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Hair Care Routine for Oily Hair: Top Tips & Best Shampoos (2024)

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hair care routine for oily hairDealing with oily hair? Don’t worry, we’ve got your back!

First, use a purifying shampoo every other day to keep grease at bay. Condition just the ends to avoid weighing down your roots.

Once a week, give your scalp a good scrub with a brush to slough off buildup. Treat yourself to a deep conditioning mask too – it’ll hydrate your hair without adding weight.

In between washes, dry shampoo is your new best friend. Finish with a lightweight hair oil to tame flyaways.

With a little trial and error, you’ll have your oily hair routine down pat. Ready to take control of your locks?

Table Of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • Wash Smartly: Stick to washing your hair every other day with a purifying shampoo to kick the grease away, but condition only the ends to keep those roots from becoming too oily.
  • Shampoo Secrets: Go for clarifying or volumizing shampoos and steer clear of the hydrating ones that could make your scalp greasier than a fast-food burger.
  • Dry Shampoo is Your BFF: Embrace dry shampoo on off days to keep your hair looking fresh and lively—think of it as your secret weapon against oiliness.
  • Scalp TLC: Treat your scalp to gentle exfoliation with a scalp brush and indulge in lightweight leave-in treatments to keep oil at bay without stripping your scalp dry.

Managing Oily Hair

Managing Oily Hair
Managing oily hair might feel like battling a persistent gremlin that’s determined to make your hair look greasy, but understanding its causes can help tame the beast.

From hormones to hair products, many factors can make your scalp go into oil overdrive, so let’s tackle these triggers together with practical solutions.

Understanding the Causes of Oily Hair

Ever wonder why your hair’s oilier than a greasy spoon diner? It’s often due to hormonal changes, diet, and even stress. Genetics plays a role, too.

To master the art of managing oily hair, remember:

  • Hormonal changes affect sebum production.
  • Your diet influences scalp health.
  • Stress can trigger sebaceous glands.
  • Environmental factors add to oily hair.

Identifying the Symptoms of Oily Hair

Dealing with an oily scalp? You’re not alone!

Greasy hair, scalp itchiness, and even dandruff can be telltale signs. Your hair may feel heavy, weighed down, and greasy to the touch.

Seborrheic dermatitis, skin conditions, and genetics can all contribute to excessive oil production.

But don’t worry – there are plenty of ways to manage your oily hair.

Common Triggers of Oily Hair

Spotting those symptoms makes you wonder—what’s causing all that oil?

Common triggers for oily hair include:

  • Stress: It ramps up oil production.
  • Diet: Some foods increase sebum.
  • Genetics: Blame your family tree.
  • Hormones: They love dramatic flair.
  • Environment: City living can worsen it.

A good hair care routine keeps these triggers in check!

Shampooing for Oily Hair

Shampooing for Oily Hair
When your hair looks like it could fry an egg by noon, it’s time to rethink how you shampoo.

Finding the right routine and products can turn that grease trap on your head into glorious, manageable locks that don’t require a hat for every outing, and change your hair into a more desirable state, making it a grease trap.

How Often to Wash Oily Hair

Taming oily hair starts with adjusting your washing frequency.

Wash every other day and gradually try every three days. Train your scalp to produce less oil over time.

Embrace dry shampoo on non-hair-wash days to keep your style fresh.

Experiment with clarifying shampoos and watch how your hair type thrives with this flexible hair care routine!

Choosing the Right Shampoo for Oily Hair

Wondering how to tackle your oily hair?

Start by embracing shampoos labeled with "volumizing" or "clarifying." These generally contain ingredients that help control excess oil without over-drying.

Steer clear of moisturizing or hydrating options, as they might make your scalp greasier.

Consider a sulfate-free shampoo with salicylic acid for a deep clean that supports scalp health.

Thorough Rinsing and Dry Shampoo Techniques

Selecting the right shampoo sets the stage for a brilliant wash. Now, the art of rinsing and applying dry shampoo awaits.

  1. Embrace cool water rinsing tricks for shine. When rinsing your conditioner, use cool water to remove residue and prevent product buildup, as thorough rinsed the conditioner from your hair, remember that using a dime-sized amount 1-2 times per week can help condition without weighing hair down.
  2. Balance dry shampoo frequency – it’s a lifesaver but not a daily need.
  3. Master dry shampoo application for fresh looks without the wash.

Conditioning for Oily Hair

Conditioning for Oily Hair
You’re probably thinking, "Conditioner for oily hair? Really?"

But the trick is to pick a lightweight one and focus on applying it from the mid-lengths to the ends,

which gives your hair the care it needs without turning it into an oil slick.

Selecting a Lightweight Conditioner

How do you find the right lightweight conditioner for your oily hair? Look for formulas with hydrating yet non-greasy ingredients like fatty acids, shea butter, and rice bran oil.

Avoid heavy, creamy conditioners that can weigh down strands. Instead, opt for a lightweight, volumizing formula that nourishes without leaving your hair feeling limp or greasy.

When searching for the right conditioner, consider the principles of managing oily skin, such as balancing skin pH, to find a product that will work in harmony with your hair’s natural balance. Also, keep in mind that just like how certain ingredients like hyaluronic acid provide hydration without clogging pores, you want a conditioner that will nourish your hair without weighing it down.

Ingredient Benefit Example
Fatty Acids Nourishes without heaviness Malin + Goetz Cilantro Conditioner
Shea Butter Adds moisture, softness R+Co Cilantro Conditioner
Rice Bran Oil Volumizing, shine-boosting IGK Extra Love Volume Conditioner

Applying Conditioner From Mid-Lengths to Ends

Imagine breathing new life into your tired strands by applying conditioner from mid-lengths to ends. This technique helps hydrate your hair’s ends while keeping roots grease-free.

  1. Use a leave-in treatment for extra moisture.
  2. Avoid applying conditioner directly to your roots.
  3. Experiment with hair masks for deep conditioning.

Keep those ends happy and healthy!

Top 8 Best Shampoos for Oily Hair

Tired of battling a greasy mane that resembles an oil slick?

The right shampoo can make all the difference, so let’s check out eight that promise to keep your locks fresh and fabulous without breaking a sweat.

1. Garnier Fructis Pure Clean Shampoo

Garnier Fructis Pure Clean PurifyingView On Amazon
Garnier Fructis Pure Clean Shampoo might just be your oily hair savior.

Infused with aloe extract and Vitamins B3 and B6, this shampoo removes up to 100% of residue, leaving your hair feeling fresh without the weight.

It’s paraben, silicone, and cruelty-free, making it a guilt-free choice for eco-conscious consumers.

Though it’s gentle on your scalp and daily-friendly, some users report oily hair or itchiness afterward.

Best For: Those with oily hair seeking a lightweight, residue-free cleanse.

Pros
  • Removes up to 100% of residue
  • Infused with aloe extract and Vitamins B3 and B6
  • Paraben, silicone, and cruelty-free
Cons
  • May cause oily hair or scalp itchiness in some users
  • Not ideal for fine or thinning hair
  • May not be suitable for all hair types

2. K18 Peptide Prep Detox Shampoo

K18 PEPTIDE PREP™ Color-Safe DetoxView On Amazon
Considering a deep cleanse? K18 Peptide Prep Detox Shampoo could be your go-to!

This clarifying shampoo tackles oily hair by removing 99% of product buildup and 95% of sebum, leaving your scalp fresh without stripping natural oils.

With K18’s secret peptide formula, your hair gains strength, making it the perfect prep for their Molecular Repair Leave-in Treatment.

Some might find the price steep, but the results speak volumes. Remember to follow up with a hydrating mask to combat any dryness.

Best For: Those looking for a deep cleanse to remove product buildup and impurities, especially if using K18 Molecular Repair Leave-in Treatment.

Pros
  • Removes 99% of product buildup and 95% of sebum in one wash.
  • Prepares hair for maximum results from K18 Molecular Repair Leave-in Treatment.
  • Formulated to be gentle on hair and scalp.
Cons
  • Can cause dryness for some users.
  • Can be expensive.
  • Scent might not be appealing to all.

3. Kérastase Specifique Balancing Shampoo

KERASTASE Specifique Balancing Shampoo forView On Amazon
Kérastase Specifique Balancing Shampoo can be a game-changer for oily hair.

Its ultra-light formula tackles oily roots and dry ends with finesse. With amino acids and Vitamin B6, it purifies without drying out your strands, leaving you with that irresistible soft shine you’ve always wanted.

Those pesky oily roots will feel rejuvenated, while the ends stay nourished and free-flowing. Just a heads up, though—it’s a bit pricey and may dry your hair slightly. Pair it with a good conditioner for best results!

Best For: Those with oily roots and dry ends seeking volume and shine.

Pros
  • Cleanses and conditions without stripping hair
  • Reduces scalp oiliness and adds volume
  • Leaves hair soft and shiny
Cons
  • May be drying for some hair types
  • Can be pricey
  • Contains sulfates

4. Hairstory New Wash Rich Moisturizing Cream

Hairstory New Wash RICH ExtraView On Amazon
Embrace the innovative charm of Hairstory’s New Wash Rich Moisturizing Cream, which throws traditional shampoos out the window.

No more tangles or harsh detergents—just a creamy concoction that hydrates and gently balances your scalp, even if you’re prone to oily roots.

With natural oils and a color-protecting formula, it’s like your hair’s personal Zen garden, though some might note its quirky scent.

It’s a bit of a splurge, but if eco-friendly hair bliss calls your name, this one’s worth a spin.

Best For: This cream is ideal for those with color-treated, curly, chemically treated, or dry hair who want a gentle, moisturizing alternative to traditional shampoos.

Pros
  • Eliminates the need for separate conditioners, detanglers, and masks.
  • Helps to reduce scalp oil production and frizz.
  • Offers a more natural and gentle cleansing experience.
Cons
  • May have a strong, chemical-like scent.
  • Can be expensive.
  • Packaging is not eco-friendly.

5. Redken Detox Clarifying Shampoo

Redken Detox Hair Cleansing CreamView On Amazon
One of the best clarifying shampoos for oily hair is Redken’s Hair Cleansing Cream (Source).

This silicone-free formula contains AHA fruit acids and a cleansing complex that effectively removes product buildup, excess oil, and pollution residue in just one use.

Massaging it into your scalp helps strengthen the hair cuticle and add shine.

Suitable for all hair types, including color-treated hair, this clarifying shampoo is the perfect reset in your haircare routine.

Use it once a week or as needed to keep your locks looking and feeling their best, and as a perfect addition to your haircare routine.

Best For: This shampoo is best for people with oily hair and scalp, particularly those who use products containing silicones or other occlusive ingredients.

Pros
  • Effectively removes product buildup, excess oil, and pollution residue.
  • Strengthens the hair cuticle and adds shine.
  • Suitable for all hair types, including color-treated hair.
Cons
  • May not be suitable for those with dry hair or scalp.
  • Can be pricey compared to drugstore shampoos.
  • Some users have reported issues with the packaging, including spills and a lack of a seal.

6. Davines Sea Salt Scrub Cleanser

Davines SOLU Sea Salt ScrubView On Amazon
Davines Sea Salt Scrub Cleanser is a hidden gem for taming oily hair.

Packed with sea salt from Trapani, it exfoliates your scalp, removing build-up and impurities with ease, almost like giving your hair a mini-vacation.

Many find it leaves hair clean, soft, and full of texture for longer.

Though the container size might surprise you, rest assured, a little goes a long way.

And hey, a scrub brush could be your new best friend for thicker hair, giving you a mini-vacation.

Best For: Those with oily scalps looking for a refreshing and effective scalp scrub.

Pros
  • Removes build-up and impurities effectively.
  • Leaves hair feeling clean, soft, and textured.
  • A little goes a long way.
Cons
  • Container size may be smaller than expected.
  • Can be expensive.
  • Some customers reported damaged or open packaging.

7. R+Co Television Perfect Hair Shampoo

R+Co Television Perfect Hair ShampooView On Amazon
Imagine your hair achieving the spotlight with R+Co Television Perfect Hair Shampoo.

This gem detoxifies and adds shine, making your hair camera-ready and fresh for days. Its sulfate-free formula is gentle, although some find it pricey.

With a delightful masculine scent, it appeals to many, but a few mightn’t fancy the fragrance.

Ideal for oily hair, it offers volume sans frizz, but be aware of possible dandruff with regular use.

Give it a whirl—you might just find your hair’s perfect co-star!

Best For: Those with oily hair seeking volume and shine.

Pros
  • Detoxifies and adds shine.
  • Sulfate-free and gentle on hair.
  • Offers volume and reduces frizz.
Cons
  • May cause dandruff with regular use.
  • Some users find the price to be high.
  • May not be suitable for all scalp types.

8. Innersense Organic Beauty Natural Shampoo

INNERSENSE Organic Beauty - NaturalView On Amazon
Ever feel like your oily hair is calling the shots? Innersense Organic Beauty Natural Shampoo might just turn the tables.

Crafted with coconut, quinoa, and rice extracts, it gently cleanses while enhancing vibrancy in fine to medium hair (Source).

You’ll love its weightless, silicone-free formula, though if your scalp leans dry, you might need a bit more product.

As reviewers note, it can be drying, yet for those with oily scalps, it’s just what the hair doctor ordered for lush, controlled locks .

Best For: Those with fine to medium, oily hair who are seeking a natural, gentle cleansing shampoo.

Pros
  • Gentle cleansing for oily hair.
  • Enhances vibrancy and adds body.
  • Weightless, silicone-free formula.
Cons
  • May be drying for those with dry scalps.
  • Some users found it overpriced.
  • Some users reported needing to use more than the recommended amount.

Hydrating and Balancing Oily Hair

Hydrating and Balancing Oily Hair
Keeping oily hair under control isn’t just about stripping away the oil; it’s about giving your scalp the hydration it deserves.

You wouldn’t skip moisturizing your skin, so why let your scalp miss out on the love?

The Importance of Hydrating the Scalp

Shifting from shampoos to scalp sanity, hydration is your golden ticket.

Keeping your scalp balanced means embracing these tips:

  1. Use scalp-friendly products like jojoba or coconut oil.
  2. Massage regularly for increased blood flow and relaxation.
  3. Avoid dry scalp myths—overwashing doesn’t help.
  4. Hydrate internally with water and nutrients.

Remember, a happy scalp equals happy hair!

Using a Scalp Brush for Exfoliation

Grabbing a scalp brush feels like treating your scalp to a mini spa day. It exfoliates, removing build-up and dead skin while boosting scalp health.

Opt for soft bristles and pair with DIY scrubs.

This benefits oily or greasy hair and revives your scalp, keeping dandruff and oiliness at bay when used weekly.

Avoiding Excessive Use of Heat and Protective Hairstyles

To avoid further damaging your oily locks, steer clear of excessive heat styling and stick to protective hairstyles.

Instead, opt for heatless options like braids, buns, and loose ponytails that minimize friction and frizz. For added hydration, try keratin-infused products to strengthen strands and seal in moisture.

  • Use a keratin-infused shampoo to repair brittle hair.
  • Apply a keratin spray along with your leave-in to reinforce damage

Leave-in Treatments and Masks for Oily Hair

Leave-in Treatments and Masks for Oily Hair
Don’t let hair weigh you down.

Try a leave-in treatment like Davines OI All in One Milk or Omorovicza’s Scalp Reviver to hydrate and balance your scalp.

Or exfoliate with The INKEY List’s Salicylic Acid Exfoliating Scalp Treatment for a deep clean.

Davines OI All in One Milk

Craving a boost in your hair care routine? Davines OI Milk is your new sidekick.

This leave-in treatment transforms hair texture, offering shine and protection even for oily hair.

It’s like magic in a bottle—taming frizz and adding that enviable luster.

With each spray, embrace freedom from dull hair and let your locks sparkle naturally with enviable luster.

Omorovicza’s Scalp Reviver

Imagine this: your oily scalp gets an all-day refresh without the fuss. Omorovicza’s Scalp Reviver is your go-to hero. This leave-in treatment, brimming with salicylic acid and invigorating camphor, nixes excess oil while calming irritation (Source).

To maintain a healthy balance, consider incorporating a sun protection routine for your scalp, using broad-spectrum sunscreen, and focusing on oil-free and lightweight products.

It’s priceless at around £51.75, but the rave reviews speak volumes. For oily hair care advice, consider this a top contender.

The INKEY List’s Salicylic Acid Exfoliating Scalp Treatment

Ever wondered how to tackle an oily scalp? The INKEY List’s Salicylic Acid Exfoliating Scalp Treatment is your new best friend for a pre-wash routine.

It banishes excess oil and calms irritation with its salicylic acid benefits. You’ll say goodbye to greasy hair days for good!

  • Gently exfoliates
  • Targets itchy, flaky scalps
  • Promotes healthy hair environment
  • Easy-to-use as a pre-wash treatment

Maintaining a Healthy Hair Care Routine

Maintaining a Healthy Hair Care Routine
Taking care of oily hair might feel like playing whack-a-mole, but patience and a consistent routine will help keep those greasy strands under control.

Pairing the right shampoo with a matching conditioner creates harmony and makes managing oil levels more manageable, like keeping pizza grease in check with just the right amount of napkins.

Being Patient and Consistent With Hair Care

Consistency is your golden ticket in this hair care journey. Stick to your routine changes, and embrace the product trial phase as part of seeing long-term goals unfold. Just like a trusty sidekick, patience supports scalp health and maintains that flawless hair care routine for oily hair. Remember, slow and steady wins the race.

Here’s a snapshot of your roadmap:

Step Focus Goal
Routine Consistency Scalp health
Products Trial & Error Long-term goals
Patience Key Ingredient Mastery

Pairing Shampoo With a Matching Conditioner

Imagine you’ve got the patience part down—now let’s add the perfect shampoo and conditioner match.

This combo tackles oily scalp and pampers dry ends.

Consider these perks:

  • Optimal Oil Control: Balances sebum production for an oily scalp.
  • Scalp Nourishment: Conditioner for scalp health.
  • Custom Formulas: Specific matches offer better results.
  • Enhanced Benefits: Synergistic effect.
  • Simplified Routine: Less guesswork, more mastery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What can I do if I have oily hair?

To tackle oily hair, wash your hair daily, focusing shampoo just on the roots.

Skip heavy conditioners on the scalp, and use dry shampoo for quick touch-ups.

Avoid touching your hair, and rinse thoroughly.

How do I fix my oily dandruff hair?

Struggling with oily dandruff hair can be a real pickle!

Start by using a shampoo with tea tree oil for its antifungal properties.

Try rinsing with diluted apple cider vinegar; it’ll help balance scalp pH and reduce flakes.

How do I get rid of oily hair & scalp?

Try washing daily using a shampoo for oily hair, focusing on the roots.

Use conditioner only on the ends.

Limit touching your hair, and opt for dry shampoo between washes to absorb excess oil.

How should I hydrate oily hair?

Hydrate oily hair by using a lightweight conditioner on just the ends.

This prevents greasiness without weighing you down.

Keep your scalp’s natural oil balance in check, keeping it manageable and avoiding that pesky greasy look.

What is the best hair care routine for oily hair?

Balancing between too much and too little, wash oily hair daily, but gently.

Use volumizing products, applying conditioner only to the ends.

Embrace dry shampoo occasionally and keep hands off your hair to reduce grease.

How do I make my hair less oily?

Sounds like you’re struggling with that oily mane of yours.

No worries, friend – with a few tweaks to your routine, you can tame that grease and rock a fresh, healthy look.

Start by washing less often and using the right products for your hair type.

What should I use if my hair is oily?

To tackle oily hair, give dry shampoo a whirl or wash with a clarifying shampoo.

Avoid touching your hair too much and focus on conditioning only the ends.

These steps help keep greasiness at bay.

What is the best treatment for greasy hair?

Greasy hair got you down?

Try a balancing act with washing: not too often, not too sparse.

Use a clarifying shampoo, but avoid silicone-laden products.

Dry shampoo’s your pal for in-between days to soak up the shine.

How does diet impact oily hair?

Ever wonder why your hair turns oily?

Eating too many refined carbs and saturated fats can spike oil production.

Opt for veggies, fruits, and lean proteins. Balance your diet to help keep your hair fresh and clean.

Can scalp massages help reduce oiliness?

Scalp massages might actually boost your oil production instead of calming it down, as they stimulate the sebaceous glands.

If your goal’s reduction, you might want to rethink making massages a part of your routine.

What hairstyles work best for oily hair?

Try a sleek ponytail, classic braided ponytail, or playful bubble braids to manage oily hair.

These styles work with your hair’s natural oils, creating looks that are both fun and easy to achieve.

Are natural remedies effective for oily hair?

To tame oily hair, try natural remedies like apple cider vinegar, tea tree oil, or aloe vera.

They help balance oil without stripping your hair.

Adjust your washing routine to find what works for your unique hair type.

How often should I cut oily hair?

You don’t need to cut your hair more often just because it’s oily.

Focus on adjusting your washing routine instead – try shampooing every other day or every two days to balance oil production.

Conclusion

Think of taming oily hair as a journey, not a sprint.

You’ve got the tools now—a good purifying shampoo, strategic conditioning, and essential treatments like dry shampoos and scalp masks.

It’s all about finding what clicks for your unique hair care routine for oily hair.

Stay patient and keep experimenting—you’ll strike the perfect balance soon.

With these top tips and recommended products, you’re all set to enjoy manageable, fresh-looking hair every day!

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Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim is a published author and software engineer and beard care expert from the US. To date, he has helped thousands of men make their beards look better and get fatter. His work has been mentioned in countless notable publications on men's care and style and has been cited in Seeker, Wikihow, GQ, TED, and Buzzfeed.