Natural remedies for oily skin

Short answer
Gentle cleansing and non-comedogenic moisturising may reduce the effects of oily skin, but home remedies cannot treat every underlying cause.
This answers one question. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an assessment by a licensed doctor.
At a glance
- Start with
- Gentle cleansing and non-comedogenic moisturiser
- Avoid
- Lemon, baking soda, toothpaste, and abrasive scrubs
- Consider assessment
- Painful spots, scarring, or persistent scale
Why skin becomes oily
Oily Skin occurs when sebaceous glands produce more sebum than the skin surface needs. Hormones, genetics, heat, stress, and some products can influence it. Oil itself is not dirt, and scrubbing or using alcohol-based products can irritate the barrier and trigger more discomfort. Excess oil can contribute to blocked pores and Acne, while redness and scale around the nose, eyebrows, or scalp may fit Seborrheic Dermatitis. A clinician can also consider Hormonal Acne when breakouts follow a recurring pattern or involve the jawline.
Safer home measures
Wash with a gentle cleanser after sweating and use lukewarm water. Choose fragrance-free, non-comedogenic sunscreen and moisturiser, even when the skin feels greasy. Blotting papers can remove surface shine without repeated washing. Avoid lemon juice, baking soda, toothpaste, and abrasive scrubs because they can cause irritation or burns. Introduce one product at a time and stop if stinging, swelling, or persistent redness develops. If oiliness and breakouts remain difficult to control, ask about prescription options, including Isotretinoin Treatment when clinically appropriate.
When to seek care
Book an assessment for painful deep spots, scarring, sudden severe oiliness, or a rash with itching and scale. Seek urgent help for facial swelling, blistering, or breathing difficulty after a product. Describe your routine, menstrual or hormonal changes if relevant, medicines, and the areas involved. This helps separate ordinary oil production from acne, irritation, or another skin disorder.
Questions for your doctor
Is my oiliness linked to Acne, Hormonal Acne, or Seborrheic Dermatitis? Which cleanser and moisturiser suit my barrier? Could any medicine be contributing? What treatment is appropriate if home care is not enough?
Find care
General Clinics & Polyclinics in Abu Dhabi
That answer is general. If you want it applied to your own case, these are licensed general clinics & polyclinics listed in Abu Dhabi.
27 Ar Ruwwad St - Shakhbout City - MSH4 - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, Cigna, MetLife +20 more
Al Ruwais, Al Dhafrah
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +16 more
Al Bahyah - Al Bahyah Old - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, Cigna, Allianz Care +18 more
Abu Dhabi
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +27 more
Ordered by verification status and how complete each clinic's public record is, then alphabetically. This is a directory listing, not a ranking — Zavis does not rate or recommend providers.
A factual listing drawn from the DHA, DOH and MOHAP licence registers. It is not a referral, an endorsement, or advice that any of these providers is right for you.
Questions people ask
Does washing more often stop oily skin?
Repeated washing can irritate the barrier without changing gland activity; a gentle routine is usually more sustainable.
Can moisturiser make oily skin worse?
A lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser can support the barrier and may be more comfortable than leaving irritated skin untreated.
Keep reading
Medical disclaimer. This page is general health information, not medical advice, and it cannot diagnose you. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider about your own symptoms and treatment. In an emergency in the UAE, call 998 for an ambulance.