It can be a challenge to manage seborrhea (the medical term for oily skin).
This skin type is a result of the glands that provide the skin with moisture producing an excess of sebum (natural skin oil) leaving your skin shiny, uncomfortable and often on the brink of a breakout.
Here’s how to tackle that sheen on your skin the natural way – with essential oils that combat oiliness.
Diluting essential oils
Essential oils are extremely concentrated so never apply them directly to your skin. Mix them with a carrier oil, or other substance, before using in your skincare routine. A few examples include:
- Unscented lotion
- Aloe Vera gel
- Floral waters
- Distilled water – perfect if you’re doing a facial steam treatment
- Carrier oil – such as jojoba oil or grapeseed oil
- Witch hazel – a natural acne treatment all by itself!
Top 5 essential oils for oily skin
1. Lemon essential oil
One of the best oils for treating excessively oily skin, lemon oil normalizes the natural production of oils (sebum) and also works to tighten pores – improving the texture, look, and feel of your skin.
2. Tea tree oil
This oil regulates and reduces the production of oils on your skin leaving it clean and fresh to the touch. It also offers antibacterial and antifungal properties which, when it comes to skin care, is a pretty big plus!
Bonus Tip: tea tree is one of the few essential oils that can be applied full strength to the skin!
3. Fennel essential oil
For skin that isn’t excessively oily, but on the oily side, fennel oil promises to balance out the natural oils produced by your skin without drying out your skin. It acts as a toner, tightens pores and increases the circulation beneath the skin (essential for healthy, regenerative skin).
4. Rosemary essential oil
Not only does this oil balance the natural oils of your skin, but it also purifies the skin and helps clear clogged pores – in the game of skin care, this is a fierce contender!
5. Basil essential oil
Oily skin or clogged pores are no match for the power of basil oil. As it removes dirt and impurities from your skin, it leaves a cool and refreshing feeling behind it. Did you know that this oil is an excellent source of vitamin K?
