What Are the Different Home Remedies for Oily Skin?

Using home remedies for oily skin can help keep the shine in check without costing a fortune. Home remedies are non-medical treatments that are readily available in most households or as close as the local market or drug store. Home remedies for oily skin include witch hazel extract, soap and hot water, clay and mud masks, and oat meal scrubs.

Natural oils produced in the sebaceous glands keep skin healthy and lubricated. Without these oils, skin becomes dry and cracked, leading to damage and possible infection. While some oil is beneficial, too much is not. Oily skin is most commonly attributed to genetics, but other causes such as age and hormonal changes can also contribute.

Witch hazel was a staple in the old-fashioned medicine cabinet. This natural home remedy is derived from the bark and branches of the witch hazel tree of North America. Witch hazel is a natural astringent that washes away oils to leave the skin feeling fresh and clean. Astringents gently cut through oils on the skin's surface while tightening pores and improving skin condition. A little witch hazel also disinfects minor cuts and eases rashes and acne.

One also can consider old-fashioned soap and hot water when looking for home remedies for oily skin. Hot water is better than cool water, as it helps to dissolve oils on the skin's surface. Adding a little soap to the the hot water creates a natural home remedy that cuts through oils. Some people with oily skin also have sensitive skin that is prone to break out when exposed to harsh chemicals. Using natural soaps that are free of preservatives can help keep this skin type healthy and clean.

Other home remedies for oily skin include clay masks. Many traditional medicine cabinets had a supply of clay for treating infection and drawing out splinters. Clay also draws oils out of the skin. It is prepared by mixing it with water and applying it to the face and body. After it dries for 10 to 20 minutes, absorbing oils from the skin's surface, it can be washed off.

When looking for home remedies for oily skin, the kitchen cabinet may prove helpful as well. Oatmeal can be soothing, and it also absorbs oil and helps remove dead skin cells. The oats should be combined with water and cooked for a few minutes. Once they are cool, the mixture can be used as a facial scrub.