away from your face throughout the day.
✔ Clean your phone screen regularly to avoid transferring oil and bacteria.
✔ Use oil-absorbing sheets or blotting papers instead of rubbing your face.
💡 Tip: If your skin gets oily during the day, use a tissue or blotting paper instead of powder, which can clog pores.
7. Give Your Skin Time to Adjust
If you’re switching to a more natural skincare routine, your skin might take a few weeks to rebalance. Avoid changing products too frequently, as this can confuse your skin and trigger more oil production.
✔ Stick to a consistent routine for at least 4-6 weeks.
✔ Don’t over-exfoliate—1-2 times a week is enough.
✔ Let your skin breathe—avoid heavy makeup whenever possible.
💡 Tip: Use mineral makeup instead of oil-based foundations to reduce shine naturally.
Final Thoughts
Training your skin to be less oily naturally takes time and consistency, but with the right approach, you can achieve a balanced, healthy glow without harsh chemicals. Focus on gentle cleansing, hydrating properly, using natural oil-absorbing treatments, and maintaining a healthy diet.
✨ Your skin will thank you for the extra care! Try incorporating these habits, and over time, you’ll notice less oiliness, fewer breakouts, and a more refreshed complexion. 😊