Tips On Treating Oily Hair

In moderate amounts, your hair's natural oil, called sebum, keeps your hair soft, glossy and resilient. When too much builds up, though, it can weigh your hair down, making it appear dull and lifeless and feel greasy. Whether your hair suddenly seems oilier or you've dealt with oily hair all your life, the right shampoo and hair care routine can help you manage the problem.

Shampoo Selection

Shampoos formulated for oily hair clean more effectively than regular shampoos, note experts from Columbia University. Clear shampoos, too, cut grease better and leave less residue. Good shampoo choices for oily hair include formulas containing detergents like sodium lauryl sulfate or ammonium or natural astringents like lemon, tea tree or peppermint essential oils. You may have to try several brands to find one that works best for your hair, though.

Washing Oily Hair

Shampooing daily prevents excess oils from building up. Massage the shampoo into your scalp to create a lather and let it sit for at least five minutes. Rinse thoroughly to avoid residue build-up. If your hair's very oily, you may need to shampoo a second time or later the same day. Most greasy hair doesn't need conditioner, but if you decide to use it, apply it only to the ends of your hair.

Extra Oil-Cutting Treatments

After washing your hair and rinsing out the shampoo, rinse your hair with a natural astringent. You can make your own by adding the juice of two lemons to 1 qt. water or 1 tsp. vinegar to 1 pint water, recommend experts from the website MotherNature.com. Pour the mixture through your hair, then rinse it out with water. Alternatively, combine equal parts witch hazel and mouthwash for an oil-reducing and disinfecting treatment. Dip a cotton ball or pad in the mixture and apply it to your scalp, then rinse it out.

Styling to Reduce Oiliness

Brushing and combing spread oils from your scalp through your hair, so brush and comb as infrequently as possible. Keep your hands out of your hair to avoid transferring sweat and skin oils onto your hair. To set your hairstyle, skip the pore-clogging mousse and use fresh beer instead, advise experts from MotherNature.com. A hairstyle with plenty of body, preferably a style with layers on the top, also helps to keep your hair from looking stringy and matted.

Managing the Causes

While genetics and puberty can cause excessively oily hair, other factors can also contribute to the problem. High levels of the hormone androgen can increase oil production. Both oral contraceptives and stress increase this levels of this hormone. If you take oral birth control, ask your health care provider about contraceptive options that affect oil production less. To keep your stress levels in check, learn relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga, or look into acupuncture for stress management.