By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 19, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Oily Skin
Herbal creams for oily skin are specially formulated topical treatments that help to regulate excess oil production and reduce acne, blackheads, and other skin issues associated with oily skin.
These creams typically contain natural ingredients such as aloe vera, tea tree oil, and chamomile, which have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
Examples include creams containing neem, turmeric, and green tea, which can improve skin texture and reduce oiliness, allowing individuals to feel more confident and comfortable in their own skin.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for oily skin, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Melaleuca alternifolia
- 2. Lavandula angustifolia
- 3. Aloe vera
- 4. Camellia sinensis
- 5. Zingiber officinale
- 6. Calendula officinalis
- 7. Serenoa repens
- 8. Matricaria chamomilla
- 9. Rosmarinus officinalis
- 10. Eucalyptus globulus
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for oily skin?
- What ailments similar to oily skin are treated with herbal creams?
1. Melaleuca alternifolia
Melaleuca alternifolia, also known as tea tree, creams helps with oily skin because of its natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
The active compound, terpinen-4-ol, helps to reduce acne-causing bacteria and inflammation, thereby preventing clogged pores and excessive oil production. Additionally, tea tree oil has astringent properties that help to balance the skin's natural pH, reducing oiliness and leaving the skin feeling clean and refreshed.
As a result, it can help to regulate oil production and improve overall skin health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melaleuca alternifolia creams that help with oily skin.
- Cineole: It helps reduce oil production and inflammation, thereby controlling sebum levels and minimizing acne.
- Limonene: It has astringent and antiseptic properties that help balance the skin's pH, reduce oiliness, and minimize the appearance of pores.
- Caryophyllene oxide: It exhibits anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities, which help soothe and calm oily skin, reducing redness and preventing infections.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make creams for oily skin.
- Leaves: The leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia, also known as tea tree oil, are commonly used in creams for oily skin because of their antimicrobial and antifungal properties that help control oil production and reduce acne.
- Barks: The barks of Melaleuca alternifolia are used to make creams for oily skin due to their antiseptic properties that help to reduce inflammation and prevent the growth of bacteria that can cause acne.
- Seeds: The seeds of Melaleuca alternifolia are sometimes used to make creams for oily skin because of their astringent properties that help to dry up excess oil and reduce the appearance of pores.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for oily skin.
- Harvest 100g of melaleuca alternifolia leaves in the early morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Mix the harvested leaves with 500ml of distilled water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes then let it cool for 1 hour.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean bowl to remove the solids.
- Add 50g of beeswax and 20g of coconut oil to the liquid and heat gently until melted.
2. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, creams helps with oily skin because of its unique astringent and balancing properties.
The antiseptic and antifungal properties in lavender help to reduce inflammation and purify the pores, minimizing oil production. Additionally, its dehydrating effect helps to regulate sebum production, leaving the skin feeling smoother and looking more even-toned.
The calming and soothing properties of lavender also help to reduce stress, a common contributor to oily skin, making it an effective and natural solution for achieving balanced skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia creams that help with oily skin.
- Linalool: Helps reduce sebum production by inhibiting the activity of sebaceous glands, thereby controlling oil secretion and preventing clogged pores.
- Linalyl acetate: Possesses anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and calm the skin, reducing redness and irritation associated with oily skin, and promoting a balanced skin pH.
- Caffeic acid: Exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities that help reduce oxidative stress, inflammation, and bacteria growth on the skin, all of which contribute to oily skin conditions.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make creams for oily skin.
- Leaves: Rich in antioxidants that help balance skin pH and reduce sebum production.
- Flowers: Known for their antiseptic and antifungal properties, which help control oil production and prevent acne.
- Stems: Contain flavonoids that help regulate sebum production and soothe irritated skin.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for oily skin.
- Gather 10-20 dried lavandula angustifolia flowers and 50g of distilled water for infusion.
- Infuse the flowers in the distilled water for 10 minutes under medium heat.
- Strain the mixture to obtain 20g of lavandula angustifolia infusion and discard the solids.
- Combine 100g of shea butter and 50g of beeswax in a double boiler.
- Emulsify the mixture by slowly adding 50g of cooled lavandula angustifolia infusion to 50g of sweet almond oil.
3. Aloe vera
Aloe vera, also known as aloe, creams helps with oily skin because of its unique properties that balance and regulate the skin's natural oil production.
The gel inside aloe vera contains anti-inflammatory and antibacterial compounds that soothe and calm the skin, reducing inflammation and redness. Additionally, aloe vera has natural astringent properties that help to tighten pores, reducing the appearance of oily skin and preventing clogged pores. This makes aloe vera creams an effective natural remedy for oily skin.
Regular use can lead to a more balanced skin tone and reduced oil production.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera creams that help with oily skin.
- Aloin: Aloin is a natural anthraquinone glycoside that has astringent properties, which help to reduce the production of sebum and minimize oiliness on the skin.
- Aloe-emodin: Aloe-emodin is a lignan derivative that has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which help to control acne and prevent clogged pores that can lead to oily skin.
- Saponins: Saponins are a type of triterpene that have surfactant properties, which help to emulsify oils and reduce their viscosity, thereby minimizing the appearance of oily skin.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make creams for oily skin.
- Leaves: Aloe vera leaves are rich in aloe-emodin, which helps to control oil production and reduce acne.
- Gel from leaves: The gel inside the leaves has anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe and calm oily skin.
- Juice from leaves: The juice from the leaves has been found to reduce sebum production, making it effective in controlling oily skin.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for oily skin.
- Weigh out 50 grams of aloe vera gel and 20 grams of beeswax in a small saucepan.
- Melt the beeswax in low heat over 10 minutes while stirring occasionally with a spatula.
- Add 20 grams of coconut oil and 10 grams of shea butter to the melted beeswax mixture.
- Stir in 10 grams of vitamin e oil and 5 grams of essential oil over 5 minutes.
- Pour the cooled mixture into a container and refrigerate for 30 minutes before use.
4. Camellia sinensis
Camellia sinensis, also known as tea, creams helps with oily skin because of its unique properties that balance skin oil production.
Rich in antioxidants and fatty acids, these creams help to regulate the skin's natural oil barrier, reducing excess sebum production and minimizing pores. The anti-inflammatory properties of Camellia sinensis also soothe and calm the skin, reducing redness and irritation, resulting in a smoother, more even complexion that appears less oily and more radiant.
Regular use can lead to a balanced and healthy-looking complexion.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Camellia sinensis creams that help with oily skin.
- Catechins: These polyphenolic compounds help regulate sebum production, reducing the oiliness of the skin.
- Theaflavins: These flavonoids have been shown to inhibit the activity of 5-alpha-reductase, an enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that can contribute to oily skin.
- Gallic acid: This phenolic acid has been found to possess anti-inflammatory and astringent properties, which can help to reduce the appearance of pores and control excess oil production.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea used to make creams for oily skin.
- Leaves: They are rich in tannins and catechins, which help to reduce oil production and balance the skin's natural pH, making them suitable for creams for oily skin.
- Flowers: They contain anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe and calm oily skin, reducing redness and irritation.
- Leaves: They also have astringent properties that help to tighten pores, reducing oiliness and giving the skin a smoother appearance.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea for oily skin.
- Harvest 1 cup of camellia sinensis leaves by hand to ensure maximum quality and freshness.
- Dry the harvested leaves in a single layer for 2-3 hours at 150°f to remove moisture.
- Steep 1 cup of dried camellia sinensis leaves in 2 cups of hot water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the camellia sinensis infusion through a cheesecloth or fine mesh to remove solids immediately.
- Mix 1/2 cup of the camellia sinensis infusion with 1/2 cup of distilled water and 1/4 cup of emulsifying wax in a double boiler.
5. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, creams helps with oily skin because of its natural astringent and antiseptic properties.
The active compounds present in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, help to balance the skin's pH levels and reduce oil production. Additionally, ginger's anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing redness and irritation associated with oily skin.
This results in a clearer, more balanced complexion and a reduction in the appearance of pores.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale creams that help with oily skin.
- Zingiberene: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory and astringent properties, helping to reduce oil production and minimize pores on oily skin.
- Gingerols: These phenolic compounds have antibacterial and antifungal properties, inhibiting the growth of acne-causing bacteria and reducing inflammation associated with oily skin.
- Shogaol: This ginger-derived compound has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to soothe and calm the skin, reduce oil production, and prevent oxidative damage associated with oily skin.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make creams for oily skin.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are used because they contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help to reduce redness and soothe oily skin.
- Roots: Roots are used because they contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that help to balance the skin's pH and reduce oil production.
- Leaves: Leaves are used because they contain antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that help to clean and calm oily skin.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for oily skin.
- Harvest 100-200 grams of fresh zingiber officinale rhizomes from a trusted supplier or local market.
- Grate the rhizomes into a fine paste using a microplane grater or sharp knife for 5 minutes.
- Combine 100 grams of distilled water and 20 grams of glycerin in a saucepan and heat for 10 minutes.
- Mix 5 grams of beeswax and 5 grams of candelilla wax in a double boiler and melt for 10 minutes.
- Combine the grated rhizome paste, wax mixture, and water mixture in a blending bowl and blend for 5 minutes.
6. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with oily skin because of its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
It soothes and calms the skin, reducing redness and irritation often associated with oily skin. Calendula's ability to balance the skin's pH level and promote a healthy skin environment helps to regulate sebum production, reducing the appearance of pores and preventing clogged skin.
This natural remedy promotes a clearer and more balanced complexion, ideal for those struggling with oily skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with oily skin.
- Sesquiterpenes: These compounds help reduce sebum production, thereby decreasing the appearance of oily skin.
- Flavonoids: These plant-based antioxidants help regulate oil production, reduce inflammation, and prevent clogged pores, contributing to a healthier skin balance.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds have been shown to possess antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help combat acne-causing bacteria and reduce redness associated with oily skin.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for oily skin.
- Flowers: Used for their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties to soothe and calm oily skin.
- Leaves: Used for their astringent properties to help reduce oil production and minimize pores.
- Seeds: Not used but it is used in the form of oil which is used for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties in creams for oily skin
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for oily skin.
- Harvest calendula officinalis flowers when they are in full bloom and dry them thoroughly.
- Mix 30g of dried calendula flowers with 100ml of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place to allow for infusion.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass container.
- Whip the oil with 10g of beeswax and 10g of shea butter to create a smooth and creamy texture.
7. Serenoa repens
Serenoa repens, also known as saw palmetto, creams helps with oily skin because of its unique ability to regulate and balance sebum production.
The extract from the saw palmetto plant has natural anti-androgen properties, which help to reduce the production of excess oil in the skin.
This leads to a reduction in the appearance of large pores, a decrease in the severity of acne breakouts, and an overall improvement in skin texture and tone, leaving skin looking smoother and more balanced.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Serenoa repens creams that help with oily skin.
- Phenolic acids: Help regulate sebum production, reducing the appearance of oily skin and potentially preventing acne.
- Iridoid glycosides: Act as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, which can help balance the skin's natural oil production and reduce inflammation associated with oily skin.
- Terpenoids: Exhibit antimicrobial properties, which can help control the growth of bacteria on the skin, reducing the occurrence of acne and other skin issues associated with oily skin.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of saw palmetto used to make creams for oily skin.
- Leaves: Used due to their astringent properties that help to reduce oil production and balance skin pH.
- Rhyzomes: Utilized for their ability to control sebum production and reduce inflammation, making them suitable for oily skin conditions.
- Roots: Employed for their anti-inflammatory and astringent properties, which can help to regulate oil production and soothe irritated skin.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic saw palmetto for oily skin.
- Gather 500 grams of dried serenoa repens root powder, 200 grams of beeswax, 200 grams of coconut oil, and 100 grams of shea butter.
- Melt the coconut oil and shea butter in a double boiler at 160-180 degrees fahrenheit for 30 minutes.
- Combine the melted mixture with the dried serenoa repens root powder and stir for 10 minutes to create a uniform blend.
- Add the beeswax to the mixture and continue heating until the beeswax is fully incorporated and the mixture reaches 180-190 degrees fahrenheit.
- Remove the mixture from the heat and pour it into a mold to cool and solidify for 60 minutes.
8. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, creams helps with oily skin because of its soothing and balancing properties.
The anti-inflammatory compounds present in chamomile help to reduce redness and irritation associated with oily skin. Additionally, chamomile's astringent properties help to regulate the skin's natural oil production, leaving the skin looking clearer and more balanced. Its moisturizing properties also help to hydrate the skin without clogging pores, making it an effective ingredient for oily skin types.
This helps to reduce the appearance of acne and blemishes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla creams that help with oily skin.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce redness and soothe irritated skin, thereby controlling oil production and preventing clogged pores.
- Chamazulene: This sesquiterpene has strong anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce inflammation and prevent bacterial growth on the skin, thereby reducing oil production and preventing acne.
- Alpha-bisabolol: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce redness and irritation, thereby controlling oil production and preventing clogged pores.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make creams for oily skin.
- Flowers: Matricaria chamomilla flowers are used to make creams for oily skin because they contain anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help calm and balance the skin.
- Leaves: Matricaria chamomilla leaves are used to make creams for oily skin because they possess astringent properties that help reduce oil production and purify the skin.
- Seeds: Matricaria chamomilla seeds are used to make creams for oily skin because they contain antiseptic and anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce acne and soothe the skin.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for oily skin.
- Harvest 30-50 grams of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers from a reliable source and store them in an airtight container.
- Mix 10 grams of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers with 20 grams of jojoba oil in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture at a temperature of 60-70°c for 30 minutes while stirring occasionally with a spatula.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean container and discard the solids.
- Allow the mixture to cool and thicken before transferring it to a glass jar for storage.
9. Rosmarinus officinalis
Rosmarinus officinalis, also known as rosemary, creams helps with oily skin because of its astringent and antiseptic properties.
The herb's essential oils, such as camphor and borneol, help to reduce the production of sebum, thereby controlling oil secretion. Additionally, rosemary's anti-inflammatory properties soothe and calm the skin, reducing redness and irritation associated with oily skin. This natural remedy also helps to balance the skin's pH, promoting a healthy and balanced complexion.
As a result, rosemary creams can be an effective and natural solution for managing oily skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosmarinus officinalis creams that help with oily skin.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound, rosmarinic acid helps with oily skin by its ability to inhibit the production of sebum, thereby reducing the appearance of oiliness.
- Carnosic acid: A phenolic diterpene, carnosic acid helps with oily skin by its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce inflammation and prevent further sebum production.
- Rosmaritol: A diterpene, rosmaritol helps with oily skin by its ability to reduce the expression of genes involved in sebum production, thus minimizing the symptoms of oily skin.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of rosemary used to make creams for oily skin.
- Leaves: Their astringent and antiseptic properties help to balance the skin's pH and reduce oil production.
- Stems: They contain compounds that help to tighten pores and reduce sebum secretion, making them effective in controlling oily skin.
- Roots: Although less commonly used, Rosemary roots are also rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and regulate oily skin.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary for oily skin.
- Infuse dried rosmarinus officinalis leaves in a carrier oil like sweet almond oil for about 4 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container to remove the solid rosmarinus officinalis leaves.
- Weigh out 10% of the infused oil's weight in beeswax and melt it in a double boiler with a gentle heat.
- Gradually mix the melted beeswax with the infused oil in a 10 to 1 ratio by weight and stir well to combine.
- Pour the hot herbal oil mixture into small tin containers and let it cool and solidify completely before use.
10. Eucalyptus globulus
Eucalyptus globulus, also known as Tasmanian blue gum, creams helps with oily skin because of its natural astringent and anti-inflammatory properties.
The menthol content in Eucalyptus globulus reduces the production of sebum, thereby minimizing oiliness and controlling pores. Additionally, its decongestant properties help to reduce inflammation and calm the skin, reducing the appearance of acne and other oily skin-related issues.
This makes Eucalyptus globulus creams an effective solution for individuals struggling with oily skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eucalyptus globulus creams that help with oily skin.
- Cineole: This terpene has astringent and antiseptic properties that help to reduce sebum production, thereby controlling oily skin.
- Catechins: These phenolic compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing the appearance of oily skin.
- Α-pinene: This terpene has astringent properties that help to reduce oil production, while also exhibiting antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effects to control skin irritations and blemishes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make creams for oily skin.
- Leaves: Eucalyptus leaves are commonly used due to their astringent and antiseptic properties, which help to reduce oil production and purify the skin.
- Barks: Eucalyptus bark is often used for its ability to help regulate oil production and reduce inflammation, making it beneficial for oily skin.
- Essential oil from leaves: Although 'leaves' was the first item listed, the essential oil derived from leaves is also a popular choice for its decongestant and astringent properties, helping to reduce oiliness and tighten pores.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for oily skin.
- Combine 500ml of distilled water with 100g of dried eucalyptus globulus leaves in a double boiler.
- Simmer the mixture for 30 minutes then strain it through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter.
- Add 200g of beeswax and 100g of coconut oil to the infused water in a heatproof bowl.
- Stir the mixture over low heat until the beeswax and coconut oil are fully dissolved and the mixture cools to around 40 degrees celsius.
- Pour the mixture into small containers and allow it to cool and solidify completely before use.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for oily skin?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with oily skin is a blend of Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera creams.
Tea Tree Oil has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help to control acne and reduce oil production. Aloe Vera, on the other hand, soothes and calms the skin, reducing redness and inflammation. When combined, these creams provide a balanced and non-greasy solution to manage oily skin, promoting a healthier and more even complexion.
This duo is a natural and effective way to control oiliness and prevent breakouts.
What ailments similar to oily skin are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to oily skin that are treated with herbal creams are acne, rosacea, and eczema.
These conditions often exhibit symptoms such as inflammation, redness, and irritation, which herbal creams can help soothe and calm.
Herbal ingredients like tea tree oil, aloe vera, and chamomile are commonly used in these creams to reduce inflammation, kill bacteria, and promote healing.