10 Best Herbal Essential Oils For Oily Face

Herbal essential oils are natural extracts derived from plants and are commonly used in skincare for their therapeutic properties.

For oily skin, essential oils like tea tree, lavender, and clary sage are particularly beneficial due to their antimicrobial and balancing effects. These oils can help regulate sebum production, reduce excess oiliness, and prevent breakouts when used properly. However, they should always be diluted with a carrier oil to avoid skin irritation.

Incorporating these essential oils into a skincare routine can promote clearer, healthier skin with a more balanced complexion.

1. Melaleuca alternifolia

Melaleuca alternifolia, commonly known as tea tree oil, is a popular essential oil derived from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia plant, native to Australia.

It is well-known for its potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a favored choice for addressing oily skin concerns. When diluted properly, tea tree oil can help reduce excess sebum production, unclog pores, and prevent acne breakouts, which are common in oily skin types. Its soothing effects also help calm redness and irritation, promoting a clearer, more balanced complexion.

However, it is important to use tea tree oil sparingly and always dilute it with a carrier oil to avoid skin irritation.

2. Santalum album

Santalum album, also known as sandalwood essential oil, is a natural remedy often used in skincare for its calming and balancing properties.

This oil is particularly beneficial for oily skin due to its ability to regulate sebum production and reduce excess oiliness without stripping the skin of its natural moisture. Its soothing aroma can also help reduce inflammation and redness, making it ideal for those with acne-prone or sensitive skin. When diluted properly, sandalwood essential oil can be applied directly to the face to promote a clearer, more balanced complexion.

Overall, it offers a holistic approach to managing oily skin while providing a pleasant and aromatic sensory experience.

3. Lavandula angustifolia

Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as English lavender, is a popular herbal essential oil widely used for its calming and skin-soothing properties.

When diluted properly, it can be beneficial for oily skin due to its ability to balance sebum production and reduce excess oiliness. The anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties of lavender oil help in calming skin irritations and preventing breakouts, making it ideal for those with oily or acne-prone complexions. Its gentle nature allows it to be safely incorporated into daily skincare routines, such as facial toners or serums.

Overall, lavender essential oil offers a natural and effective solution for maintaining a balanced, healthy glow on oily skin.

4. Rosmarinus officinalis

Rosmarinus officinalis, commonly known as rosemary, is a versatile herb whose essential oil is widely used in skincare, particularly for oily skin.

This essential oil is known for its ability to regulate sebum production, helping to reduce excess oiliness on the face. Its antibacterial and antioxidant properties make it effective in preventing breakouts and promoting a clearer complexion. Rosemary essential oil also has a refreshing aroma that can uplift the mood while providing a soothing effect on the skin.

When properly diluted, it can be safely incorporated into facial serums or toners to enhance skin health and balance.

5. Eucalyptus globulus

Eucalyptus globulus, commonly known as eucalyptus oil, is a popular herbal essential oil derived from the leaves of the eucalyptus tree.

It is widely used in aromatherapy and skincare due to its refreshing and invigorating properties. For oily skin, eucalyptus oil can help regulate sebum production and reduce excess oiliness, making it an effective natural remedy. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties also help in preventing acne and keeping the skin clear.

However, it should be diluted with a carrier oil before applying to the face to avoid irritation.

6. Cinnamomum zeylanicum

Cinnamomum zeylanicum, commonly known as cinnamon bark, is a popular source of essential oils that is often used in skincare, particularly for oily skin.

The essential oil derived from its bark contains compounds like cinnamaldehyde, which have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help regulate sebum production. When used in a diluted form, cinnamon essential oil can help reduce excess oiliness and prevent breakouts on the face. However, due to its potency, it should always be diluted with a carrier oil before applying to the skin.

It is also important to perform a patch test to avoid potential irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin.

7. Pogostemon cablin

Pogostemon cablin, also known as Indonesian lemongrass, is a popular herb used in aromatherapy and skincare for its refreshing and uplifting properties.

Its essential oil is particularly beneficial for oily skin due to its ability to regulate sebum production and reduce excess oiliness. The oil contains citral and geraniol, which have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help combat acne-causing bacteria on the skin. When used in facial treatments, Pogostemon cablin essential oil can help balance skin texture and provide a cooling sensation that soothes irritation.

However, it should always be diluted with a carrier oil before applying to the face to prevent irritation.

8. Cymbopogon citratus

Cymbopogon citratus, commonly known as lemon grass, is a popular herbal plant used for its essential oils, which are widely recognized for their beneficial properties for oily skin.

The essential oil of lemon grass contains compounds like citral and geraniol, which have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help regulate sebum production and reduce excess oiliness on the face. It is often used in natural skincare routines to soothe acne-prone skin and prevent breakouts due to its ability to balance the skin's oil levels. Additionally, the refreshing scent of lemon grass essential oil can provide a calming effect, making it a pleasant addition to facial treatments.

When diluted properly with a carrier oil, it can be safely applied to the skin to maintain a clear and balanced complexion.

9. Chamomilla recutita

Chamomilla recutita, commonly known as German chamomile, is a popular herbal essential oil known for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties.

When used for oily skin, this essential oil can help regulate sebum production and reduce excess oiliness due to its soothing and balancing effects on the skin’s natural pH. Its antioxidant and antiseptic qualities make it effective in preventing breakouts and reducing redness associated with acne-prone skin. Chamomile essential oil is typically diluted with a carrier oil before application to avoid irritation, making it a safe and gentle choice for oily facial care.

Overall, it offers a natural and effective solution for maintaining a balanced, clear complexion.

10. Cymbopogon martini

Cymbopogon martini, commonly known as citronella grass, produces a refreshing essential oil that is particularly beneficial for oily skin.

This herbal essential oil is known for its astringent and antibacterial properties, which help to reduce excess sebum production and prevent breakouts. Its uplifting scent also provides a calming effect, making it ideal for use in facial toners or masks. When diluted properly, it can be safely applied to the face to help balance oiliness and improve skin texture.

Regular use of cymbopogon martini essential oil can contribute to a clearer, more balanced complexion for those with oily skin concerns.