15 Easy Homemade Face Packs For Oily And Acne-Prone Skin

DIY face packs you can quickly whip up to soothe the inflammation and discomfort caused by acne.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Zeel Gandhi, BAMS Dr. Zeel Gandhi Dr. Zeel GandhiBAMS linkedin_icon
Written by Ramona Sinha, MA (English Literature) Ramona Sinha MA (English Literature) linkedin_icon Experience: 11 years
Edited by Eshna Das, BA, MSc Eshna Das BA, MSc linkedin_icon Experience: 3 years
Fact-checked by Krati Darak, MBA, Certified Skin Care Coach Krati Darak MBA, Certified Skin Care Coach linkedin_icon Experience: 3 years
Last Updated on
✔ Evidence Based

StyleCraze believes in credibility and giving our readers access to authentic and evidence-based content. Our stringent editorial guidelines allow us to only cite from reputed research institutions, academic journals, and medically established studies. If you discover any discrepancy in our content, you may contact us.

Are you looking for face packs that may help manage acne and dark spots? Well, you have come to the right place. A DIY face pack for oily and acne-prone skin might effectively get rid of this skin issue.

It is difficult to take care of oily skin because you are trying to address numerous concerns at once – abundant sebumi  Oily, sticky material produced by the sebaceous glands that moisturizes and defends the skin. , clogged pores, greasiness, whiteheads, blackheads, and breakouts. While you will not be able to eliminate these problems immediately, you can minimize them with the help of a few readily available substances in your kitchen. This article has compiled a list of useful face mask recipes for oily and acne-prone skin. Take a look at them.

protip_icon Did You Know?
Eating oily foods will not cause acne. But such foods can aggravate existing acne.

What Causes Acne On The Face?

Causes of acne on the face
Image: Created with Dall.E

Acne vulgaris is a common skin condition that affects approximately 50 million people in the US annually (1). It is a result of clogged hair follicles and pores on the skin. The following factors may contribute to it (2):

  • Excessive sebum production
  • Bacterial infection
  • Increase in testosterone levels
  • Hormonal imbalance in women during menstruation, pregnancy, or conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
  • Unsuitable ingredients in skin care and makeup products
  • Side effects of medications
  • A high glycemic diet
  • Smoking

While severe cases of acne require medical treatment, you may use some nourishing DIY face masks to promote healthy healing of your skin on your own. The following section provides some of them.

Best Face Packs And Masks For Oily And Acne-Prone Skin

1. Honey And Lemon Juice

Honey and lemon juice face packs for acne
Image: Shutterstock

Honey has antimicrobial properties. So, using face packs with honey regularly may help minimize acne (3). Lemon has an astringent effect on your skin which might aid in reducing redness caused by acne spots.

You Will Need

  • 1 tablespoon of honey
  • ½ teaspoon of diluted lemon juice

Method

  1. Mix both ingredients in a small bowl.
  2. Spread the mixture all over the face, focusing on the problem areas.
  3. Leave it on for 15 minutes
  4. Wash off and pat your skin dry.
  5. Repeat 2-3 times a week.

Caution:

Always use diluted lemon juice on the skin and apply sunscreen after using this pack as lemon juice makes your skin photosensitivei  A condition where the skin becomes extremely sensitive to sunlight or other UV light sources and is at risk of burning quickly. .

Irene, a skincare blogger, enthusiastically shares how a lemon and honey mask improved her skin. She writes, “Skin immediately feels smooth and radiates after the rinse off… This facial mask is perfect for dealing with acne flare-ups. Use it twice or 3 times a week will be sufficient (i).”

2. Aloe Vera And Turmeric Face Pack

Both aloe vera and turmeric have anti-inflammatory effects, and both help in reducing acne and keeping the skin healthy

(2), (3).

You Will Need

  • 1 tablespoon of fresh aloe vera pulp
  • ½ teaspoon of turmeric

Method

  1. Blend the aloe vera pulp in a blender.
  2. Pour it in a bowl and mix it with turmeric.
  3. Apply the face pack and leave it on for 15-20 minutes.
  4. Wash it off and pat your skin dry.
  5. Repeat 2-3 times a week.

3. Fuller’s Earth (Multani Mitti) And Rose Water Face Pack

Fuller’s earth is widely known for its oil-absorbing and skin-brightening properties and has an anti-inflammatory effect that helps to remove excess dirt and oil (4). This keeps the skin clean and acne-free. Rosewater has a calming effect on the skin.

You Will Need

  • 1 tablespoon of Multani mitti
  • 1 tablespoon of rose water (adjust the quantity according to your need)

Method

  1. Mix the Multani mitti and rose water in a bowl.
  2. Adjust the consistency and spread it all over your face.
  3. Wait until it dries and then wash off.
  4. Repeat 2 times a week.

protip_icon Did You Know?
Rose water acts as a natural astringent that effectively reduces skin oiliness and helps minimize acne.

4. Turmeric And Honey Face Pack

Turmeric and honey face packs for acne
Image: Shutterstock

Both turmeric and honey have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects on the skin ( 5),(6). These ingredients are widely used in Ayurveda for their healing effects.

You Will Need

Method

  1. Mix the honey and turmeric in a bowl to make a paste.
  2. Apply the paste all over your face or just the problem areas.
  3. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes and then wash it off.
  4. Repeat this 3 times a week.

5. Oatmeal And Honey Face Mask

Oatmeal has anti-inflammatory effects, is rich in antioxidantsi  Compounds or substances that prevent or lessen the effects of free radicals in the body. , and helps in relieving many dermatological conditions (7). Honey has antimicrobial and skin hydration properties that prevent acne and keep the skin healthy and moisturized (6)

You Will Need

  • 1 tablespoon of oats (powdered)
  • 2 tablespoons of organic honey
  • 1 tablespoon of water, rose water, or milk (for mixing the ingredients)

Method

  1. Mix the ingredients in a bowl.
  2. Apply it on your face and neck.
  3. Leave it for 15-20 minutes.
  4. Wash it off with warm water.
  5. Repeat 2-3 times a week.

6. Yogurt And Fuller’s Earth (Multani Mitti) Face Pack

Yogurt contains lactic acidi  A substance created from sugars in milk by specific enzymes that causes milk to ferment and become thicker and more acidic. that helps in skin texture improvement (8). Both ingredients help to keep the skin clean and healthy.

You Will Need

  • 1 tablespoon of Fuller’s earth
  • 2 tablespoons of yogurt

Method

  1. Mix the ingredients in a bowl.
  2. Adjust the quantities (if required) until you get a paste-like consistency
  3. Apply it on your face or the problem areas. Let it dry
  4. Wash it off.
  5. Repeat 2 times a week.

7. Cinnamon And Honey Face Mask

Cinnamon and honey face packs for acne
Image: Shutterstock

Cinnamon (both oil and other extracts) has antibacterial compounds and is effective on Staphylococcus aureus, the acne-causing bacteria (9). Together with honey, it helps to keep the skin clear and reduce inflammation.

You Will Need

  • 1 teaspoon of honey
  • A pinch of cinnamon powder or 1 drop of cinnamon oil

Method

  1. Mix both the ingredients.
  2. Apply it as a spot treatment for acne and pimples.
  3. Let it stay for 5-10 minutes.
  4. Wash it off.
  5. Repeat once a day until the pimples are gone.

Caution:

Cinnamon might cause skin irritation and redness. Do not use it if you have sensitive skin or if you feel discomfort.

8. Tea Tree Oil And Clay Face Mask

Tea tree oil is known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties (10). Along with the clay, it helps control excess sebum production and reduces acne.

You Will Need

  • 1-2 tablespoons of clay (Multani mitti, Bentonite clay, or any other clay)
  • 2-3 drops of tea tree oil
  • 2-3 tablespoons of water or rose water (for mixing purpose)

Method

  1. Mix the clay and water or rosewater in a bowl. Adjust the consistency as per your convenience.
  2. Add the tea tree oil to the paste and mix well.
  3. Apply the mixture on your face or just the problem areas. Let it dry.
  4. Wash it off.
  5. Repeat 2-3 times a week.

9. Witch Hazel And Clay Mask

Witch hazel and clay face packs for acne
Image: Shutterstock

Witch hazel has astringent properties and exhibits anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects (11). This face mask for oily skin helps to keep your skin clean and reduce oiliness and acne.

You Will Need

  • 1-2 tablespoons of clay (use any clay of your choice)
  • 1 tablespoon of witch hazel
  • 1 tablespoon of water or rosewater

Method

  1. Mix the clay with witch hazel and add water or rosewater until you get a paste-like consistency.
  2. Spread it all over your face and leave it to dry.
  3. Wash off once it dries.
  4. Repeat 2-3 times a week.

10. Egg White, Lemon, And Tea Tree Oil Face Mask

Tea tree oil has antibacterial effects and helps to reduce acne (12). Egg whites have a tightening effect that may aid skin firming. Proponents of this face mask claim that applying egg white and lemon on the face can help remove excess oil.

You Will Need

  • 1 egg white
  • ½ teaspoon of diluted lemon juice
  • 2 drops of tea tree oil

Method

  1. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly.
  2. Using a brush, apply a thin layer on your face.
  3. Let it dry.
  4. Wash it off with warm water.
  5. Repeat this 2 times a week.

11. Gram Flour And Yogurt Face Mask

Gram flour helps to reduce oiliness and pimples. Along with yogurt, it can brighten the skin tone and aid in skin rejuvenation.

You Will Need

  • 1-2 tablespoons of gram flour or besan
  • 1-2 tablespoons of yogurt

Method

  1. Mix the gram flour with yogurt in a bowl.
  2. Once you get a smooth paste, apply it all over your face.
  3. Let it dry and then wash it off.
  4. Repeat 2-3 times a day.

12. Bentonite Clay And Apple Cider Vinegar Face Mask

Bentonite clay and apple cider vinegar face packs for acne
Image: Shutterstock

Bentonite clay is often used as a part of traditional remedies. It has a detoxifying effect and protects the skin from damage (13). ACV is said to have an astringent effect on the skin and helps to kill acne-causing bacteria  (14).

You Will Need

  • 1-2 tablespoons of Bentonite clay
  • 1-2 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon water (optional)

Method

  1. Mix the clay with ACV and make a smooth paste.
  2. Mix water if the consistency is not smooth.
  3. Spread the pack evenly on the face.
  4. Let it dry and then wash off.
  5. Repeat 2-3 times a week.

13. Garlic And Honey Face Pack

Although the effect of topical garlic is not studied much, its antioxidant properties can help prevent a lot of skin issues (15). Together with honey, it prevents acne-causing bacteria, keeps the skin clear, and may help with acne scar reduction.

  • 1 teaspoon of garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon of honey

Method

  1. Mix the garlic paste and honey in a bowl.
  2. Apply it on your face and leave it on for 15 minutes.
  3. Wash it off.
  4. Repeat 2-3 times a week.

14. Neem And Turmeric Face Pack

Both neem and turmeric have medicinal properties that aid in skin detox. Neem has antibacterial and antifungal properties and helps to reduce acne (16). Turmeric and neem face packs are ideal for oily skin, as they give you clear, acne-free, and blemish-free skin.

You Will Need

  • 1 tablespoon of neem leaves paste
  • ½ teaspoon of turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon of water (if needed)

Method

  1. Mix all the ingredients and make a paste. You may add water if the paste is too thick.
  2. Spread the mixture on your face.
  3. Leave it for 15-20 minutes or until it dries.
  4. Wash off with water.
  5. Repeat 3 times a week.

15. Activated Charcoal And Aloe Vera Face Mask

Activated charcoal and aloe vera face packs for acne
Image: Shutterstock

Those who use activated charcoal think that it removes all the dirt and excess sebum from the skin and leaves it squeaky clean. Aloe vera possesses excellent exfoliation properties and can even help with dead skin cell removal. This face mask can help you manage excess oil, aid in pore cleansing, and prevent acne.

You Will Need

  • 1 teaspoon of activated charcoal
  • 1-2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel

Method

  1. Mix both the ingredients.
  2. Apply the mixture all over your face.
  3. Leave it for not more than 10 minutes.
  4. Wash off.
  5. Use this once every two weeks. (Regular use of activated charcoal on the face may harm the natural barrier of your skin.

Infographic: Top 5 Anti-Acne Natural Face Packs For Oily Skin

Acne breakouts are a common sight with oily skin. It can be tough to deal with constant flare upsi  A term describing the stage when skin is most irritable, intensely itchy, and possibly sore with a burning sensation. and excess oil production on the face. Thankfully, you can utilize some ingredients in your pantry to take control of these issues. Organic ingredients from your kitchen may reduce potential skin breakouts, aid in sebum control, and lighten dark spots on the face to make it glow again. Check out the infographic below to know which DIY face masks are easy to make, from the pantry for efficient skincare.

Check out the infographic below to know which DIY face masks are easy to make, from the pantry, for radiant skin.

top 5 anti-acne natural face packs for oily skin (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

DIY face packs for acne are a cost-effective and safe way to care for acne and oily skin issues and support skin healing. These DIY packs and home remedies can be highly effective in managing acne and may also help soothe inflammation and redness associated with cystic acne. While they cannot replace medical treatments available for acne, they may provide temporary relief and benefit the skin in other ways. For the best results, regularly pair the recipes mentioned in this article with a good skincare routine to help manage mild to moderate acne, oily skin, greasiness, excess sebum production, and spots. The ingredients are easily available and are best for skin nourishment for those who prefer natural skin care. However, do a patch test before trying any of the remedies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can these face packs replace medical treatments for acne?

No, face packs can help improve skin health, but they should not replace medical treatments for acne. If you have persistent or severe acne, it is best to consult a dermatologist for proper treatment.

Can we use an acne face pack daily?

Dr. Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist, says, “Applying a face pack every day might hurt your skin rather than improve its appearance and feel. Whatever DIY face mask you select, don’t use it more than once a week.”

Is curd good for acne?

“Curd is an acne treatment due to its high zinc and lactic acid content,” says Dr. Chacon.

What precautions should be taken while applying the face pack?

According to Dr. Chacon, “The face pack should not be applied to the face for more than 15 to 20 minutes. Keeping it for an extended period of time may result in the production of wrinkles, sagging skin, and the growth of open pores.”

Is drinking turmeric milk good for acne?

Both oral and topical use of turmeric helps solve skin care issues. So, drinking turmeric milk may help reduce acne (2).

What kind of toothpaste helps acne?

Toothpaste may not always help solve acne issues. It may dry out the skin and worsen the acne.

Can I apply turmeric on my pimples overnight?

Yes. Turmeric is excellent for pimple prevention. You can apply turmeric to your pimples overnight and wash it off the next morning.

Is ginger good for acne?

The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of ginger may help reduce acne inflammation (17). However, do a patch test before you apply it to the affected area.

Key Takeaways

  • Simple kitchen ingredients like honey, turmeric, and aloe vera can help reduce acne.
  • Yogurt and cinnamon possess antibacterial properties that can help fight off acne.
  • Using the charcoal and aloe vera face pack can remove excess sebum and manage acne.
  • Regular use of organic face packs can help improve skin texture and make it glow.


Watch this engaging video for an easy DIY acne face mask. Get rid of acne quickly and achieve glowing skin with this simple home remedy.

Personal Experience: Source

References

Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.

  1. Skin Conditions By The Numbers
    https://www.aad.org/media/stats-numbers#:~:text=Acne
  2. Acne Causes
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/acne/causes/#:~:text=%27Acne
  3. Honey: A Therapeutic Agent for Disorders of the Skin
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5661189/
  4. Effects of Turmeric (Curcuma longa) on Skin Health: A Systematic Review of the Clinical Evidence
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27213821/
  5. Aloe Vera: A Short Review
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2763764/
  6. Preparation of Cost Effective Natural Face Pack for Skin Whitening by Using Natural Ingredients
    http://article.scholarena.com/Preparation-of-Cost-Effective-Natural-Face-Pack-for-Skin-Whitening-by-Using-Natural-Ingredients.pdf
  7. Turmeric, the Golden Spice- From Traditional Medicine to Modern Medicine
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92752/
  8. Honey and Health: A Review of Recent Clinical Research
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5424551////
  9. Oatmeal in dermatology: a brief review
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22421643/
  10. Epidermal and dermal effects of topical lactic acid
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8784274/
  11. Cinnamon: A Multifaceted Medicinal Plant
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4003790/
  12. A review of applications of tea tree oil in dermatology
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22998411/
  13. Antioxidant and potential anti-inflammatory activity of extracts and formulations of white tea, rose, and witch hazel on primary human dermal fibroblast cells
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3214789/
  14. Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea Tree) Oil: a Review of Antimicrobial and Other Medicinal Properties
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1360273/
  15. Bentonite Clay as a Natural Remedy: A Brief Review
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5632318/
  16. Antimicrobial activity of apple cider vinegar against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans; downregulating cytokine and microbial protein expression
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5788933/
  17. Garlic in dermatology
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4211483/
  18. Therapeutics Role of Azadirachta indica (Neem) and Their Active Constituents in Diseases Prevention and Treatment
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4791507/
  19. The Amazing and Mighty Ginger
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92775/
Was this article helpful?
thumbsupthumbsdown
disqus_comment

Community Experiences

Join the conversation and become a part of our empowering community! Share your stories, experiences, and insights to connect with other beauty, lifestyle, and health enthusiasts.

Dr. Zeel Gandhi is an Ayurvedic doctor with 7 years of experience and an expert at providing holistic solutions for health problems encompassing Internal medicine, Panchakarma, Yoga, Ayurvedic Nutrition, and formulations.

Read full bio of Dr. Zeel Gandhi
  • Dr. Anna ChaconMD, FAAD Dr. Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD, is a double board-certified dermatologist with over 7 years of experience. She has authored many peer-reviewed articles and managed clinical research studies during her fellowship. She completed her medical school in the PLME (Program of Liberal Medical Education) at Brown University.
    Dr. Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD, is a double board-certified dermatologist with over 7 years of experience. She has authored many peer-reviewed articles and managed clinical research studies during her fellowship. She completed her medical school in the PLME (Program of Liberal Medical Education) at Brown University.
Ramona Sinha
Ramona is an editor at StyleCraze with 11 years of experience in writing and editing. She has authored over 200 articles on skin and hair care. She graduated from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal, and did her post-graduation from the University of Kalyani, West Bengal.

Read full bio of Ramona Sinha
Eshna Das
Eshna DasAssociate Editor
Eshna is an associate editor and a certified skin care coach. She has over three years of experience, a triple main bachelor’s degree in psychology, English, and journalism from Mount Carmel College, Bengaluru, and a master’s degree in psychology from Sampurna Montfort College, Bengaluru.

Read full bio of Eshna Das
Krati Darak
Krati DarakAssociate Commerce Editor
Krati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of experience in writing and editing for different niches.

Read full bio of Krati Darak
AFS