Your skin’s oil glands produce sebum to protect your skin and keep it moisturized, but when they overproduce sebum (a waxy substance), it can leave your face greasy. Luckily, there are many things you can do to get rid of oily face and reduce its impact on your beauty routine.
The first step is to identify your basic skin type and build a skincare routine that will suit it best. This can help you avoid products that are too harsh on your skin and irritate it, says dermatologist Kavita Mariwalla, MD.
Washing Your Face Regularly and Using Oil-Free Cleansers
It’s important to wash your face at least twice a day. The more you cleanse, the more your pores will be cleared of excess sebum and clogged oil. Choose a gentle, non-comedogenic, and alcohol-free cleanser that rinses off easily.
Exfoliating Your Face Frequently and Gently
Exfoliating your face regularly helps clear your pores and prevents breakouts by removing dead skin cells from your face. It also helps keep your pores free from dirt and other pollutants, which can clog pores. The best way to do this is to use a gently exfoliating scrub that contains oil-free, natural ingredients.
Honey Masks
Using a honey mask once or twice a week can reduce the amount of excess sebum your skin produces and help it look smoother, according to the Mayo Clinic. You can buy raw honey in the store or make your own by combining equal parts of fresh, unfiltered honey and water. Apply the mixture to your face and let it sit for 10 to 20 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with warm water.
Clay Masks
Cosmetic clays are used for a variety of skin ailments and can help absorb oil in the pores. French green clay, for example, is a popular treatment for oily and acne-prone skin since it is highly absorbent.
While you can purchase commercial clay masks, DIY recipes are easy and inexpensive. To create a clay mask at home, combine a teaspoon of powdered French green clay with filtered water or rose water to form a pudding-like mixture. Add your favorite pore-clearing essential oils like geranium, lavender, or tea tree to the clay for extra moisture and calming benefits.
Aloe Vera Massage Cream
The gel from an aloe vera plant is a great moisturizer for oily skin. It can also soothe irritation and relieve dry patches. The gel can be applied to your entire face or just your T-zone for more targeted treatment.
Konjac Sponge for Exfoliation
A natural, biodegradable sponge made from the fibers of a yam-like vegetable is a great option for exfoliating your face without causing any damage to the skin. It’s also completely compostable when you’re done with it, and the best part is that it doesn’t leave any trace of residue behind on your skin.
Toner for Oily Face
Toners are a great way to help remove impurities and help your skin feel refreshed, but you should be careful not to overuse them or else your skin will overproduce oil. Instead of alcohol-based toners, try using witch hazel or jojoba oil, which is a non-comedogenic oil that won’t clog your pores. You can also add a few drops of vitamin E to your toner to further hydrate and rejuvenate your skin.
