No matter what you use on your hair, you continue to be plagued by an oily scalp. According to MotherNature.com, the more hair you have, the more sebaceous glands you have, too, and these produce oil and lead to a greasy scalp. Your hair's texture and changes in weather conditions can exacerbate this condition. Shampooing regularly with a product formulated especially for an oily scalp can help combat the problem.
Risk Factors
If you have thick, straight hair, your scalp is more likely to produce excess oil. According to dermatologist Dr. Thomas Goodman, Jr., oil clings more easily to fine, smooth hair than curly or frizzy hair. Too much heat styling or living in a hot, humid climate can increase your scalp's oil production and make it greasier. Excessive stress or hormonal changes can send your oil glands into overdrive as well.
Types
To help control oil on your hair and scalp, look for a clear shampoo, which Dr. Goodman says works better at getting rid of excess oil than a thick, creamy one. Clear shampoos are less likely to have rich ingredients, which can leave behind buildup and make your oily scalp worse. Also avoid shampoos that contain strong detergents or soaps, which dermatologist Dr. David E. Bank warns can rob your scalp of moisture and actually cause it to produce more oil. Instead, look for gentle shampoos or those medicated with salicylic acid, which can help rid your scalp of buildup and keep follicles clear.
Technique
Shampoo your hair with a gentle product once a day, and increase to twice a day if you live in a humid climate or during the warmer months of the year. Switch to the salicylic acid product every other day. Wet your hair and scalp with tepid water, and massage a dime-sized amount of product into your scalp and through your hair. Use the pads of your fingers to rub the shampoo into your scalp to help it reach into your follicles to rid them of excess oil. Rinse the product out well when you're finished to avoid leaving behind any residue.
Additional Tips
Avoid thick, heavy styling products, which can build up on your scalp and increase oil production, according to MayoClinic.com. These include pomades, waxes, mousses and products designed to make your hair look shinier. Instead, look for a product designed to thicken your hair, which hairstylist Jimmy Paul says will help combat oil.
Considerations
People with oily scalps are more likely to develop dandruff, advises MayoClinic.com. Malassezia, the yeast that causes dandruff, grows on the oily areas of your skin and can lead to a flaky, itchy scalp. Shampooing daily and using a salicylic acid-containing product as well can help prevent this. Talk to your doctor if you feel you need a stronger treatment.
