If you have oily skin, you know the struggle of dealing with excess sebum, clogged pores, and frequent breakouts. While store-bought scrubs may promise clear skin, they often contain harsh chemicals that strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to even more oil production. The best alternative? DIY face scrubs made from natural ingredients that gently exfoliate, unclog pores, and control oil without disrupting your skin's balance. Below, we explore the benefits of exfoliation for oily skin, the right ingredients to use, and some easy homemade face scrub recipes you can whip up in minutes.
01Why a Homemade Face Scrub for Oily Skin is Essential
Oily skin tends to attract more dirt, bacteria, and pollution, making it more prone to blackheads, acne, and an uneven skin texture. Regular exfoliation helps:
- Remove Dead Skin Cells: Prevents buildup that leads to clogged pores and breakouts.
- Control Oil Production: Keeps sebum levels in check without over-drying the skin.
- Refine Pores: Helps minimize the appearance of large pores.
- Improve Absorption of Skincare Products: Allows serums and moisturizers to penetrate better.
02Best Ingredients For a Homemade Scrub for Oily Skin
Not all exfoliating agents are suitable for oily skin. Here are some of the best natural ingredients to use:
- Lemon Juice: Natural astringent that helps control oil and brighten skin.
- Honey: Antibacterial and hydrating, balances the skin.
- Clay (Bentonite or Kaolin): Absorbs excess oil and detoxifies pores.
- Green Tea: Rich in antioxidants that help soothe acne-prone skin.
- Yogurt: Contains lactic acid for gentle exfoliation and oil control.
- Rice Flour: Fine exfoliant that removes excess oil without irritation.
- Oatmeal: Absorbs oil and soothes inflammation.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: A natural toner that helps with oil regulation.
03Best Homemade Face Scrub for Oily Skin: Easy DIY Recipes
1. Green Tea & Rice Flour Scrub (For Oil Control & Glow)

Green tea is packed with antioxidants that reduce inflammation and fight acne, while rice flour gently exfoliates and controls oil.
Ingredients:
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp water
How to Use:
Mix to form a paste, gently scrub your face, and rinse immediately to avoid irritation.
Why It Works:
Baking soda absorbs oil, while lemon juice prevents acne. However, use this scrub only once a week, as baking soda can be harsh if overused.
2. Oatmeal & Yogurt Scrub (For Gentle Exfoliation & Oil Absorption)

Perfect for oily yet sensitive skin, this scrub absorbs oil while keeping the skin hydrated and smooth.
Ingredients:
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp water
How to Use:
Mix to form a paste, gently scrub your face, and rinse immediately to avoid irritation.
Why It Works:
Baking soda absorbs oil, while lemon juice prevents acne. However, use this scrub only once a week, as baking soda can be harsh if overused.
3. Bentonite Clay & Apple Cider Vinegar Scrub (For Deep Cleansing & Pore Refining)

Bentonite clay is excellent at drawing out impurities, and apple cider vinegar acts as a natural toner for oily skin.
Ingredients:
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp water
How to Use:
Mix to form a paste, gently scrub your face, and rinse immediately to avoid irritation.
Why It Works:
Baking soda absorbs oil, while lemon juice prevents acne. However, use this scrub only once a week, as baking soda can be harsh if overused.
4. Coffee & Honey Scrub (For Exfoliation & Brightening)

Coffee grounds act as a natural exfoliant that removes dead skin, while honey ensures that your skin stays hydrated.
Ingredients:
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp water
How to Use:
Mix to form a paste, gently scrub your face, and rinse immediately to avoid irritation.
Why It Works:
Baking soda absorbs oil, while lemon juice prevents acne. However, use this scrub only once a week, as baking soda can be harsh if overused.
5. Orange Peel & Sugar Scrub (For Acne & Oil Control)

Orange peel powder is rich in Vitamin C, which controls oil production and helps prevent acne.
Ingredients:
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp water
How to Use:
Mix to form a paste, gently scrub your face, and rinse immediately to avoid irritation.
Why It Works:
Baking soda absorbs oil, while lemon juice prevents acne. However, use this scrub only once a week, as baking soda can be harsh if overused.
6. Baking Soda & Lemon Scrub (For Deep Cleaning & Oil Balance)

Baking soda is a natural exfoliant that helps control oil and blackheads, while lemon juice acts as an astringent.
Ingredients:
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp water
How to Use:
Mix to form a paste, gently scrub your face, and rinse immediately to avoid irritation.
Why It Works:
Baking soda absorbs oil, while lemon juice prevents acne. However, use this scrub only once a week, as baking soda can be harsh if overused.
04Tips for Using DIY Face Scrubs on Oily Skin
- Don't Over-Exfoliate: Stick to exfoliating 2-3 times a week to avoid stripping your skin.
- Always Moisturize: Even oily skin needs hydration. Use a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer.
- Use Sun Protection: After exfoliating, your skin is more sensitive. Always apply SPF before going outside.
- Patch Test First: If you have sensitive skin, do a patch test before applying any scrub to your face.
Homemade face scrubs are a natural, budget-friendly way to keep oily skin under control without the risks of harsh chemicals. Whether you need deep pore cleansing, acne prevention, or a glow boost, these DIY scrubs can be customized to your skin's needs. Try them out and say goodbye to excessive oil and dull skin—naturally!