Oily Hair: Causes, Common Mistakes and Effective Solutions

1️⃣ Why does hair become oily?

Oily hair is caused by an excess production of sebum by the sebaceous glands of the scalp. Sebum is useful: it protects and nourishes the hair. But in excess it makes the roots heavy, greasy and shiny.

Typical triggers:

• Stress, fatigue, lack of sleep
• Very frequent washing with harsh shampoos
• Hot water when rinsing
• Hormonal changes (puberty, cycles, some pills)
• Dirty hairbrush or pillowcase
• Rich products applied on the roots

2️⃣ The most common mistakes

❌ Washing hair every single day

The more you strip the scalp, the more it “defends” itself by producing even more sebum.

❌ Scrubbing the scalp aggressively

Massage gently, but avoid scratching. Aggression and irritation can increase oil production.

❌ Applying masks and oils to the roots

Keep nourishing products for mid-lengths and ends only. Roots already have enough sebum.

❌ Rinsing with very hot water

Heat activates the sebaceous glands. Lukewarm or slightly cool water is a better option.

❌ Brushing hair too often

Over-brushing spreads sebum from roots to lengths and makes hair look greasy faster.

3️⃣ Good habits to regulate sebum

• Wash 2–3 times a week with a gentle shampoo for oily hair or oily scalp.
• Rinse with lukewarm or cool water instead of very hot water.
• Use a purifying shampoo once a week to “detox” the scalp.
• Apply masks only on mid-lengths and ends, never on the roots.
• Clean your hairbrush regularly (warm water + mild soap).
• Change your pillowcase at least once a week.

4️⃣ Product selection for oily hair (Amazon UK)

Here is a selection of shampoos and treatments for oily hair and scalp, available on Amazon UK.

1. Klorane – Nettle Sebo-Regulating Shampoo

Gentle shampoo with nettle to progressively regulate sebum without irritating the scalp.

Amazon link:
👉 View on Amazon.co.uk

2. Vichy Dercos – Oily Hair / Balancing Shampoo

Dermatological shampoo to purify the scalp while respecting the hair fiber.

Amazon link:
👉 View on Amazon.co.uk

3. La Roche-Posay – Kerium (oily, sensitive scalp)

For people with both oily scalp and sensitivity or irritation.

Amazon link:
👉 View on Amazon.co.uk

4. Head & Shoulders – Citrus Fresh

Anti-dandruff shampoo for oily scalp, with a fresh citrus scent and purifying action.

Amazon link:
👉 View on Amazon.co.uk

5. Garnier – Ultimate Blends Clay for Oily Roots

Clay-based formula to purify oily roots while keeping lengths soft and light.

Amazon link:
👉 View on Amazon.co.uk

6. Kérastase Spécifique – Bain Divalent

Professional shampoo for oily roots and dry ends, ideal for combination hair.

Amazon link:
👉 View on Amazon.co.uk

5️⃣ FAQ – Oily Hair

Why does my hair get greasy again in 24 hours?
Frequent washing, harsh shampoos, stress or hormones may all contribute to this fast rebound.

Is it a good idea to “strip” my scalp?
No. Aggressive treatments can trigger a rebound effect and make things worse.

Can I still use a nourishing mask?
Yes, but only on mid-lengths and ends, never on the roots.

Can oily hair cause hair loss?
Excess sebum may clog follicles, especially when associated with oily dandruff. In case of significant hair loss, see a specialist.

⚠️ Warnings

• If you have intense itching, thick dandruff or plaques: seek dermatological advice.
• Avoid very strong DIY mixtures (pure vinegar, too much baking soda) that can irritate the scalp.
• This information does not replace medical consultation.

Advice written by a pharmacist graduated from the Faculty of Paris.
This article contains Amazon affiliate links: your purchase may support Tropisanté at no extra cost for you.