How To Reduce Oil From Face?
Tackle oily skin with practical tips to reduce shine and excess oil. Learn about effective cleansing, moisturizing, makeup choices, and lifestyle adjustments for a balanced complexion.
Written by
Last updated on 3rd Jul, 2025
Main Article
Excessive oil on the face can be frustrating, leading to a shiny complexion, clogged pores, and frequent breakouts. If you're struggling with oily skin, don’t worry—you're not alone! Many people face this issue, and the good news is that there are simple and effective ways to manage it.
In this article, we’ll discuss why your skin produces excess oil, how to control it, and tips to keep your face fresh and balanced.
Why Does My Face Get Oily?
Our skin naturally produces oil (sebum) to keep it hydrated and protected. However, when the sebaceous glands produce too much oil, it can lead to:
- Shiny skin
- Clogged pores
- Blackheads and whiteheads
- Acne breakouts
Common Causes of Oily Skin:
The common causes of oily skin are as follows:
- Genetics: A family history of oily skin can make you more prone to it.
- Hormonal changes: Fluctuations during puberty, pregnancy, or stress can stimulate increased oil production.
- Humid weather: Hot and humid environments can exacerbate oiliness on the skin.
- Harsh skincare products: Using harsh cleansers or alcohol-based products can strip the skin's natural oils, leading to a rebound in oil production.
- Diet: A diet high in fried or sugary foods may contribute to increased facial oil.
Consult Top Doctors for Personalised Care
How to Reduce Oil from Your Face Naturally
The ways to reduce oil from your face naturally include:
1. Wash Your Face Twice a Day: Use a gentle, oil-free cleanser with ingredients like salicylic acid or tea tree oil, and avoid harsh soaps and hot water to prevent stripping natural moisture.
2. Use a Toner: Apply a witch hazel or rose water toner with a cotton pad after cleansing to help remove excess oil without overdrying your skin.
3. Moisturize (Yes, Really!): Use a lightweight, oil-free, noncomedogenic moisturizer, such as a gel-based formula, to hydrate oily skin and prevent it from overproducing oil.
4. Blotting Papers for Quick Fixes: Keep blotting papers readily available to absorb excess oil throughout the day without disturbing your makeup.
5. Exfoliate Gently (1-2 Times a Week): Use a chemical exfoliant like AHAs or BHAs to remove dead skin cells, and avoid harsh physical scrubs that can irritate the skin and increase oiliness.
6. Use Oil-Free Sunscreen: Protect your skin from sun exposure, which can increase oil production, by using a matte-finish, oil-free sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
7. Avoid Touching Your Face: Minimize the transfer of dirt and bacteria from your hands to your face, which can contribute to breakouts and increased oil production.
8. Try Home Remedies: Consider using aloe vera gel to soothe skin and control oil, applying a honey mask for its natural antibacterial properties, or using clay masks (bentonite or kaolin) once a week to absorb excess oil.
Diet and Lifestyle Changes to Control Oily Skin
What you eat affects your skin! Here’s how to adjust your diet:
- Drink plenty of water: Proper hydration contributes to balanced oil production.
- Eat more fruits and vegetables: Focus on those rich in vitamins A, C, and E, such as carrots, spinach, and citrus fruits.
- Include omega-3 fatty acids: Incorporate sources like fish, nuts, and flaxseeds to help regulate oil levels.
- Reduce dairy and sugar: Limiting these can help prevent excess oil and acne breakouts.
- Avoid fried and processed foods: These types of foods can exacerbate oily skin.
When to See a Dermatologist?
If oily skin leads to severe acne, redness, or irritation, consult a dermatologist. They may recommend:
- Prescription-strength treatments: These can include topical retinoids or oral medications to help regulate oil production and address acne.
- Professional facials or peels: These treatments are performed by skincare professionals to deeply cleanse the skin, control oil, and unclog pores.
If you need expert advice, you can book a dermatologist consultation on Apollo 24|7 for personalized skincare solutions.
Final Tips for LongTerm Oil Control
The final tips for long-term oil control are stated as follows:
- Stick to a consistent skincare routine.
- Choose makeup labeled "noncomedogenic" or "oil-free."
- Sleep on a clean pillowcase (change it weekly).
- Manage stress – Yoga and meditation help balance hormones.
Conclusion
Oily skin can be managed with the right skincare habits, diet, and lifestyle changes. Remember, your skin needs balance—not complete oil removal. Be patient, stay consistent, and your skin will thank you! If you need further help, Apollo 24|7 offers expert dermatologist consultations to guide you toward healthier, oilfree skin.
Consult Top Dermatologists
Consult Top Dermatologists
Dr. Hemalatha Naidu M
Dermatologist
5 Years • MBBS, MD (Dermatology)
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
(275+ Patients)
Dr Ritika Shanmugam
Dermatologist
9 Years • MBBS, MD (Dermatology, venereology, Leprosy)
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
Dr Usha B K
Dermatologist
4 Years • MBBS,MD (Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy), DNB (Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy), Fellowship in Trichology
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
(50+ Patients)
Dr. Mayuri Jain
Dermatologist
11 Years • MBBS, MD Dermatology , Venereology & Leprosy
Delhi
Dr Mayuri Jain Clinic, Delhi
Dr. Kavitha Killaparthy
Dermatologist
23 Years • MBBS,DIPLOMA(DERMATOLOGY,VENEREOLOGY,LEPROSY)
Hyderabad
JDS Skin & Hair Clinic, Hyderabad
Consult Top Doctors for Personalised Care
Dr. Hemalatha Naidu M
Dermatologist
5 Years • MBBS, MD (Dermatology)
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
(275+ Patients)
Dr Ritika Shanmugam
Dermatologist
9 Years • MBBS, MD (Dermatology, venereology, Leprosy)
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
Dr Usha B K
Dermatologist
4 Years • MBBS,MD (Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy), DNB (Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy), Fellowship in Trichology
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
(50+ Patients)
Dr. Mayuri Jain
Dermatologist
11 Years • MBBS, MD Dermatology , Venereology & Leprosy
Delhi
Dr Mayuri Jain Clinic, Delhi
Dr. Kavitha Killaparthy
Dermatologist
23 Years • MBBS,DIPLOMA(DERMATOLOGY,VENEREOLOGY,LEPROSY)
Hyderabad
JDS Skin & Hair Clinic, Hyderabad
