How to Cure Oily Skin

Co-authored by Diana Yerkes

Last Updated: November 2, 2022 References Approved

Although the oil on our skin helps protect it and fight signs of aging, many people suffer from an excess of oil. We often picture teenagers having this problem, but it can affect people of all ages and cause blemishes, pimples, and other problems. There are a variety of treatments you can do at home and under a doctor's supervision to help fight an excess of oil on your face.

Method 1

Method 1 of 4:

Treating Oily Skin with Home Remedies

1
Apply aloe vera to your face. The aloe vera plant has many therapeutic properties, including treating burns, cuts, and infections. It is also effective on oily skin and acne.
- Cut an aloe leaf in half and squeeze out the gel.
- Apply the gel evenly over your face.
- Allow the gel to dry. After it dries, rinse it off with cool water.
- This can be repeated two or three times a day.
2
Apply yogurt to your face. Yogurt helps open up pores, exfoliate the skin, and absorb excess oil.
- Take one tablespoon of plain yogurt and spread it evenly over your face.
- Leave the yogurt on for 15 minutes, then rinse off with cold water.
- Repeat once a day.
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3
Rub cucumbers on your face. Cucumbers are often applied during facials and spa treatments because of their soothing properties. They contain vitamins and minerals that can help fight swelling, redness, and excess oil.
- Slice up a fresh cucumber and rub the slices on your face.
- Leave this on your face overnight, rinsing with warm water in the morning.
- Repeat daily.

Method 2

Method 2 of 4:

Avoiding Triggers

1
Avoid harsh soaps and creams. Any products containing alcohol or other harsh chemicals can irritate your face. This irritation could lead to more oil production and make the problem worse.
2
Avoid over-washing your face. Though you may think that the more you wash your face the better, this is not the case. Like with harsh chemicals, excessive washing will lead to irritation and can make your symptoms worse. You should wash your face no more than two times daily.
3
Stop using heavy cosmetics. These products can clog your pores, which will trap oil and dirt in the skin and make acne symptoms worse.
4
Change any towels or pads you use on your face every day. Oil, dirt, and bacteria get trapped on these products and you can then spread them all over your face.

Method 3

Method 3 of 4:

Treating Oily Skin with Topical Products

1
Use a gentle facial cleanser twice a day. Most dermatologists agree that cleansing the skin is the best way to reduce oil.^{[1]
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Research source} Make sure to use a gentle, pH balanced cleanser rather than regular soap. Most soaps are highly alkaline and strip the natural acid mantle from the skin leaving it vulnerable to bacteria.
- Products containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or beta-hydroxy acid are often considered best. These are slightly acidic, however, so start off with only a small amount to make sure your skin doesn't have an adverse reaction.
- When washing your face, make sure you use warm water, not hot. Hot water can further irritate the skin.^{[2]
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2
Use a toner free of alcohol or acetone. Place a few drops on a clean, natural cotton pad and wipe it gently over the affected area. Toners can be harsh on skin, so dermatologists often recommend only using them on oily parts of your face rather than the whole face.^{[3]
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3
Moisturize your skin. While it may seem counterproductive, oil and moisture are two different things. Even oily skin can be dehydrated and requires moisturizer to stay healthy. Make sure to use a light, oil-free moisturizer.^{[4]
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4
Use blotting papers. This is a quick, effective solution to soak up excess oil. They won't cut down on your skin's oil production though, so this treatment should be paired with a cleansing regimen for the best results.
- Make sure you don't rub your skin with blotting papers. This can spread dirt and cause irritation. Instead, just gently press the paper down on your skin and hold it there for 15 to 20 seconds.^{[5]
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5
Use a clay mask. Masks help draw out dirt and oil, keeping pores clean. These products can also dry out the skin, however, so make sure you don't overuse them. Once a week should be the maximum usage.^{[6]
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6
Apply an oil-free, mineral powder makeup base for the daytime. Use powder blush rather than cream blush and powder eye shadows rather than cream eye shadows. A dusting of a translucent powder can be applied two or three times during the day after blotting the face with a tissue to remove any excess oil.

Method 4

Method 4 of 4:

Treating Oily Skin Medically

1
Visit your dermatologist. OTC treatments may not work for everyone, and you might need something stronger. Talk to your dermatologist and explain your symptoms and what you've already tried. She can then recommend a variety of other treatments for you.
2
Use prescription-strength topical treatments. If OTC topicals aren't helping your oily skin, stronger treatments are available by prescription. These creams usually contain tretinoin, adapalene, or tazarotene, and work by shrinking pores and reducing oil production.^{[7]
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- Be sure to follow all instructions when using prescription creams. Used improperly, they can further irritate your skin.
3
Try a laser treatment. Lasers can be used to shrink pores and reduce oil production.^{[8]
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4
Take Accutane. This is a prescription oral medication. It works by shrinking the oil glands, cutting the production of sebum. It is most often prescribed to treat serious acne that does not respond to other treatments.^{[9]
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5
Try a chemical peel. With this treatment, a chemical is applied to the face that removes the top layer of skin. It is used to treat wrinkles, sun damage, and some forms of acne.^{[10]
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Expert Q&A

Question

What's the best treatment for oily skin?

Diana Yerkes
Skincare Professional
Diana Yerkes is a Skincare Professional and the Lead Esthetician at Rescue Spa in New York City, New York. With over 15 years of experience, Diana helps others with their skin care needs by incorporating natural and high-performing products and treatments into their routines while providing nutrition insights and educating clients on better skin care habits. Diana is a member of the Associated Skin Care Professionals (ASCP) and holds certifications from the Wellness for Cancer and Look Good Feel Better programs. She received her esthetics education from the Aveda Institute, the International Dermal Institute, and the Biologique Research Academy.

Diana Yerkes

Skincare Professional

Expert Answer

Look for a water-based moisturizer that contains hyaluronic acid, which is great for oily skin. When you skip moisturizer, your skin actually overcompensates and produces more oil.
Question

Is cream cleanser good for oily skin?

Megan16

Community Answer

Cream cleanser usually leaves an oily residue that is nourishing for dry skin, but may worsen oily skin. Facial wash may be a better choice.
Question

What should I use for my oily skin?

Community Answer

Revolution's Oil Control Spray is effective and affordable.

Warnings

Don't try to remove all the oil from your face. The oil is there to protect the skin. Stripping it all away can damage your skin and even cause signs of premature aging.

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Helpful 3 Not Helpful 0
Make sure you investigate any products or treatments before putting them on your face. Everyone's skin is different, and what works for someone may irritate someone else.

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Helpful 5 Not Helpful 1
Carefully follow instructions for topical treatments. Many products are effective in the right dosage, but harmful if applied too much.

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