Sebum, produced by sebaceous glands located just under the surface of the skin, is the hair's natural conditioner. Although sebum keeps your hair smooth, elastic and glossy, the sebaceous glands can sometimes work overtime, causing hair to look greasy. Excessive sebum can be caused by many factors, including puberty, stress, diet, hormones or overuse of hair care products. If a few simple techniques don't alleviate the problem, speak with a dermatologist, who may be able to suggest products or treatments to help manage excessive oil production.
Step 1
Shampoo your hair every day, using a shampoo formulated for oily hair. Select a shampoo containing sodium lauryl sulfate or ammonium, which will help to dry the hair, suggests Health Services at Columbia University.
Step 2
Massage the shampoo into your hair, then allow the lather to remain for 5 minutes, suggests the University of Maryland Medical Center. Shampoo more than once a day if your hair is especially oily.
Step 3
Avoid use of hair conditioner. If you feel that conditioner is necessary, use a conditioner for oily hair. Use a small amount and massage the conditioner only into the ends of your hair. Don't apply conditioner to the roots of your hair, advises Columbia University.
Step 4
Comb or brush your hair briefly and only as much as is minimally necessary. Avoid raking the comb or brush over your scalp, as doing so will loosen the oil and transfer it through your hair.
Step 5
Slow down sebum production by applying a mild astringent directly to the scalp, recommends MotherNature.com. Use a mixture of equal parts mouthwash and witch hazel, applied to the scalp with cotton balls or cotton cosmetic pads.
Things You'll Need
- Shampoo for oily hair
- Conditioner for oily hair (optional)
- Mouthwash
- Witch hazel
- Cotton balls or cotton cosmetic pads
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