Having oily skin is challenging for many of us, and it’s not uncommon, especially when achieving a smooth base for makeup application. And let’s not forget the frustrating breakouts and oil build-up that result from having a shiny, slick barrier on our skin. So what exactly is the cause of oily skin?

Oily skin results from the overproduction of sebum from sebaceous glands. Sebum is made out of natural fats, and it’s actually not a negative because it provides your hair and skin with optimal health, protecting and moisturizing it. However, too much of a good thing can be harmful, and too much sebum can lead to oily skin, clogged pores, and breakouts. There isn’t a definite answer to why many people suffer from oily skin challenges. Still, hormone changes, stress, climate, or the lack of a proper skincare regimen can be a few factors that contribute to the production of more oil in their skin than others. Luckily, natural, toxin-free remedies and products can help you keep the oil at bay and provide optimal skin health in the long run without breaking the bank. Here are a few natural tips, tricks, and recommendations to help you naturally achieve clear skin at home. 

Start with a face wash. 

Cleansing your face daily might seem the most obvious solution to combat oiliness. However, some need help finding the happy medium between regularly washing or overwashing. Regarding oily skin types, it’s about finding the right balance and the right cleanser that isn’t too abrasive or too drying to the skin. If you don’t wash your face regularly, excess sebum can trap dirt or dead skin, leading to clogged pores, while washing your face too much can lead to skin drying, which leads to the skin barrier producing more oil to compensate for drying out. The best tip is to avoid cleansers that are heavily perfumed, have harsh dyes or abrasive chemicals, and opt for a gentle, natural cleanser to start your skincare routine. You must wash off pore-clogging makeup and debris from a long day, especially before bedtime. For starters, we recommend the following:

Bee Natural’s Clarifying Facial Wash With AHA & BHA 

A gentle but effective cleanser that clarifies and exfoliates, perfect for those struggling with oily skin. This cleanser can be used up to 1x daily for beginners until skin tolerance is determined. This clarifying facial wash includes AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) glycolic 10%, which helps refine the skin and reduces fine lines, wrinkles, and pore size. Some say AHAs are the gold standard for exfoliation and rejuvenation without physical exfoliating beads that can tear the skin’s barrier. It also includes BHA (Salycic acid) that deeply cleanses the pores to remove excess sebum and oil, fighting inflammation without drying. Lastly, the gentle formula consists of the cherry on top of lactic acid that helps hydrate the skin for a plumping, brighter and dewier effect. 

Fight Oil with Oil 

For those struggling with oily, acne-prone skin, there’s a huge misconception to avoid hydrating or oil-based products because they already have excess grease on their skin barrier. However, as mentioned above, most of the time, the cause of oily skin is very dehydrated, so the skin produces more oil to compensate. When your skin has the perfect balance of natural oils and moisture, it will produce less sebum while giving you a healthy glass-skin glow. 

Don’t shy away from oils; your skin will thank you later! The best oils are natural and non-comedogenic such as rose hip, castor, or argan oil. The best way to incorporate oils into your skincare routine is through an oil-based makeup remover and following up with a gentle face cleanser. Our favorite is: 

Bee Natural’s Cleansing Oil Makeup Remover

The basis of a great skincare routine is cleansing; this all-natural oil-based makeup remover is perfect for getting in the nooks and crannies of your beautiful face. Gently removing eye makeup and hard-to-remove waterproof makeup, giving your skin a clean base for a facial wash without stripping the skin’s natural moisture. This gentle formula includes natural oils such as castor and glycerin with a subtle fragrance from natural essential oils such as lavender and grapefruit. The best part about this skin potion? It won’t aggravate acne-prone skin! 

Detoxify with Natural Clays 

Natural cosmetic clays from the earth have been a skincare staple for centuries because of their healing and detoxifying benefits. Clays absorb oil by purifying the skin while treating many skin conditions. However, clay masks aren’t recommended for daily use like cleansers or moisturizers, because they can dry out your skin, so it’s best to use them a few times a week. We love the following: 

Queen Bee Detox Facial Masque 

If you want to unwind after a productive day, this detox facial masque is the perfect vacation in a jar that provides your skin with lasting benefits. Made with a natural blend of mineral-rich clays, oatmeal, lavender, buttermilk, green tea, and essential oils, this mask helps detoxify and clarify troubled oily skin. The mineral clays temporarily tighten congested skin and can also be used as a spot treatment to treat angry blemishes overnight. Now that’s a win-win! 

Hydrate Inside and Out! 

Hydrate! Pretty straightforward, right? Throughout the day, our pores get clogged and enlarged; the more water you drink, there is a healthy balance of oil and water on your skin’s barrier. It’s also important to include a natural, non-comedogenic moisturizer to retain that healthy balance because hydrated skin means healthy skin, even for those who struggle with oily skin. Moisture and hydration are essential for all skin types; when choosing moisture in your skincare lineup, opt for something light and gentle versus heavier creams that might only work for drier skin types. We recommend: 

Oil-Free Moisturizer Facial Serum

This oil-free miracle in a bottle is suitable for all skin types because it’s gentle, light-weight, and most importantly, non-comedogenic; this facial serum is a cult favorite designed to soothe troubled skin with beneficial ingredients such as Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) and the perfect blend of essential oils such as tea tree oil, lavender, and lemon. If you’re struggling with angry breakouts, this unique formula contains Feverfew extracts to reduce inflammation associated with acne. And that’s not all; men love it too! It is also a great aftershave because of its gentle, hydrating benefits! 

How to Avoid Oily Skin

Now, many factors cause oily skin, and it differs for everybody. When the causes are through genetics or hormones, it can be challenging to prevent, but subtle lifestyle changes in diet and sleep are essential. It’s crucial to avoid over-processed foods, such as fried food or food high in sugar. 

When it comes to problematic acne-prone oily skin, many individuals are tempted to temporarily hide the problem by covering it up with heavy makeup. However, a good base for your skin starts with skincare. It’s recommended to reduce the use of pore-clogging makeup and opt for water versus oil-based products. Remember, the solution to oily skin is finding the perfect balance. If further problems persist, contact a doctor or dermatologist to find the root problem.