Oily Hair & Scalp

While your body naturally produces oil to keep your hair and skin soft, excess production can have a negative effect. Oily hair and scalp can cause your hair to appear greasy or clumped, making styling more difficult. These hair occurrences can be the result of both lifestyle factors and genetic predisposition. Knowing how to care for this cosmetic concern can help to alleviate oily hair problems.

Causes

While most people have 80,000 to 90,000 hairs on their head, those who experience greasy hair tend to have more, according to "The Doctors Book of Home Remedies." Those with fine hair, particularly blondes, tend to have more hairs that in turn means more oil glands. Hormonal fluctuations, such as increased production of androgens--a typically male hormone--increases the likelihood you will experience greasy hair. Your hair's texture also can influence greasy hair. Those with curly hair experience less oil on the hair and scalp than those with straight hair.

Treatments

Regularly massaging your scalp while you shampoo your hair can help to encourage oil to secrete from the hair follicles. The shampoo can then remove this oil from the scalp and hair, according to "The Doctors Book of Home Remedies." Use a shampoo that is clear or easy to see through. A very thick, opaque shampoo can indicate that it adds residue to your scalp, causing increased oiliness. Using a conditioner only on the ends of your hair also can prevent buildup on the hair near the scalp, which tends to be greasier.

Home Remedies

Several treatments for oily hair and scalp are available in your home, according to the "Doctors Book of Home Remedies." These include squeezing two lemons into a quart of purified water and applying to the hair during your shower. Mix 1 tsp. of apple cider vinegar in 1 pint of water and pour over the hair at the end of your shower, paying carefully attention to cleanse the scalp. Leave on for several minutes, then rinse away.

Habits to Avoid

Greasy hair and scalp builds up on a daily basis. If you experience these issues, washing the hair regularly -- typically daily is necessary, according to Hair Boutique. Ensure you do not apply excess cosmetics or hair products, which can contribute to greasiness. Makeup that contains oil can contribute to a greasy or oily scalp. Other habits to avoid include refraining from excess combing or brushing of the hair, which can transfer oil from the scalp to the rest of the hair, making it appear oilier, according to The Daily Glow.

Warning

In some instances, chronic greasy hair can lead to other hair conditions, including hair loss, scalp breakout or dandruff, according to Hair Boutique. If over-the-counter treatments fail to alleviate your greasy hair or you begin to observe symptoms of these conditions, see your physician who can recommend a stronger treatment method, according to The Daily Glow.