Beneath the surface of our skin, we have sebaceous glands that produce an oily, waxy substance called sebum (skin oil). Sebum helps protect and moisturize the skin, keeping hair healthy and shiny. When these glands produce excess oil due to reasons such as genetics, hormonal changes, or stress, the oil can remain trapped in the skin's pores, causing them to become clogged. The larger the pores, the faster oil accumulates, leading to oily skin. While oil is essential for skin health, too much of it can block pores and lead to acne. Although you can't change your pore size, you can make your skin appear less oily and more balanced.

1- Washing Your Face

If you have oily skin, it's best to wash your face twice a day. However, avoid overdoing it. Use mild soaps like glycerin-based ones instead of harsh or irritating cleansers.

2- Honey

Honey is antibacterial and antiseptic, making it ideal for oily skin. Additionally, honey is a natural moisturizer that keeps the skin hydrated without making it oily. To use honey, apply a thin layer on your face, leave it on for about 10 minutes, then rinse off with warm water.

3- Clay

Certain types of clay (read more here) are used as face masks. French green clay, known for its high absorbency, is a popular treatment for oily skin and acne. To prepare a French green clay mask, mix purified water or rose water with a teaspoon of clay and apply it to your skin. Let it dry, then rinse with warm water and pat dry.

4- Oatmeal

Oatmeal helps reduce inflammation and absorb excess skin oil. It can be used as a mask or exfoliant. Typically, oatmeal is ground and mixed with yogurt, honey, or mashed fruits like banana or apple. Mix 1/2 cup of ground oatmeal with hot water and add one tablespoon of honey. Massage this mixture onto your face for about three minutes, then rinse with warm water. You can also leave the mixture on your skin for 10-15 minutes without massaging for similar effects.

5- Blotting Papers

These thin, small sheets help control excess oil production and absorb extra facial oil, preventing your skin from appearing shiny or greasy. Blotting papers are inexpensive, widely available, and can be used as needed throughout the day.

6- Egg White and Lemon

A mixture of egg whites and lemon tightens the skin's pores. Lemon has antibacterial properties, and its acids help absorb oil. To prepare this mask, mix one egg white with a teaspoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice, apply it to your face, and let it dry before rinsing with warm water.

7- Almonds

Ground almonds not only exfoliate the skin but also help remove excess oil and impurities. Mix three teaspoons of finely ground raw almonds with two tablespoons of raw honey and gently massage onto your face in circular motions. Rinse with warm water and pat dry. Alternatively, you can grind almonds into a soft paste and leave it on your skin for 10-15 minutes.

8- Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is effective in treating oily skin. Apply a thin layer of aloe vera gel to your face before bedtime and leave it on overnight. Since aloe vera can cause allergic reactions in sensitive skin, it's best to test a small amount on your arm first. If no reaction occurs within 24-48 hours, it is safe to use.

9- Tomatoes

Tomatoes contain salicylic acid and are a natural remedy for acne. The acids in tomatoes help absorb excess oil and unclog pores. To make a tomato exfoliating mask, mix one teaspoon of sugar with mashed tomatoes and apply it to your skin in circular motions. Rinse off after five minutes with warm water. You can also use tomato pulp or slices as a mask.

10- Jojoba Oil

While using oil to treat oily skin might seem counterintuitive, jojoba oil can be effective in reducing oil production and balancing skin's natural oils. Applying clay masks with jojoba oil two to three times a week can help improve skin conditions and mild acne.

11- Limiting Alcohol Consumption

Excessive alcohol consumption can enlarge blood vessels and sebaceous glands, increasing pore size. It's best to limit daily alcohol intake.

12- Green Tea Products

The antioxidants in green tea can help treat various skin conditions, including oily skin. Research suggests these antioxidants may reduce sebum production, making green tea-based moisturizers and cleansers beneficial.

13- Reducing Stress

Stress can trigger hormone release that increases sebum production. You can reduce stress using the following techniques:

• Yoga
• Meditation
• Avoiding nicotine and alcohol
• Getting sufficient sleep
• Regular exercise
• Drinking plenty of water

14- Proper Use of Makeup

Using oil-free, water-based, or mineral-based makeup can prevent clogged pores. Additionally, individuals with oily skin should remove makeup before bedtime with gentle cleansers (with a skin-friendly pH) to allow pores to breathe and prevent irritation. Gently pat the skin dry with a clean cloth instead of rubbing.

15- Electric Cleansing Brushes

Electric cleansing brushes have gained attention in recent years. While some people doubt their effectiveness, these brushes provide gentle, deeper cleansing and exfoliation, helping reduce excess oil on the skin.

Sources: medicalnewstoday.com, healthline.com