A Naturopathic Guide to Oily & Combination Skin

Oily and combination skin types can be challenging to manage. They’re often characterised by an oily T-zone (forehead, nose and chin), enlarged pores, shine, blackheads and breakouts - while the cheeks and under-eyes may feel normal or dry. This mixed presentation makes a one-size-fits-all approach ineffective.

From a naturopathic perspective, oily skin isn’t something to aggressively strip or dry out. Excess oil is often the skin’s response to dehydration, irritation or internal imbalance. When the skin barrier is supported with gentle botanicals and lightweight hydration, oil production can naturally rebalance, congestion reduces and the complexion becomes clearer and calmer.

Why Balance Is Key for Oily & Combination Skin

Excess oil is frequently triggered by harsh skincare habits. Over-cleansing, alcohol-based toners and aggressive exfoliation can all disrupt the skin barrier, prompting sebaceous glands to produce even more oil.

A balanced routine focuses on:

• Gently clearing pores without stripping

• Reducing acne-causing bacteria

• Calming inflammation

• Delivering lightweight, non-comedogenic hydration

What Oily Skin Can Signal Internally

Persistent oiliness or congestion is often influenced by internal factors, not just topical care.

Common contributors include:

Dehydration
Even mild dehydration can trigger increased oil production as the skin attempts to protect itself.

Blood sugar imbalance
Frequent spikes in blood sugar can stimulate hormones linked to excess sebum and breakouts.

Hormonal fluctuations
Elevated androgens may overstimulate oil glands, commonly affecting the jawline, chin and T-zone.

Gut and liver congestion
When digestion or detoxification pathways are under strain, the skin may reflect this through congestion and oiliness.

Chronic inflammation or stress
Ongoing stress and poor sleep elevate inflammatory markers that often show up as acne and enlarged pores.

Holistic Diet & Lifestyle Tips for Balancing Oil Production

Supporting oily and combination skin starts from within.

Include healthy plant-based fats daily
Avocado, olive oil, nuts and seeds support hormonal balance and help maintain a healthy skin barrier. Diets too low in fat can worsen oil imbalance.

Stabilise blood sugar
Include fibre, plant protein and healthy fats at each meal to help regulate insulin and reduce oil fluctuations.

Support zinc intake
Pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, chickpeas and lentils provide zinc, which supports oil regulation and skin repair.

Nurture gut health
Fermented plant foods such as sauerkraut, kimchi, miso and coconut yoghurt support the microbiome and help reduce congestion. Skin + Gut Renew Powder is designed to nourish the gut microbiome, support digestion and reduce inflammation that may show up on the skin.

Manage stress and prioritise sleep
Consistent stress elevates cortisol, which can increase oil production. Gentle movement, breathwork and quality sleep support hormonal balance.

Stage 1: Clear Congestion & Calm Inflammation

Gently Unclog Pores

Cleanse morning and night using a mild, emulsion-style cleanser that purifies without stripping.

Belle Frais Cleansing Milk gently unclogs pores with Salicylic Acid while Coconut Oil and fruit extracts support hydration and calm breakouts.

Naturopath tip: Tight skin after cleansing is a sign the barrier has been compromised.

Stage 2: Hydrate, Balance & Prevent Breakouts

Hydrate Without Clogging

Skipping moisturiser can worsen oiliness.

Vanilla Silk Lotion delivers lightweight nourishment with Camellia Seed Oil, Cocoa and Shea Butter. For added hydration and antioxidant support, layer with Exotic Goddess Ageless Serum.

Balance Sebum Overnight

Overnight care supports skin repair.

Sleeping Beauty Purifying Mousse uses Australian Pink Clay and Volcanic Zeolite to purify pores and reduce oily T-zones, while Avocado Oil helps regulate sebum activity.

Target Congestion

Spot-treating prevents overloading the skin.

Turmeric Brightening Serum helps calm breakouts, reduce redness and support clearer skin overnight.

Exfoliate Gently

Over-exfoliation worsens oiliness and congestion.

Use Desert Lime Flawless Micro Exfoliant or Radiance Enzyme Peel 1–2 times weekly to keep pores clear while preserving the skin barrier.

Ingredients to Avoid for Oily & Combination Skin

Some “oil-control” ingredients can worsen the problem.

Avoid:

• Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLS)

• Synthetic fragrance

• Mineral oil

• Alcohol

• Silicones

• Harsh preservatives such as parabens and ethylhexanol

Choose skin-friendly preservation systems like Sodium Anisate and Sodium Levulinate to maintain balance without irritation.

The Naturopathic Takeaway

Oily and combination skin thrives on balance, not restriction. When hydration, inflammation and internal health are supported, oil production can normalise naturally.

By combining gentle, botanical skincare with supportive diet and lifestyle habits, oily and combination skin can become clearer, calmer and more resilient long-term.