Oily Hair can be embarrassing, irritating and simply annoying. Unfortunately, oily hair is a condition that is extremely common among many people. Thankfully, there are remedies out there that can help get rid of the problem. Certain shampoos have been designed specifically to help those who have unwanted oily hair. These shampoos are meant to purify and clarify any impurities. With that being said, there are so many products on the market that it becomes very difficult to decide which one to buy. It is important to consider your options when choosing the perfect shampoo for your situation. Not all shampoos are formulated the same way, therefore they will not all deliver the same results. In this article, you will learn what the best shampoo for oily hair is for you.
I Know We Are All Busy So… Here Is The Bullet List
- Budget: Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo
- Organic: Desert Essence Organics Lemon Tea Tree Shampoo
- Drugstore: TRESemmé Deep Cleansing Shampoo
- Sebum Reduction: Apivita Balancing Shampoo
- For Dandruff: Neutrogena T/Sal Shampoo, Scalp Build-up Control
- Anti-Fungal: Tisserand Tea Tree Deep Cleansing Shampoo
- For Fine Hair: Maple Holistics Degrease Shampoo
- Clarifying: Pantene Purify Clarifying Shampoo
- Detox: Redken Scalp Relief Oil Detox Shampoo
- Everyday Use: Bumble and Bumble Seaweed Shampoo
- Color Treated Hair: Head And Shoulders Instant Oil Control Shampoo
- Top Overall – Runner Up: L’Oreal Pure Resource Purifying Shampoo
- Top Overall: Matrix Biolage Normalizing Shampoo
**Below are our more detailed reviews. Click the links above to see current prices or read customer reviews on Amazon.
What Causes Oily Hair?
When attempting to get rid of unwanted oil, it is important to fully understand why it is there in the first place. Oily hair can be caused due to a numerous amount of reasons, but the main reason is related to the maintenance of it. It is important to verify the ingredients in your shampoo to ensure you are helping the situation and not simply worsening it. Our hair actually requires much more maintenance and care than many of us may think. It must be washed frequently to prevent grease. Our hair needs to be kept clean, hydrated and refreshed in order to remain beautiful.
Sebaceous Glands: The scalp contains sebaceous glands, which are better known as oil glands.
These glands are responsible for maintaining the appropriate hydration levels that your skin needs by releasing sebum. Unfortunately, some sebaceous glands can also release excess oil which leads to the hair appearing greasy. To control this problem, it is important to wash your hair very frequently. With that being said, it is just as important to use the appropriate shampoo if you want to achieve the best results.
Hair Types: Certain hair types can be more prone to becoming oily than others.
For instance, curly hair is often dry at the bottom but oily at the roots. Along with that, fine hair often appears more greasy than others. If you are not using the appropriate products, fine hair can easily become more greasy than thicker hair types, especially when using heavy creams or conditioners.
Hormones: Hormones actually increase oil production.
High hormone levels can cause extreme excess oil which can be devastating. It is highly likely for oily hair to occur during puberty, pregnancy and while taking birth control pills. Hormonal issues in both men and women can cause excess sebum production. If this is the case for you, you should consider buying a high-quality shampoo that lasts all day.
Your Hair Care Routine: Your personal hair care routine can play a huge role in your greasy hair.
Excess scrubbing while shampooing can irritate the scalp. An irritated scalp causes more oil production. Also, brushing your hair too much won’t help the situation, as it will distribute the grease throughout your hair strands. To add to that, it is important to avoid touching your hair as much as possible. This is important especially when you are eating or preparing greasy foods, as the grease can be transferred from your fingers into your hair. Along with that, it is the same situation with oily makeup. Before applying makeup, pin your hair away from your face and do not touch it until your hands are clean.
Genetics: You know how people tell you that you have your mother’s eyes or your father’s skill at basketball? Well, the same goes for your hair. If one or both of your parents have oily hair, you’ll likely have it too. There’s not much you can do about it, either, other than try to care for it as best you can.
Weather: Humidity is yet another factor that can lead to oily hair. If you live in a hot climate with a lot of humidity, your hair will show it. And if the weather cools off in the fall and winter, you may also notice a decrease in your oily hair, so it isn’t all bad. You’ll just need to adjust your routine in the humid months to try to keep the excess oil at bay.
Skin conditions: There are a few skin conditions that can cause oily hair, which is a bit more serious than the usual reasons. These conditions usually have some dandruff as well as the usual extra oil. One of these issues is Seborrheic Dermatitis. This condition also has a higher sebum production than normal, plus has yellow patches of oily skin on the scalp. Psoriasis is another skin condition that may cause excess oil. This condition is caused by the overproduction of cells. But it shows up as red patches and silvery dandruff. Neither of these conditions can be treated with normal shampoo, so if you notice any of their symptoms along with the oily hair, be sure to speak with your doctor.
Is Oily Hair Treatable?
Oily hair can seem like a never-ending problem.
Sometimes, even after trying to shampoo more frequently and use less conditioner, the problem is still there. The truth is, oily hair is treatable if it is done the right way. Shampooing more frequently will not make a difference in your oily hair if you are not using the appropriate shampoo. There are certain shampoos on the market that are meant to clarify, replenish and provide a deep cleanse for those of us who are dealing with excessive oily hair.
Typically, these shampoos are filled with ingredients that soak up any unwanted oils. Using a good quality anti-oil shampoo will get rid of the greasy hair you are insecure about, and replace it with the soft and vibrant hair you have always dreamed of. Oily hair can be treated quickly and easily, you just have to do it properly.
Are Anti-oil Shampoos Bad for my Hair?
It is hard to believe that it is possible to treat oily hair, without completely damaging your scalp.
Thankfully, high quality shampoos have been designed and are made up of ingredients that are not harmful to your hair or scalp. Typically, shampoos specifically meant for oily hair contain natural ingredients such as citrus extracts and herbs. Instead of damaging your scalp with harmful chemicals, these shampoos safely break down buildup in the hair. As long as you take the appropriate time to study the product before buying it, you can ensure that it isn’t harmful.
Sulfate-free products are always better as they are less harmful to the scalp. Keeping your scalp healthy by using good quality products will give you the best results.
How to Get the Best Results?
No matter what anti-grease shampoo you use, you will not get the absolute best results unless it is used properly. When it comes to getting rid of oily hair, there are a few steps that are extremely important to follow:
Wash Frequently But Not Daily: A huge misconception about oily hair is that you must wash it everyday.
It is true that you should wash your hair frequently, but daily washing can cause the oils to be removed too quickly, which encourages them to come back even oilier to make up for the loss. It is recommended for those of us who have naturally oily hair to wash it every second or third day to achieve the best results. For the other days you can use a high quality dry shampoo to keep the oil under control.
Be Gentle on Your Hair: When it’s time to shampoo that oil and dirt away, do so gently. Scrubbing your scalp too hard can irritate your scalp. This irritation then leads to over-stimulation of your glands. They then produce more sebum, which leads to oily hair. Instead of scrubbing with your nails, use only the tips of your fingers, massaging the scalp to remove the dirt, oil, and product.
Be Careful With Conditioners: A conditioner is meant to nourish areas of dryness, not areas that are already moisturized.
The root of your hair is already moisturized by natural oils, therefore it is not necessary to apply a conditioner to it. If you simply cannot go without a conditioner, try only using it at the ends of your hair, to prevent them from drying out. The recommendation for extremely oily hair is to use absolutely no conditioner at all, or if possible, very infrequently.
To avoid over-moisturizing, try only conditioning once a week.
Rinse With Warm and Cold Water: Many of us only rinse our hair with the hot water we are already showering in.
However, hot water can actually cause oily hair. Hot water strips the hair of the oils it needs, resulting in the scalp trying to replenish them immediately, which can cause greasy hair that is also very difficult to comb. It has been proven highly effective to rinse hair with warm water instead of hot, then finishing it off one last time with cold water to add shine.
Limit Touching: This means all types of touching, not just with your hands, though keep them off too. There are natural oils on your fingers, plus whatever you pick up along the way, that could be transferred to your hair. Brushing should also be limited to only when you need it. Though brushing helps distribute the oils more evenly, it also stimulates the sebaceous glands. Then they kick into action, pumping out the oil you already have enough of.
What to Look for in the Best Shampoo for Oily Hair?
With all of the products on the market, it can be extremely difficult to decide which shampoo is best for your oily hair. When searching for the right shampoo, there are certain generic things you must look for in order to achieve the best results. The first thing you will want to look for is a shampoo that is formulated specifically for oily hair. Typically, it will be written somewhere on the label.
Next, you will want to read the back of the bottle to ensure that there are no added oils or silicone. The reason you should avoid any added oils or silicone is due to the fact that they tend to induce more oil production which can then lead to build up. Along with that, you may want to look for clear shampoos. Clear shampoos are usually free from any additional conditioners. Additional conditioning is the last thing you need, as they contribute to the buildup of oils.
The most effective ingredients for treating oily hair are citrus extracts and astringent herbs, as they help break up excess oils. Investing in a good clarifying shampoo can make a drastic difference for your oily hair, as it will absorb any unwanted oils. Following these few simple guidelines will help you find a shampoo that will not only boost your confidence but also make you feel much better about your hair.
The 13 Best Shampoo’s For Oily Hair
Best Budget Shampoo For Oily Hair
Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo
If you are looking for a great quality shampoo that also fits your budget, Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo is the perfect choice for you. This shampoo comes in a small bottle that is perfect for travel.
The product is not only sold at a great price, but it lasts a long time. The shampoo works so well that it only has to be applied once a week. Applying it once a week along with your regular shampoo can make a huge difference for your oily hair. This product is a shampoo treatment that instantly removes up to 90% of heavy dulling residue. The formula is made up of mild, non-irritating ingredients. This clarifying shampoo removes any residue or buildup on your hair, whether it be from styling products, everyday buildup or a heavy conditioner.
This shampoo leaves hair feeling soft, clean and refreshed. It will give your hair the boost of volume and texture you have always wanted, without spending a ton of cash.
Click to read other user reviews of this product.
Best Organic Shampoo For Oily Hair
Desert Essence Organics Lemon Tea Tree Shampoo
Although the main focus is to get rid of your oily hair, it is just as important to keep your scalp healthy while doing so.
For those of you who love being healthy and who try to avoid applying any harsh chemicals to your body, Desert Essence Organics Hair Care Shampoo would not disappoint you. This organic shampoo’s formula is made up mostly of coconut oil, sugar cleansers and tea tree oil, which works wonders on oily hair. This shampoo allows you to get the results you want, while not damaging your scalp. Along with that, this shampoo has a wonderful lemon scent that it’s users say is unbeatable.
This product is a high quality organic shampoo that has been designed specifically to soak up any excess or unwanted oils while also preventing build-up. This shampoo leaves the hair smelling and appearing fresher than ever before. If you want to do yourself a favour, keep your scalp happy and get rid of your greasy hair, this shampoo is suitable for you. Check out our full review.
Click to read other user reviews of this product.
Best Drugstore Shampoo For Oily Hair
TRESemmé Deep Cleansing Shampoo
TRESemmé Deep Cleansing Shampoo can be found at generally any drugstore.
It is easily found and works wonders on oily hair. This high quality drugstore shampoo delivers a deep cleanse while eliminating buildup and impurities. This product has been proven highly effective when used on greasy hair. It can be used as needed for deep cleansing. The mild formula can be applied once a week for mild cases, or daily for extreme buildup. It leaves the hair looking and feeling cleaner than ever before.
This shampoo will clarify any heavy residues that diminish your hair’s shine. The formula is enriched with vitamin C along with extracts from grapefruit and lemon. These ingredients are used to clarify and polish hair. If you are looking for a high quality drugstore shampoo that will deliver amazing results, this shampoo is a great choice.
Click to read other user reviews of this product.
Best Sebum Reduction Shampoo For Oily Hair
Apivita Balancing Shampoo
Aptivia Propoline is a no-nonsense grease remover that is packed full of natural ingredients.
In our testing, we found this shampoo to be extremely effective and definitely a contender for best shampoo for oily hair. The ingredients include peppermint, propolis, thyme, nettle, and natural Lipoamino acid (reduces sebum build up). What we really love about this shampoo is the Lipoamino acid. It’s brilliant at reducing the sebum in our scalp glands and is a completely natural acid. It’s also a great shampoo to use for strengthening.
So for those with damaged hair it’s a perfect match up. Again, it’s not the cheapest price but a little goes a long way. I only needed the smallest drops from the bottle and it makes an amazing lather. I managed to go without washing my hair for over 2 days with this product. Check out the full review.
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Best Shampoo For Dandruff and Oily Hair
Neutrogena T/Sal Shampoo, Scalp Build-up Control
Many people are surprised to find out that both dandruff and oily hair can come hand-in-hand.
The truth is, hair that becomes too greasy eventually dries out the scalp, leading to flaking. Let’s face it – oily and flaky hair is a disaster and must go. This is where Neutrogena T/Sal Shampoo steps in and removes the issue. It is a dermatologist-recommended shampoo that clears crusty scalp build up, while relieving itching that can be associated with severe scalp conditions. This shampoo is a clarifying and anti-dandruff shampoo that works in more ways than one. It helps reduce oil buildup and clears an unwanted flaky scalp.
Neutrogena’s active ingredient is salicylic acid which is also found in many prescription acne medications. The ingredient has been clinically proven effective in reducing oil on the skin. It should be the first ingredient used in any scalp treatment. With that being said, when it is applied to the scalp it reduces sebum production, resulting in the hair feeling less greasy. Using this therapeutic shampoo will diminish both oily and flaky hair for good.
Click to read other user reviews of this product.
Best Anti-Fungal Shampoo For Oily Hair
Tisserand Tea Tree Deep Cleansing Shampoo
Tea Tree Oil is a well known fighter against greasy and oily hair.
Tea tree oil also has great anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties. It works by stripping down the existing, excess oil and leaves the hair looking clean for longer. Tisserand Tea Tree Deep Cleansing Shampoo is the most incredible smell and is effective. Some of the botanical ingredients are tea tree oil, rosemary oil, lemon oil, and hop botanical extracts. The combination of lemon and Tea Tree is absolutely great. After a few days of using this shampoo my hair looked drastically different. It’s so gentle and light. Smells literally amazing and has long lasting effects. Check out the full review.
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Best Shampoo for Fine Oily Hair
Maple Holistics Degrease Shampoo
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Best Clarifying Shampoo For Oily Hair
Pantene Purify Clarifying Shampoo
If you tend to use styling products daily, a clarifying shampoo will help you get rid of the heavy residues they build up.
Clarifying shampoos are the perfect go-to when you are looking to get rid of your oily hair. Clarifying shampoos clear out any unwanted oils that may be causing your hair to appear greasy. Pantene Purify Clarifying Shampoo does exactly that. It purifies, cleanses and works wonders on greasy hair. When oil gets really bad and you feel helpless, this is the shampoo to use. The formula does not contain any moisturizers that can weigh down hair. It does not contain paraben and is completely dye free.
The shampoo can be applied generously throughout the hair and will never leave a residue. If you are looking for a clarifying shampoo that does exactly what it is supposed to do, this product will definitely meet your expectations.
Click to read other user reviews of this product.
Best Detox Shampoo For Oily Hair
Redken Scalp Relief Oil Detox Shampoo
Providing your hair with a great detox cleanse can completely transform its appearance.
If you are seeking a deep cleanse, Redken Scalp Relief Shampoo will not fail to meet your expectations. This shampoo instantly relieves the scalp of any unwanted oils, while clarifying any impurities. It mattifies the scalp while leaving the hair deeply cleansed and lightweight. The product is formulated with Redken’s Exclusive Interbond Scalp System and Lipa-Sponge System.
These systems deliver lipacide, micro-sponges and lemon juice extracts which help equalize the scalp’s pH levels. As a result, the scalp is left oil-free and without imperfections. This detox shampoo allows the scalp to feel soothed and relieved of any oils or dandruff that may have been irritating. A detox shampoo is a great choice for anyone who wants to get rid of their oily hair as effectively and efficiently as possible.
Click to read other user reviews of this product.
Best Everyday Use Shampoo For Oily Hair
Bumble and Bumble Seaweed Shampoo
If you are someone who can’t go a day without washing your hair, or if you simply enjoy lathering it up on a daily basis, Bumble and Bumble Seaweed Shampoo is the one for you.
Although it is not recommended to wash oily hair on a daily basis, this shampoo is gentle enough that it will not do any harm. This shampoo is meant to nourish hair without adding weight and clean it without stripping it. Along with that, this product leaves hair looking shiny and smelling wonderful. The shampoo is formulated with marine seaweed, spirulina and kelp. These ingredients feed the roots, add shine and keep the scalp happy. The products gentle formula is perfect for everyday use. It is gentle and highly effective on oily hair.
Click to read other user reviews of this product.
Best Shampoo for Color Treated Oily Hair
Head And Shoulders Instant Oil Control Shampoo
Do you have chemically-colored hair that is extremely oily?
Choosing a shampoo that is suitable for color treated hair can be difficult. Many products on the market contain ingredients that remove the color very quickly. When looking for a shampoo that will help keep your hair color, it is important to get one that is gentle and pH balanced. Head and Shoulders Instant Oil Control Shampoo is exactly that. It is designed specifically for oily hair and is highly suitable for anyone who has chemically treated hair. The shampoo is formulated with mango and citrus extracts, which is gentle and pH balanced for frequent use, even on colored hair. Using this shampoo will allow you to control your oily hair, while prolonging the time between salon visits.
Click to read other user reviews of this product.
Best Overall Shampoo For Oily Hair – Runner Up
L’Oreal Pure Resource Purifying Shampoo
The first thing you’ll notice about this shampoo is it’s delicious smell. Once you pop open the cap, a natural aroma fills your nose. It really is an amazing smell. I feel confident saying that almost everyone wants nice smelling hair.
Only after one wash my hair was left looking healthier than it’s ever looked before. I didn’t have to wash my hair for 4 days. Any reader of this blog will know how important that is. The amount of times I’ve had to carry dry shampoo around with me in my purse or the times I’ve had to wash my hair 12 hours later. These problems no longer exist for me. My hair was left feeling soft, healthy and grease free. There’s nothing better than being bombarded with compliments on how wonderful my hair looked. This is definitely one of the best shampoos for oily hair.
This L’Oreal shampoo is quite expensive but it comes in HUGE bottles and will last you a good few months. Think about it as an investment for the future of your hair. Check out the full review.
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