Holistic Skincare Regimen for Oily Skin

Several factors can contribute to the development of oily skin, including:

Over-washing the face or using harsh, drying skincare products can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to a rebound effect where the skin produces even more oil to compensate.

Fluctuations in hormone levels, such as those occurring during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause, can influence sebum production.

Increased androgen hormones, such as testosterone, are often associated with higher sebum production.

Stress can trigger hormonal changes, including the release of cortisol, which may influence sebum production.

Certain medications, such as hormonal contraceptives, corticosteroids, and some antipsychotics, may impact sebum production and contribute to oily skin.

Some studies suggest that certain foods, such as high-glycemic foods and dairy products, may contribute to increased sebum production (more on this below).

Hot and humid weather can stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more oil.

Cold and dry climates may also lead to increased oil production as the skin tries to compensate for the lack of moisture.

• Plant-based skincare products
• Proper hydration
• Regular exercise
• A Whole Food diet
• Deep sleep
• Stress management
• Mindfulness practice 

Plant-based skin care products are best for overall wellness, as they are easy on the immune system and have a far lower risk of creating or exacerbating allergies.

If you are a DIY skin care maker, use the suggested ingredients below for amazing, chemical-free formulations for oily skin (always use trusted formulations, as essential oils cannot be used on the skin without a very high dilution rate!).

If you are not a maker, read the labels of the oily skin care products you are purchasing and aim for items that include many of the essential oils and carriers listed below.

Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) essential oil is an astringent oil that can decrease sebum production by reducing gland size.

Geranium (Pelargonium x asperum) essential oil relieves excess oil and is used for chronic skin inflammation.

Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi) essential oil has a cooling effect when applied to the skin and is used to contract and tighten skin.

Grapeseed Oil (Vitis vinifera) is an astringent carrier oil that makes skin soft, elastic, and evens out skin tone.

Jojoba Oil (Simmondsia chinensis) is a carrier oil (that is actually a liquid wax) with an indefinite shelf life and is non-allergenic, incredibly moisturizing, and anti-inflammatory.

Lemon (Citrus limon) essential oil is antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and an astringent that can contract and tighten the tissues.

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis ct. 1,8 cineole or ct. camphor) essential oil is used for cell regeneration and is an astringent that helps to regulate oily secretions of the hair follicles.

Sweet Almond Oil (Prunus dulcis) is a carrier oil that is rich in minerals and vitamins, and easily absorbed for deep moisture on all skin types.

Sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) essential oil is an antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and astringent that can tone the skin and reduce secretions.

Fatty fish, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, can help balance oil production in the skin by reducing inflammation and regulating sebum production, leading to improved skin health and potentially reducing oiliness.

Citrus fruits contain high levels of vitamin C and antioxidants, which can help regulate oil production, promote collagen synthesis, and provide a brightening effect on the skin, ultimately contributing to a healthier complexion for oily skin types.

Chia and flax seeds are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which possess anti-inflammatory properties and can help regulate sebum production in oily skin, leading to a more balanced complexion and reduced oiliness.

The high fiber content of chia and flaxseeds aids in toxin removal, promoting clearer skin.

Tofu and legumes are rich in protein and contain zinc, which helps regulate oil production and control sebum levels in oily skin.

The nutrient-dense profiles of tofu and legumes support overall skin health, potentially reducing inflammation and promoting a clearer complexion.

Sweet potatoes are high in vitamin A, which helps regulate oil production in the skin and promotes cell turnover, reducing the likelihood of clogged pores and excess oiliness.

The antioxidant content of sweet potatoes may help combat inflammation, contributing to a clearer complexion for oily skin types.

Berries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, particularly vitamin C, which can help regulate sebum production and reduce inflammation in oily skin.

The high fiber content of berries also aids in detoxification, potentially leading to a clearer complexion and balanced oil levels.

Spinach and kale are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants, which help regulate sebum production and reduce inflammation in oily skin.

Additionally, their high antioxidant content supports overall skin health, potentially leading to a clearer complexion and balanced oil levels.

Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which can help regulate sebum production and reduce excess oiliness in the skin.

The acidic nature of tomatoes can help balance the skin’s pH levels, potentially minimizing the appearance of pores and promoting a clearer complexion for oily skin types.

Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A, an essential nutrient for skin health.

Vitamin A helps regulate oil production, reduces inflammation, and promotes cell turnover, contributing to a balanced complexion and reduced oiliness in the skin.

Green tea contains catechins, powerful antioxidants known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help regulate sebum production and reduce excess oiliness in the skin.

The astringent properties of green tea may help shrink pores and control shine, leading to a clearer and more balanced complexion for oily skin types.

Some studies suggest a link between high-glycemic foods and dairy products with increased acne and oily skin.

High glycemic foods are those that cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels due to their quick digestion and absorption.

• White bread
• White rice
• Sugary cereals
• Baked goods (cakes, cookies, pastries) made with refined flour and sugar
• Potato products (such as mashed potatoes and french fries)
• Sugary drinks (soda, fruit juices)
• Candies and sweets
• Processed snacks (chips, crackers)
• Instant oatmeal with added sugars
• Certain fruits such as watermelon and pineapple (although fruits generally have natural sugars, some have higher glycemic indexes than others)

Consuming high-glycemic foods in moderation and balancing them with low-glycemic foods can help maintain stable blood sugar levels and promote overall health.

Dairy products contain various components such as hormones, saturated fats, proteins, high-glycemic indexes, and sugars that can potentially contribute to increased sebum production and oily skin for some individuals.

• Milk
• Cheese
• Butter
• Cream
• Yogurt
• Ice Cream
• Whey Protein Supplements
• Processed Dairy Snacks (e.g., cheese crackers)
• Flavored Dairy Drinks (e.g., chocolate milk)
• Dairy-based desserts (e.g., custard, pudding)

It’s important to note that while dairy products may contribute to oily skin for some individuals, NOT EVERYONE will experience the same effects.

Factors such as genetics, overall diet, skincare routine, and individual sensitivities play a role in how dairy affects skin health.

If you are trying to figure out what is impacting your oily skin, consider reducing your intake or eliminating dairy products from your diet and monitor how your skin responds.

• In the morning and the evening, use an oil-based cleanser to gently wash away any impurities and dead skin cells, such as this Eucalyptus Aloe Soap Bar:

• Spray a gentle toner over a cleansed face two times a day.
• Our Cactus Water Facial Mist is a hydrated, plant-based toner that is perfect for oily skin:

• A plant-based, 100% oil facial serum is recommended in place of water-based creams for facial care.
• Always apply face serum at night, and in the morning if possible with your ‘get out the door’ routine (it needs a bit to soak in before applying makeup).

• Men: 13 cups (~3 liters) of water a day
• Women: 9 cups (~2+ liters) a day

• The amount of exercise recommended varies widely based on age and health conditions.
• The average adult (ages 18-64) needs 150-300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity (this is just to provide a frame of reference to start with). Visit the World Health Organization here for more info.

• Eating for wellness also impacts the health and appearance of the skin greatly. Try adding one new recipe a week that is specific to oily skin (see recommendations in the above section).

• The goal of mindfulness is to achieve focused relaxation while paying attention to thoughts and sensations and being fully present.
• This can be achieved through meditation, gratitude practice, belly breathing, mindful walking, body scans, and more.

• Fresh outside air has tons of positive impacts on overall health (and most individuals aren’t getting close to enough of it).
• Breathing fresh air increases oxygen in the blood, increases energy, improves digestion, cleans the lungs, relieves stress and anxiety, improves cell function, and improves cognitive abilities…to name just a few benefits (and all of these impact the skin’s glow)!

• If you’re washing your face with an oil-based cleanser as mentioned in the first step, you don’t need another product – this should do the trick for most makeup.
• For some waterproof makeup that is a bit more stubborn, grab some reusable makeup remover pads.

• Apply under-eye care at night (after cleansing and spraying toner).

• Sleep experts recommend cutting off screen time an hour before bed (or two hours for the best benefits…time to bust out that library card!)

• It’s called ‘beauty sleep’ for a reason, as deep sleep (slow-wave sleep) stimulates cell turnover and collagen production.
• Deep sleep reduces inflammation and combats issues, such as eczema and acne, and is essential for memory, mood regulation, brain health, and immune function.

• Use a gentle, natural exfoliator a couple of days a week will help keep skin fresh and oil manageable.

Cleanse your face twice daily with a gentle cleanser. Steer clear of harsh or alcohol-based products, as they can strip your skin of natural oils, leading to increased oil production.

Choose oil-free and non-comedogenic makeup products to avoid clogging pores.

Look for products labeled as “matte” or “oil-free.”

Choose a gentle exfoliator (such as clay masks) to remove dead skin cells, prevent clogged pores, and control oil.

In drier climates or during the winter, using a humidifier in your bedroom can add moisture to the air, preventing your skin from overproducing oil in response to dry conditions.

Use lukewarm water when showering. Hot water can strip your skin of natural oils, leading to increased oil production.

Stress can contribute to oily skin. Practice stress-reducing activities like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.