If you struggle with oily hair, you’re not alone. It can be frustrating to deal with, but don’t worry – there are plenty of ways to manage it. By making some simple changes to your haircare routine and paying attention to what you’re putting on your hair, you can help reduce the amount of oil your scalp produces and keep your hair looking fresh and clean.

 Keep reading for some tips and tricks to help you take care of your oily hair!

What causes oily hair?

It’s important to identify the cause of your oily hair to address it properly and effectively. Understanding the causes of oily hair can help us better manage and treat it.

Oily hair is caused by the overproduction of sebum, which is a natural oil produced by your scalp to keep your hair and scalp moisturized

However, when your scalp produces too much sebum, your hair can look greasy and oily. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, such as genetics, hormonal changes, poor diet, stress, and using the wrong hair products. 

Haircare for Oily Hair

1. Regular Gentle Washing

So, when you have oily hair, it’s important to keep it clean by washing it more often than other hair types. Use a gentle shampoo that’s made specifically for oily hair and massage it into your scalp to help remove excess oil. 

And don’t forget to rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water after you’re done shampooing to help control oil production. 

2. Avoid Heavy Products

If you have oily hair, using heavy hair products like serums, creams, and oils can make your hair even greasier. So it’s important to avoid these heavy products as much as possible.

 Instead, look for hair products that are lightweight and won’t weigh down your hair. You can find these products labeled as “oil-free” or “for oily hair”. 

3. Try Dry Shampoo Between Washes

Sometimes you might not have enough time to wash your hair or you might want to freshen it up between washes. That’s where dry shampoo can come in handy! Dry shampoo is like a powder that you can spray onto your hair to absorb the oil and give it a cleaner look.

So, instead of washing your hair every day, you can use dry shampoo (check on amazon) in between washes to keep your hair looking clean and fresh. Just make sure to follow the instructions on the bottle when using it!

4. Rinse Your Hair Well with Cool Water

After you’ve shampooed your hair, it’s important to rinse it well to get rid of all the shampoo and any excess oil. When you rinse your hair, make sure to use cool water instead of hot water.

 Cool water can help control oil production, while hot water can make your scalp produce more oil! So, rinse your hair well with cool water to help control oil production and keep your hair looking clean and fresh.

5. Reduce Your Use of Heat on Your Hair

Using heat tools like curling irons, straighteners, and blow dryers can damage your hair and make it look even greasier. So, it’s important to reduce the use of heat on your hair, especially if you have oily hair. 

Instead of using heat tools every day, try air-drying your hair or using styling techniques that don’t require heat. If you do need to use a heat tool, make sure to use a heat protectant spray (check on amazon)to minimize damage to your hair. 

6. Use Clarifying Shampoo Once a Week

Clarifying shampoo(check on amazon) is a special type of shampoo that helps remove buildup and excess oil from your hair. Using clarifying shampoo once a week can help keep your hair looking clean and fresh.

 But be careful not to use it too often, because it can be harsh on your hair and scalp if used too frequently. Follow the instructions on the bottle and use it only once a week to avoid damaging your hair. Using clarifying shampoo can also help prevent product buildup, which can make your hair look greasy and dull. So, use it once a week to keep your hair looking and feeling clean!

7. Avoid Over-Brushing or Touching

Brushing your hair too much or touching it frequently can stimulate oil production, making your hair look greasier. So, it’s important to avoid over-brushing or touching your hair throughout the day.

 Instead, try to style your hair in the morning and leave it alone as much as possible. You can also try using a wide-tooth comb or brush with natural bristles, which can help distribute oils from your scalp to the rest of your hair more evenly. 

But, remember not to brush or touch your hair too much.

8. Use Lightweight Hair Products

Heavy hair products like gels, pomades, and creams can weigh your hair down and make it look greasy. So, it’s important to use lightweight hair products instead. Look for hair products that are specifically designed for oily hair, such as volumizing shampoos or lightweight mousses.

 These products can help add volume and texture to your hair without making it look greasy or weighed down. Avoid using heavy hair products that contain oils, waxes, or silicones, which can make your hair look even greasier. 

9. Use Conditioner on Ends Only

Conditioner is an important part of any hair care routine, but it’s important to use it correctly if you have oily hair. Instead of applying conditioner all over your hair, focus on applying it only to the ends of your hair. The ends of your hair are usually drier and more prone to damage, so they need extra moisture to stay healthy.

 Avoid applying conditioner to your scalp or the roots of your hair, because this can make your hair look greasier. When applying conditioner, use a small amount and massage it into the ends of your hair. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing it out with cool water.

10. Eat healthy and stay hydrated

 Eating a healthy diet and staying hydrated is essential for healthy hair, especially if you have oily hair. A balanced diet rich in nutrients like protein, iron, and vitamins can help promote healthy hair growth and prevent hair loss. So, make sure you’re eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins like chicken, fish, and beans. Avoid foods that are high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, as these can contribute to oily hair and scalp.

In addition to eating well, it’s also important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Water helps to flush out toxins from your body, which can help to reduce oiliness and promote healthy hair growth. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day, or more if you’re exercising or in a hot climate.

11. Avoid Sleeping with Greasy Hair

Sleeping with greasy hair can contribute to excess oil buildup on your scalp, leading to clogged pores and potential hair problems like dandruff and hair loss. So, it’s important to avoid going to bed with oily hair whenever possible.

If you’ve been out all day and your hair is looking greasy, try using a dry shampoo or a quick rinse with cool water before bedtime. You can also tie your hair up in a loose bun or braid to help minimize contact with your pillow and reduce friction that can lead to tangles and breakage.

Another helpful tip is to wash your pillowcase regularly, especially if you have oily hair. This can help to prevent bacteria and oil buildup that can transfer back onto your hair and scalp while you sleep.

12. Protect Hair with Shower Cap

Using a shower cap (check on amazon)can help protect your hair from excess moisture and humidity that can lead to oily hair. When you take a shower or bath, the steam, and moisture can cause your hair to become greasy, especially if you have naturally oily hair. By wearing a shower cap, you can keep your hair dry and avoid exposing it to excess moisture and humidity.

To use a shower cap, simply slip it over your head and make sure your hair is fully covered. You can also adjust the elastic band around the edge of the cap to ensure a snug fit and prevent any water from getting in. By keeping your hair dry during shower time, you can help reduce excess oil buildup on your scalp and promote healthy, balanced hair.

Using a shower cap can also be a great way to extend the time between hair washes. If you’re short on time or just want to give your hair a break from frequent washing, try wearing a shower cap when you shower or bathe.

13. Try Natural Remedies

If you’re looking for a more natural way to take care of your oily hair, you might want to try using natural remedies. These are simple ingredients that you can find at home or in a natural food store that can help regulate your scalp’s oil production. 

For example, you could try using apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, or aloe vera gel. These are all gentle, natural solutions that can help you keep your hair looking clean and healthy without using harsh chemicals. Just be sure to do a patch test first to make sure you’re not allergic to any of the ingredients!

14. Avoid Tight Hairstyles

When you have oily hair, it’s important to avoid hairstyles that pull on your scalp too tightly. Tight hairstyles can increase oil production by stimulating the sebaceous glands in your scalp, leading to greasier hair.

 So, if you’re prone to oily hair, it’s best to avoid styles like tight braids, ponytails, or buns. Instead, try loose and flowing hairstyles that don’t put too much tension on your scalp. This will not only help keep your hair less oily, but it will also be more comfortable for you!

15.  Use a Scalp Scrub

Using a scalp scrub is a great way to help manage oily hair. A scalp scrub is a product that is specifically designed to exfoliate and cleanse the scalp, which can help remove excess oil and buildup.

• To use a scalp scrub,(check on amazon) wet your hair and massage the product into your scalp for a few minutes, focusing on areas where you tend to get oily. 

• Then, rinse thoroughly with cool water and follow up with a lightweight conditioner.

 Scalp scrubs are usually used once a week, but it’s important to read the instructions on your particular product to make sure you’re using it correctly. As with any new product, it’s a good idea to do a patch test before using a scalp scrub all over your head, to make sure you don’t have any adverse reactions.

 So, consider giving a scalp scrub a try and see if it makes a difference in managing your oily hair!

16. Choose Your Products Wisely

Choosing the right hair products is crucial when it comes to managing oily hair. You want to avoid heavy, oily products that will only make your hair greasier. Look for lightweight, oil-free products that are specifically formulated for oily hair. When shopping for hair products, check the labels and look for keywords like “oil-free,” “lightweight,” and “clarifying.” It’s also important to avoid using too much product and to rinse your hair thoroughly to remove any leftover residue. 

17. Switch Up Your brush

Believe it or not, the type of brush you use can make a big difference in the appearance of your oily hair. If you’re using a brush with dense, tightly-packed bristles, it could be spreading the natural oils from your scalp throughout your hair, making it look even greasier.

Try switching to a brush with widely-spaced bristles, or a boar bristle brush. These types of brushes are more gentle on your hair and scalp, and they help to distribute your hair’s natural oils evenly without overloading it. Additionally, make sure you clean your brush regularly to prevent any buildup of oils, dirt, or product residue.

18. Deep clean with aloe

Deep cleaning your hair with aloe is a natural remedy that can help keep your oily hair under control. Aloe is a plant that has natural cleansing properties and can help remove excess oil from your hair and scalp.

• To use aloe as a deep cleanser for your hair, you can start by mixing a small amount of aloe vera gel with your shampoo. 

• Apply the mixture to your hair and scalp, and massage it in gently.

•  Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing it out with cool water.

Alternatively, you can also use aloe vera juice as a hair rinse. After shampooing, pour the aloe vera juice over your hair and scalp and massage it in. Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing it out with cool water.

Remember, using natural remedies like aloe can be a great way to care for your oily hair without using harsh chemicals. However, it’s important to talk to your doctor or a hair care professional before trying any new treatments to make sure they’re safe for you to use.

19. Avoid products with silicone

Silicones are often found in hair products such as shampoos, conditioners, and styling products. They can create a smooth and shiny look, but they can also contribute to the buildup of oil and product on your hair.

To keep your oily hair in check, it’s best to avoid products with silicone. Look for products that are labeled “silicone-free” or “non-comedogenic,” which means they won’t clog your pores and contribute to oily buildup. You can also try natural and organic hair products, which tend to be free of silicones and other harsh chemicals.

we recommend: Argan Oil Shampoo and Conditioner Set – Moisturizing Sulfate Free Moroccan Care with Keratin (check on amazon)

20. Consider Professional Treatment

If you’ve tried all the tips and tricks for managing oily hair, but still aren’t seeing the results you want, it might be time to consider professional treatment. There are many different treatments available, such as scalp treatments, deep-cleansing shampoos, and even medications that can help regulate your scalp’s oil production. These treatments are often performed by a hair care professional, such as a stylist or a dermatologist, and can provide longer-lasting results than over-the-counter products.

 However, it’s important to do your research and choose a reputable professional with experience in treating oily hair. Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations or schedule a consultation to discuss your options. Remember, taking care of your hair is important, and sometimes a little professional help can go a long way!

In summary

In conclusion, this comprehensive guide has provided valuable insights into managing oily hair effectively. By understanding the causes of oily hair and implementing the right strategies, you can achieve fresh, clean, and oil-free hair. From adopting a healthy haircare routine to incorporating dry shampoo and utilizing professional treatment options, there are various techniques to combat excess oil production.

Embracing natural remedies and healthy habits further contribute to overall hair health. Remember to consult with experts for personalized advice tailored to your specific needs. With these tips and techniques, you can confidently manage oily hair and enjoy beautiful, refreshed hair.