Oily hair can be a constant battle, making you feel self-conscious and frustrated. With the right shampoo and a few simple tips, you can control greasy hair and enjoy long-lasting freshness. In this blog post, I’ll have a round-up of oily hair remedies where I go over the key ingredients to avoid in shampoos, discuss the types of shampoo consistencies that may not suit oily hair, and share valuable tips to help you go longer between hair washes.
For more scalp health tips, check out this blog post.
Ingredients to Avoid in Shampoos for Oily Hair
Heavy Oils: When selecting a shampoo, stay away from those containing heavy oils like coconut oil or mineral oil. These oils can weigh down your hair, exacerbating its oily appearance.
Silicones: While silicones provide a temporary smoothness, they can create a buildup on your scalp, trapping oil and making your hair appear greasier. Look for shampoos labeled “silicone-free” to avoid this issue.
Sulfates: Although sulfates are found in shampoos, they can strip your hair of its natural oils, causing your scalp to produce more oil to compensate. Opt for sulfate-free shampoos (if you can) that cleanse without over-drying.
*Not all sulfates are bad. Sulfates are needed to deeply clean your scalp and hair, but a less stripping sulfate is Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI).
Shampoo Consistencies to Avoid
Creamy or Thick Shampoos: Thick and creamy shampoos may leave residue on your scalp, making it harder to rinse off completely. This residue can contribute to an oily appearance. Instead, opt for lightweight and clarifying shampoos that provide a thorough cleanse.
Shampoos with Heavy Conditioners: Some shampoos come with built-in conditioners, which can be counterproductive for oily hair. These conditioners can weigh down your locks, leading to increased oiliness. Choose shampoos without added conditioners or use a separate lightweight conditioner on the ends of your hair.
Oily Hair Shampoos That I Recommend:
Tips to Avoid Oily Hair and Extend Time Between Washes
Focus on Scalp Cleansing: Concentrate on thoroughly cleansing your scalp while shampooing. Gently massage the shampoo into your roots to remove excess oil and buildup. Avoid applying too much product to the lengths of your hair, as this can weigh it down.
Use a Gentle Scalp Massage: When shampooing, take a few extra minutes to massage your scalp gently with your fingertips. This stimulates blood flow to the hair follicles and helps distribute natural oils, preventing excessive oil buildup.
Avoid Overbrushing: Brushing your hair too often can stimulate your scalp, leading to increased oil production. Opt for a wide-toothed comb or a brush with natural bristles, and limit brushing to detangling purposes only.
Adjust Your Styling Products: Avoid heavy styling products like gels or pomades, as they can make your hair greasier. Opt for lightweight and oil-free products that won’t weigh your hair down.
More Oily Hair Remedies to Incorporate into Your Hair Care Routine
Rinse with Lukewarm Water: When washing your hair, use lukewarm water instead of hot water. Hot water can stimulate the sebaceous glands, leading to increased oil production. Rinsing with lukewarm water helps to keep the oiliness in check.
Use a Weekly Clarifying Treatment: Incorporate a clarifying treatment into your routine once a week to deeply cleanse your scalp and remove any product buildup. Look for clarifying shampoos or scalp scrubs that are specifically designed for oily hair.
Avoid Touching Your Hair: As tempting as it may be, try to avoid touching your hair throughout the day. Our hands carry natural oils and dirt that can transfer to the hair, making it appear greasier. If you need to fix your hair, use a wide-toothed comb or brush instead.
Dry Shampoo: Dry shampoo can be a lifesaver when you need to extend the time between washes. It helps absorb excess oil and adds volume to your hair. Apply it to the roots, let it sit for a few minutes, and then brush it out to distribute the product evenly. For added absorption, use a blow dryer.
Avoid Over-conditioning: If you use a conditioner, focus on applying it to the lengths and ends of your hair, avoiding the scalp area. Conditioning the scalp can lead to excessive oiliness. Additionally, choose lightweight conditioners or opt for a leave-in conditioner instead.
Remember, finding the right balance in your hair care routine may take some trial and error. Pay attention to how your hair responds to different products and techniques, and make adjustments accordingly.
With the right shampoo and a few simple oily hair remedies, you can effectively manage oily hair and enjoy a longer period between washes. Remember to avoid shampoos containing heavy oils, silicones, and sulfates, and opt for lightweight, clarifying options instead. Embrace the journey towards healthy, balanced hair, and say hello to longer-lasting freshness!
