Why Your Hair Gets Oily So Fast + What to Do About It
Your scalp naturally produces an oil called sebum, which keeps your hair moisturized and healthy. But when your sebaceous glands go into overdrive, things get slick fast. Several factors can trigger excess oil production, including overwashing, using the wrong hair products, hormonal changes, and even stress.
One of the biggest mistakes people make is washing their hair too often. It sounds counterintuitive, but shampooing daily strips your scalp of its natural oils, signaling your body to produce even more sebum to compensate. Another culprit? Heavy hair products like thick conditioners, serums, and styling creams that weigh hair down and trap oil. And let’s not forget touching your hair constantly—your hands transfer oils and dirt, making the problem worse.
How to Fix Oily Hair: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Adjust Your Washing Routine
Instead of shampooing every day, try gradually spacing out washes. Start by washing every other day, then every three days. Your scalp needs time to adjust, but eventually, it will slow down oil production. When you do wash, use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo designed for oily hair. Harsh sulfates can strip your scalp too much, leading to rebound oiliness.
2. Use the Right Products
Look for lightweight, oil-balancing shampoos with ingredients like tea tree oil, charcoal, or apple cider vinegar, which help control excess sebum. Avoid heavy conditioners—if you must use one, apply it only to your ends, not your roots. And don’t skip dry shampoo! It’s a lifesaver for soaking up grease between washes.
3. Keep Your Hands Off Your Hair
Every time you run your fingers through your hair, you’re spreading oil from your hands to your strands. Try to break the habit of touching your hair throughout the day. If you style it, use a wide-tooth comb instead of a brush, which can distribute oil from roots to tips.
4. Rinse with Cool Water
Hot water can stimulate oil production, so finish your shower with a cool rinse. This helps tighten hair cuticles and slows down sebum secretion.
5. Check Your Diet & Hydration
What you eat affects your scalp health. Too much fried or processed food can contribute to oiliness, while staying hydrated helps regulate natural oil production. Foods rich in omega-3s, zinc, and vitamin B (like salmon, nuts, and leafy greens) can promote a balanced scalp.
Be Patient!
Fixing oily hair isn’t an overnight process—it takes time for your scalp to adjust. But with the right routine, you’ll notice less grease and more fresh, bouncy hair days.
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE
