Why Is My Hair So Oily And How to Fix Oily Hair

If you’re someone who struggles with oily, greasy hair, you’re definitely not alone. Excess oil production in the scalp is a common issue that many people face. The good news is there are proven methods to help manage and reduce oily hair. In this article, I’ll dive into the causes of oily hair and share some practical tips to help you get your grease under control.

Why does hair get oily?

Our hair naturally produces oil, known as sebum, from the sebaceous glands in the scalp. This oil helps to keep our hair and scalp moisturized and healthy. However, some people’s sebaceous glands can go into overdrive, leading to an overproduction of sebum. This results in an oily, shiny, and sometimes even stringy appearance.

Factors that can contribute to oily hair include genetics, hormonal changes, stress, certain hair care products, and even environmental factors like humidity. It’s important to note that having an oily scalp doesn’t necessarily mean your hair is unhealthy. Some people with oily hair still maintain strong, vibrant locks. However, excessive oil can lead to other issues like dandruff, product buildup, and even hair loss if left unchecked.

Is oily hair normal

Contrary to popular belief, oily hair isn’t necessarily a sign of poor hygiene or an unhealthy scalp. In fact, it’s a very common issue that affects people of all ages and hair types. The amount of oil your hair produces can be influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics, hormones, stress levels, and even the weather. 

That said, excessive oil production can lead to other problems, like an itchy, irritated scalp, clogged pores, and even hair loss. So while a bit of shine is normal, if your hair is consistently looking limp and greasy, there are steps you can take to get it back under control.

How to get rid of greasy hair

1. Wash Your Hair Less Frequently

One of the most important steps in managing oily hair is to avoid over-washing. It may seem counterintuitive, but lathering up too often can actually backfire and cause your scalp to produce even more oil. The key is to find the right balance – aim to wash your hair just 2-3 times per week, using a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo. Sulfates can be quite drying, which can trigger the scalp to overcompensate by generating excess sebum.

When you do wash, be sure to focus the shampoo mainly on your roots and scalp area, as this is where the oil tends to accumulate the most. You can also try rinsing your hair with cool or lukewarm water, as hot water can strip away too much of your hair’s natural oils.

2. Incorporate a Clarifying Shampoo

In addition to your regular gentle shampoo, make sure to incorporate a clarifying shampoo into your routine 1-2 times per week. Clarifying shampoos are formulated to deeply cleanse the scalp and remove any buildup of product, dirt, and excess oil. This can help reset your scalp and hair, preventing that greasy, weighed-down look.

Look for clarifying shampoos that contain ingredients like salicylic acid, tea tree oil, or even apple cider vinegar – these can help further purify the scalp and balance oil production. Just be sure not to use a clarifying shampoo too frequently, as it can potentially dry out your hair and scalp over time.

3. Use a Lightweight Conditioner

While conditioner is important for keeping hair healthy and nourished, heavy, creamy formulas can actually contribute to an oily appearance. Instead, opt for a lightweight, volumizing conditioner that won’t weigh down your strands. Focus the conditioner mainly on the mid-lengths and ends of your hair, avoiding the roots as much as possible.

You can also try using a leave-in conditioner or hair serum, but apply these products sparingly and focus them on the drier, more damaged areas of your hair. Avoid heavy, silicone-based products, as these can create a greasy buildup over time.

4. Blot Away Excess Oil

Throughout the day, keep a pack of oil-absorbing sheets or blotting papers on hand to quickly soak up any unwanted shine on your scalp and hair. Gently blotting the skin can help remove excess oil without disrupting your hairstyle or causing frizz.

You can also try using a clean, dry sponge or a bit of tissue paper in a pinch. Just dab lightly on the oily areas – no need to rub or scrub, as this can further stimulate oil production.

5. Embrace Dry Shampoo

Dry shampoo is a lifesaver for those dealing with persistently oily hair. These powdery formulas work by absorbing excess sebum and adding instant volume and texture to your roots. Simply spritz a bit of dry shampoo onto your scalp, let it sit for a minute or two, then brush or massage it through. Dry shampoo can be a game-changer for extending the time between washes and keeping your style looking fresh and clean. Just be sure not to overuse it, as the buildup can potentially clog your pores over time.

6. Exfoliate Your Scalp

Just like the skin on your face, your scalp can also benefit from regular exfoliation to remove product buildup, dead skin cells, and excess oil. Try incorporating a gentle scalp scrub or exfoliating brush into your haircare routine 1-2 times per week.

Look for scrubs that contain ingredients like jojoba beads, coconut husks, or sugar – these physical exfoliants can help dislodge any gunk or residue that may be contributing to an oily, flaky scalp. Massage the scrub gently into your scalp using your fingertips, then rinse thoroughly.