Last updated: Apr 11, 2024
10 best herbal teas for oily skin
For those struggling with oily skin, certain herbal teas have proven to be effective in balancing the skin's natural moisture levels.
Peppermint tea, with its cooling properties, helps to reduce sebum production, while also providing an invigorating tone to the skin. Dandelion tea, rich in antioxidants, works to purify the skin from within, unclogging pores and reducing acne. Meanwhile, chamomile tea's soothing effects calm inflammation, reducing redness and irritation.
By incorporating these herbal teas into your daily routine, you'll notice a significant improvement in your skin's overall clarity and radiance.
1. Green Tea
Green tea contains bioactive compounds, such as catechins and flavonoids, that exhibit potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
These compounds help regulate sebum production, reducing the excess oil that clogs pores and leads to acne. Furthermore, green tea's antimicrobial properties inhibit the growth of Cutibacterium acnes, a bacterium responsible for causing acne. Additionally, green tea's anti-inflammatory effects soothe skin irritation, alleviating redness and swelling.
Lastly, green tea's antioxidants protect the skin from environmental stressors and damage, promoting overall skin health and combating the factors that exacerbate oily skin.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in green tea tea that help with oily skin.
- Leaves: The leaves of green tea are rich in antioxidants that help to reduce the production of sebum, making it ideal for oily skin.
- Buds: The buds of green tea contain high concentrations of catechins, known for their astringent properties that help to control excess oil on the skin.
- Seeds: Green tea seeds are a natural source of vitamin E and fatty acids, which aid in maintaining the skin's natural barrier and reducing the appearance of oily skin.
- Stems: Green tea stems are rich in flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe irritated skin and regulate sebum production.
- Flowers: The flowers of green tea contain essential oils with antimicrobial properties, which can help to balance the skin's natural flora and reduce the appearance of oily skin.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in green tea tea that aid with oily skin.
- Catechins: These are antioxidants that help reduce sebum production, which can help control oily skin.
- Epigallocatechin Gallate: This catechin has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe irritated skin and reduce redness associated with oily skin.
- Theanine: This amino acid provides anti-inflammatory benefits, helping to calm and soothe oily and acne-prone skin.
- Chlorophyll: This pigment has anti-bacterial properties that can help control acne-causing bacteria, often a problem for those with oily skin.
- Tannins: These astringent compounds help to reduce skin's oiliness and shrink the appearance of pores.
- Vitamin E: This fat-soluble antioxidant helps protect the skin from free radical damage and supports skin healing, beneficial for oily skin prone to acne.
- Vitamin C: This water-soluble vitamin aids in collagen production, enhances skin's overall health and complexion, and provides antioxidant protection.
- Saponins: These natural emulsifiers provide a gentle cleansing effect, helping to remove excess oil and impurities from the skin.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic green tea tea for oily skin.
- Boil 1 cup of water for 3-5 minutes.
- Steep 1 green tea bag in hot water for 2-3 minutes.
- Squeeze juice from 1/2 lemon into tea and stir.
- Add 1 tablespoon of honey and mix well.
- Let the tea cool down, then drink, ideally 1-2 times a day for best results.
2. Black Tea
Black tea contains tannins and caffeine, which possess astringent properties that help to reduce excess oil on the skin.
The antioxidants in black tea, such as polyphenols, protect the skin from damage while controlling sebum production. Furthermore, black tea's antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties combat acne-causing bacteria and soothe inflamed skin. By using black tea as a toner or face mask, individuals with oily skin can reap these benefits and maintain a balanced, healthy complexion.
Regular application of black tea to oily skin tightens pores and creates a barrier against environmental pollutants, ensuring long-term skin health.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in black tea tea that help with oily skin.
- Leaves: Rich in tannins and caffeine, black tea leaves help reduce oil production when used in medicinal tea.
- Buds: Abundant in antioxidants, black tea buds aid in maintaining skin's balance and reducing excess oil.
- Rhyzomes: Black tea rhyzomes contain anti-inflammatory properties, helpful in soothing irritated skin and controlling oiliness.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in black tea tea that aid with oily skin.
- Caffeine: Acts as a vasoconstrictor, reducing the appearance of pores and regulating sebum production.
- Theaflavins: Possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to balance sebum production and soothe irritated skin.
- Thearubigins: Exhibit astringent properties, helping to reduce excess oil and tighten pores.
- Epigallocatechin Gallate: An antioxidant that regulates sebum production, reducing shine and improving skin texture.
- Theasinensins: Potent antioxidants with anti-inflammatory effects that promote skin health and reduce skin irritation due to excess oil.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic black tea tea for oily skin.
- Boil 1 cup of water and add 1 teaspoon of high-quality black tea leaves; let it steep for 5 minutes to extract the anti-oxidants.
- In a separate bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of honey and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to create a soothing and exfoliating face mask.
- After the tea has steeped, remove the tea leaves and let the tea cool down to a comfortable temperature.
- Cleanse your face with the cooled black tea, massaging it gently onto your skin for 1-2 minutes.
- Apply the honey and lemon face mask, avoiding the eye area, and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing it off with warm water.
3. Chamomile
Chamomile tea contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that benefit oily skin.
Its antioxidants, including terpenoids and flavonoids, protect the skin from damage and reduce oil production. Chamomile tea's anti-inflammatory abilities soothe skin irritations and diminish redness caused by excess oil. Furthermore, this herbal tea has antimicrobial qualities that battle acne-causing bacteria, promoting a clearer complexion.
Drinking chamomile tea or using it as a toner introduces beneficial compounds to the skin, supporting balanced oil production and a healthier appearance.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in chamomile tea that help with oily skin.
- Flowers: The chamomile flowers contain properties that help balance sebum production, making it ideal for controlling oily skin.
- Leaves: The leaves of chamomile have anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe irritated skin and help reduce redness.
- Seeds: The chamomile seeds are rich in antioxidants that help protect the skin from damage and reduce the appearance of oily skin.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in chamomile tea that aid with oily skin.
- Apigenin: A flavonoid that has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce redness and irritation associated with oily skin.
- Chamazulene: A chemical compound that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help soothe and calm irritated skin.
- Bisabolol: A terpene that has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound-healing properties, which may help reduce inflammation and fight acne-causing bacteria on oily skin.
- Matricin: A chemical compound that is converted to chamazulene in chamomile, and has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help protect the skin from damage and reduce inflammation.
- Alpha-bisabolol: A derivative of bisabolol, that has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and wound-healing properties, which may help soothe and calm irritated oily skin.
- Spiroether: A chemical compound that has anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce redness and irritation associated with oily skin.
- Azulenyl-beta-D-glucopyranoside: A glucoside of chamazulene, that has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation and redness associated with oily skin.
- Apigenin-7-glucoside: A glucoside of apigenin, that has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation associated with oily skin.
- Luteolin: A flavonoid that has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce redness and irritation associated with oily skin.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help protect the skin from damage and reduce inflammation.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile tea for oily skin.
- Boil 1 cup of water and let 1 chamomile tea bag steep for 5-7 minutes.
- In a separate container, mix 1 tablespoon of honey and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.
- Combine the steeped chamomile tea with the honey and lemon mixture.
- Let the mixture cool down to a drinkable temperature.
- Drink the tea and repeat 2-3 times a day for best results.
4. Peppermint
Peppermint tea's primary components, menthol and menthone, possess natural astringent properties.
Astringents work by shrinking pores and reducing the production of sebum, the skin's natural oil. By doing so, peppermint tea helps control the overproduction of sebum, a common cause of oily skin. Additionally, it boasts anti-inflammatory and antibacterial qualities that aid in soothing irritation and preventing acne breakouts.
Regularly consuming peppermint tea or using it as a compress or toner offers a chemical-free, cost-effective approach to managing oily skin.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in peppermint tea that help with oily skin.
- Leaves: Rich in menthol and menthone, peppermint leaves brew a potent tea that aids in controlling sebum production.
- Flowers: High in antioxidants, peppermint flowers produce a soothing tea that combats skin inflammation and balances oily skin.
- Seeds: Packed with essential oils, peppermint seeds create a nourishing tea that helps regulate oil glands and maintains skin's natural moisture.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in peppermint tea that aid with oily skin.
- Menthol: Provides a cooling sensation and helps to unclog pores, reducing the appearance of oily skin.
- Mentone: Acts as an anti-inflammatory, reducing redness and soothing irritation caused by oily skin.
- Limonene: Exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to protect and calm oily skin.
- Rosmarinic acid: Aids in reducing excess sebum production, which contributes to oily skin.
- Tannins: Act as a natural astringent, helping to tighten pores and decrease the presence of oil on the skin.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint tea for oily skin.
- In a teapot, combine 1 teaspoon of dried peppermint leaves with 8 ounces of boiling water.
- Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes, allowing the peppermint leaves to release their oils.
- Strain the tea to remove the spent peppermint leaves.
- Let the tea cool down to a comfortable drinking temperature.
- Sip the peppermint tea slowly, allowing it to soothe and balance your oily skin.
5. Spearmint
Spearmint tea contains anti-androgenic properties that reduce the production of sebum, a natural oil that leads to oily skin when over-secreted.
This tea's antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory qualities fight acne-causing bacteria and soothe skin inflammation. Moreover, spearmint tea's antioxidants protect skin cells from damage while promoting cell regeneration. By hydrating the skin and maintaining its balance, spearmint tea prevents excessive oil production.
Ultimately, drinking spearmint tea consistently leads to improved skin health, combating oily skin effectively.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in spearmint tea that help with oily skin.
- Leaves: Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, spearmint leaves help control sebum production and soothe irritated skin.
- Flowers: Packed with essential oils, spearmint flowers offer potent astringent properties that can help regulate oiliness and tighten pores.
- Seeds: Spearmint seeds contain high levels of skin-nourishing fatty acids, promoting balanced sebum production and supporting a healthy skin barrier.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in spearmint tea that aid with oily skin.
- Menthol: Provides a cooling sensation and helps to control excess oil production in the skin.
- Rosmarinic Acid: Acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing redness and swelling associated with oily skin.
- Limonene: A natural antioxidant and antibacterial compound, it helps to protect the skin from damage and prevents acne-causing bacteria.
- Eugenol: Offers antiseptic and analgesic properties, aiding in the prevention of skin infections and providing soothing relief.
- Phenolic Acids: Act as potent antioxidants, reducing skin damage and inflammation, and regulating sebum production.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic spearmint tea for oily skin.
- In a small pot, boil 2 cups of water for 5 minutes.
- Add 1 tablespoon of dried spearmint leaves to the boiling water, reduce heat, and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes.
- Turn off the heat, cover the pot, and let the tea steep for an additional 10 minutes.
- Strain the tea to remove the spearmint leaves, then let it cool to a drinkable temperature.
- Drink the spearmint tea twice daily for best results.
6. Yarrow
Yarrow tea provides a natural solution for oily skin, thanks to its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties.
This herbal tea, made from the yarrow plant, tightens pores and reduces the production of sebum, leading to a balanced skin appearance. The presence of azulene, a compound in yarrow, soothes irritated skin and helps eliminate excess oil. Furthermore, yarrow tea's antimicrobial qualities combat acne-causing bacteria, promoting clearer skin.
Regular consumption of yarrow tea or topical application of its infusions contributes to a healthier, more matte complexion.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in yarrow tea that help with oily skin.
- Leaves: Contain azulene, which helps regulate sebum production in the skin.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in yarrow tea that aid with oily skin.
- Alpha-linolenic acid: A type of omega-3 fatty acid that helps to reduce inflammation, promoting balanced and healthy skin.
- Azulene: A compound that has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, which helps control excess oil production and soothe irritated skin.
- Flavonoids: Plant compounds with antioxidant properties that help protect skin from damage and reduce redness, contributing to a more even skin tone.
- Tannins: Astringent compounds that help to shrink pores, reduce sebum production, and improve the skin's overall appearance.
- Sesquiterpene lactones: Plant compounds with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, aiding in the reduction of acne and breakouts.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yarrow tea for oily skin.
- Harvest 2-3 tablespoons of fresh yarrow flowers and leaves, making sure they are free of pesticides and chemicals.
- Rinse the harvested yarrow in cool water, then crush the flowers and leaves to release their natural oils.
- In a tea infuser or teapot, steep the crushed yarrow in 16 ounces of boiling water for 10-15 minutes.
- After steeping, remove the tea infuser or strain the tea to remove the yarrow solids.
- Drink the warm yarrow tea, or let it cool and apply it topically to oily skin using a clean cotton ball.
7. Nettle
Nettle tea provides a natural solution for oily skin due to its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties.
These properties, derived from plant acids, help to tighten pores and reduce the production of sebum. Furthermore, nettle tea contains essential minerals and vitamins, such as vitamin C and iron, which support skin health and collagen production. As a result, drinking nettle tea promotes balanced skin, reducing shine and providing a more even skin tone.
Lastly, its antioxidant qualities protect the skin from oxidative stress, preserving its youthful appearance.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in nettle tea that help with oily skin.
- Leaves: High in nutrients, leaves help regulate oil production when used in medicinal tea for oily skin.
- Stems: Astringent properties of stems tighten pores and reduce excess oil in medicinal tea for oily skin.
- Flowers: Rich in antioxidants, flowers help soothe irritated skin and control oiliness in medicinal tea for oily skin.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in nettle tea that aid with oily skin.
- Tannins: These astringent compounds help to remove excess oil from the skin by tightening pores and reducing sebum production.
- Flavonoids: Antioxidant flavonoids, such as quercetin and rutin, found in nettle tea help to reduce inflammation and control sebum production, which benefits oily skin.
- Chlorophyll: This pigment has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce acne breakouts and soothe irritated skin.
- Vitamin C: Nettle tea contains vitamin C, which supports collagen production, aids in skin repair, and helps brighten the complexion by reducing pigmentation caused by acne.
- Caffeic acid: An antioxidant found in nettle tea, caffeic acid has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to soothe and calm irritated skin affected by oily skin conditions.
- Beta-sitosterol: A plant sterol that reduces inflammation and may help reduce oil production in the skin by regulating sebaceous gland activity.
- Fatty acids: Nettle tea contains essential fatty acids such as linoleic acid. These fatty acids help maintain the skin barrier, improve overall skin health, and support a balanced sebum production in oily skin.
- Minerals: Nettle tea contains various minerals such as magnesium, calcium, and potassium. These minerals aid in maintaining the skin's natural balance, reducing oiliness and contributing to a healthier appearance.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic nettle tea for oily skin.
- Gather 2 handfuls of fresh stinging nettle leaves, ensuring they are free from pesticides and pollutants.
- Rinse the nettle leaves under cold running water to remove any remaining impurities and insects.
- Crush or chop the nettle leaves to release their natural oils and active compounds.
- Place the crushed nettle leaves in a teapot and pour 1 liter of boiling water over them. Let the tea steep for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the nettle tea into a cup, discarding the spent leaves, and allow it to cool before drinking. Enjoy 2-3 cups daily for best results.
8. Calendula
Calendula tea, made from the petals of the marigold flower, contains anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that regulate sebum production, combating oily skin.
This herbal tea's antioxidants protect skin cells from damage, promoting cell regeneration and maintaining the skin's natural balance. Moreover, calendula tea's skin-nourishing properties soothe irritation and reduce redness, providing relief for those with acne-prone or oily skin. By consuming calendula tea, individuals harness its skin-enhancing benefits, as the body receives potent compounds that encourage skin health and reduce sebum levels, diminishing the appearance of oily skin.
Finally, this tea's regular consumption complements topical skincare routines, enhancing the overall efficacy of the routine's products.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in calendula tea that help with oily skin.
- Flowers: The calendula flowers contain potent antioxidants and are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, making them an ideal addition to medicinal tea for oily skin.
- Leaves: Calendula leaves are rich in flavonoids, offering astringent qualities that help balance sebum production in oily skin.
- Stems: Although less potent than the flowers or leaves, calendula stems still contain medicinal properties, mildly contributing to the soothing effect of the tea for oily skin.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in calendula tea that aid with oily skin.
- Flavonoids: These antioxidants help reduce inflammation and tighten skin pores, preventing excess oil production.
- Saponins: These natural soaps help cleanse oily skin by removing dirt and excess sebum, without causing dryness.
- Carotenoids: Acting as antioxidants, they protect the skin from free radicals, promote skin cell turnover, and regulate sebum production.
- Polysaccharides: They have a soothing effect on the skin, help maintain the skin's natural moisture balance, and reduce oiliness.
- Volatile oils: They possess antimicrobial properties that help control bacterial growth, reducing the risk of acne and skin infections.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds help in wound healing, reducing inflammation, and regulating sebum production.
- Sterols: They exhibit anti-inflammatory and emollient qualities, soothing the skin and controlling excessive oil secretion.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic calendula tea for oily skin.
- Infuse 1-2 teaspoons of dried calendula flowers in 8 ounces of boiling water for 10 minutes.
- Strain the mixture to remove the flowers, leaving only the tea.
- Allow the tea to cool down to a comfortable temperature.
- Apply the cooled tea to your face with a cotton ball, avoiding the eye area.
- Let the tea dry on your skin for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off with warm water.
9. Burdock
Burdock tea provides a natural solution for oily skin due to its potent detoxifying properties.
This herbal tea comes from the burdock root, which contains essential compounds that purge the skin of excess oil and impurities. As a natural astringent, burdock tea tightens the skin, reducing the appearance of pores and controlling excessive oil production. Its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial qualities soothe irritations and help prevent acne, resulting in a more balanced, matte complexion.
Furthermore, burdock tea offers abundant antioxidants that stimulate skin cell regeneration, promoting a youthful, refreshed appearance.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in burdock tea that help with oily skin.
- Roots: Burdock roots are rich in fatty oils and plant compounds that help regulate sebum production in the skin, making them ideal for medicinal tea to address oily skin.
- Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes of burdock contain essential nutrients and antioxidants that support skin health, reducing excess oil and promoting a balanced complexion.
- Leaves: Burdock leaves are a potent source of tannins and flavonoids, which have astringent properties that help control oil production and soothe irritated skin.
- Flowers: The flowers of burdock are known for their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which can help reduce redness and irritation associated with oily skin.
- Seeds: Burdock seeds are rich in fatty acids, which provide moisturizing and nourishing benefits to the skin, while also balancing oil production.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in burdock tea that aid with oily skin.
- Tannins: These are astringent and help to reduce excessive oiliness by constricting pores and decreasing sebum production.
- Polyphenols: They exhibit anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which can alleviate skin inflammation and reduce acne caused by oily skin.
- Fatty acids: Burdock tea contains essential fatty acids that help to maintain the skin's natural lipid barrier, preventing excessive oil production and improving overall skin health.
- Vitamin E: This is an antioxidant that can help to protect the skin from free radicals, reducing damage caused by environmental factors that can contribute to oily skin.
- Sterols: Sterols found in burdock tea provide emollient and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe oily and irritated skin.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic burdock tea for oily skin.
- Chop 2 tablespoons of dried burdock root into small pieces and rinse under cold water.
- Place the chopped burdock root in a pot and add 2 cups of water, bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the burdock root solids.
- Let the tea cool down to a drinkable temperature before consuming.
10. Red Clover
Red clover tea contains isoflavones, which possess estrogenic properties that regulate sebum production in the skin.
This tea's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds, such as tocopherol and sitosterol, reduce skin inflammation and fight free radicals that cause skin damage. The tea's cleansing properties help remove impurities from clogged pores, preventing further skin irritations. Regular consumption of red clover tea promotes overall skin health by improving circulation and delivering essential nutrients to the skin cells.
Consequently, red clover tea effectively combats oily skin by controlling sebum production, reducing inflammation, and cleansing impurities.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in red clover tea that help with oily skin.
- Flowers: Rich in isoflavones, the flowers help balance hormones promoting healthy skin.
- Seeds: Packed with fatty acids, they support skin hydration and natural oil regulation.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in red clover tea that aid with oily skin.
- Isoflavones: These are plant-based compounds that have estrogen-like properties. They can help regulate the production of sebum, reducing oiliness in the skin.
- Salicylic Acid: This compound is a type of phenolic acid. It has exfoliating properties, helping to remove dead skin cells and excess oil from the skin's surface.
- Rosmarinic Acid: This is a type of antioxidant. It can help reduce inflammation and may help control the production of sebum in the skin.
- Campesterol: This is a type of plant sterol. It has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and swelling associated with oily skin.
- Quercetin: This is a type of flavonoid. It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce skin irritation and improve overall skin health.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic red clover tea for oily skin.
- In a stove-top pot, combine 2 cups of water and 2 tablespoons of dried red clover flowers, then bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes to allow the nutrients to infuse.
- Strain the tea to remove the flowers, then let it cool down to a drinkable temperature.
- Optionally, add a squeeze of lemon or a small amount of honey for flavor.
- Drink 1-2 cups of this tea daily for best results in maintaining balanced, clear skin.
What is oily skin and how can it affect your life?
Oily skin is a condition characterized by an excess production of sebum, resulting in a shiny, greasy appearance.
This excess oil can lead to clogged pores and acne breakouts, lowering self-confidence and causing distress in social situations.
Oily skin impacts people's lives significantly, often leading to time-consuming and costly skincare routines and a constant need to blot or wash oily skin throughout the day.
What other natural remedies help with oily skin?
For individuals with oily skin, several natural remedies consistently prove effective.
First, a honey and cinnamon face mask regulates sebum production while providing antibacterial benefits. Simply mix two tablespoons of honey with one teaspoon of cinnamon, apply to the face, and rinse after 10-15 minutes. Second, diluted apple cider vinegar functions as a natural toner, balancing the skin's pH levels and tightening pores.
Combine one part apple cider vinegar with two parts water and apply with a cotton ball, avoiding the eye area. Lastly, incorporating oils such as jojoba, tea tree, or rosehip into a skincare routine can actually reduce oiliness. These oils mimic the skin's natural sebum, signaling the skin to produce less oil. Apply a few drops of the chosen oil to damp skin after cleansing.
Always perform a patch test before applying a new product to the face.