How to Treat Oily Skin Naturally, According to Dermatologists
Shiny skin might look great under a ring light, but if your face starts feeling greasy by midday, you probably know the downsides of oily skin all too well. From clogged pores and blackheads to a never-ending battle with makeup that won’t stay put, excess oil production can be frustrating to deal with. The good news? With the right natural skincare routine, oily skin can be balanced—without relying on harsh chemicals or complicated treatments.
According to dermatologists, there are several effective, science-backed ways to treat oily skin using gentle, natural ingredients. You just need to know which ones to look for—and how to incorporate them into your routine in a way that supports your skin barrier rather than stripping it.
To help you figure out the best natural options for your skin type, we spoke to couple dermatologists and tested dozens of remedies and products. Ahead, we break down everything you need to know about treating oily skin naturally—from daily habits to ingredient recommendations and DIY treatments that actually work.
What Causes Oily Skin?
Before jumping into natural treatments, it’s important to understand why your skin gets oily in the first place.
“Oily skin occurs when the sebaceous glands produce too much sebum, the skin’s natural oil,” explains board-certified dermatologist Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD. “This can be influenced by genetics, hormones, stress, diet, and even the products you use.”
While oil is essential for maintaining skin hydration and protecting against environmental damage, too much can lead to clogged pores, acne, and a persistently greasy feeling. Over-washing or using overly drying products can also make things worse, as your skin may compensate by producing even more oil.
How to Naturally Treat Oily Skin
1. Use a Gentle, Natural Cleanser Twice a Day
Washing your face regularly helps remove excess oil, dirt, and bacteria—but over-cleansing can backfire. “It’s best to use a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser with natural ingredients like green tea, aloe vera, or chamomile,” says Dr. Garshick. These plant-based extracts help calm inflammation and regulate oil production without stripping the skin.
2. Avoid Alcohol-Based Toners
It might be tempting to reach for an astringent toner when your face feels oily, but experts warn against it. “Alcohol-based toners may offer temporary relief, but they often lead to more oil production over time,” says Dr. Hadley King, MD, FAAD.
Instead, opt for a natural toner made with witch hazel (alcohol-free), rose water, or green tea extract. These ingredients help tighten pores and balance oil without over-drying
3. Use Clay Masks Once or Twice a Week
Natural clay masks are one of the most effective ways to absorb excess oil and detox the skin. “Look for kaolin clay or bentonite clay,” says Dr. King. “These draw out impurities from the pores and help regulate sebum without irritating the skin.”
DIY tip: Mix bentonite clay with apple cider vinegar or rose water for a natural at-home mask. Leave on for 10–15 minutes and rinse with warm water.
4. Hydrate With Lightweight, Natural Moisturizers
Yes, oily skin still needs moisturizer. “Skipping moisturizer can actually make oiliness worse,” explains Dr. Noreen Galaria, MD, FAAD. “When your skin feels dry, it may go into overdrive producing oil to compensate.”
The key is choosing the right type. Look for non-comedogenic moisturizers made with ingredients like:
Aloe vera
Hyaluronic acid (plant-derived)
Jojoba oil (mimics skin’s natural sebum)
Green tea extract
5. Exfoliate with Natural Acids or Enzymes
Exfoliating 1–2 times per week helps remove dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores. Instead of using harsh scrubs, opt for natural chemical exfoliants like:
Salicylic acid from willow bark
Lactic acid from fermented fruits or dairy
Papaya or pineapple enzymes
“These help gently dissolve oil and buildup without creating microtears on the skin,” says Dr. Garshick.
6. Use Blotting Papers or Rice Paper During the Day
If you need a quick oil fix without disrupting your skincare, natural blotting papers are your best friend. “Rice paper sheets or green tea-infused blotting papers are excellent for reducing shine without adding residue or stripping the skin,” says Dr. King.
Keep a pack in your bag and use them throughout the day, especially on your T-zone.
7. Tea Tree Oil for Targeted Treatment
Tea tree oil has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great option for spot-treating breakouts caused by excess oil. “Just be sure to dilute it with a carrier oil like jojoba or aloe gel,” notes Dr. Galaria.
Apply to blemishes using a cotton swab, and always do a patch test before trying it on larger areas.
8. Balance Your Diet for Better Skin Health
Believe it or not, what you eat can affect how oily your skin feels. While there’s no universal “acne diet,” dermatologists agree that reducing sugar and processed foods can help.
“High-glycemic foods may increase oil production by influencing hormone levels,” says Dr. King. Try incorporating more of these skin-friendly options:
Leafy greens
Omega-3 rich foods like flaxseed or chia
Antioxidant-rich berries
Probiotic-rich yogurt or kefir
Hydration also matters. Drinking plenty of water helps regulate sebum production and flush out toxins.
9. Be Careful with DIY Remedies
While natural treatments can be effective, not all DIY trends are skin-safe. “Avoid using lemon juice, baking soda, or undiluted apple cider vinegar directly on the skin,” warns Dr. Garshick. These can alter your skin’s pH and cause irritation.
Stick with dermatologist-approved ingredients and always test new treatments on a small patch before applying to your whole face.
10. Stick to a Consistent Routine
Natural skincare isn’t about overnight fixes—it’s about consistency. “The skin needs time to adjust to any new routine,” says Dr. Galaria. “Give your products 4–6 weeks before judging whether they’re working.”
Consistency helps your skin find its natural balance, and gentle routines reduce the chance of over-stimulating oil glands.
What to Avoid If You Have Oily Skin
Even the best natural treatments can be undone by using the wrong products or habits. If you’re managing oily skin, here’s what to steer clear of:
Heavy, occlusive creams (like petroleum or mineral oil)
Comedogenic oils (like coconut oil on the face)
Harsh physical exfoliants (especially walnut scrubs)
Over-washing (more than twice a day)
Touching your face frequently
Final Thoughts
Managing oily skin doesn’t mean you need to wage war on your face. With the right balance of gentle, natural ingredients and consistent care, you can reduce shine, prevent breakouts, and keep your skin feeling fresh all day long. And the best part? Many of the most effective remedies are already in your kitchen or local health store.
Start with a simple natural routine, stay hydrated, and give your skin a little grace—it knows how to heal when given the chance.
Can oily skin be cured completely?
Oily skin is often genetic, so it can’t be “cured”—but it can be managed effectively with the right skincare and lifestyle habits.
Should I use oil on oily skin?
Surprisingly, yes! Lightweight, non-comedogenic oils like jojoba can actually help balance sebum production.
Is natural skincare safe for sensitive skin?
It depends on the ingredient. Always patch test, and avoid common irritants like citrus oils, undiluted essential oils, and raw vinegar.