Pimples result when your skin makes too much oil and clogs your pores with bacteria and dead skin. If you have oily hair, you most likely have oily skin as well. Furthermore, allowing your oily hair to touch your face can contribute to breakouts, as it puts even more grease on your skin. By keeping your hair clean and avoiding products that make it even oilier, you may be able to reduce your acne.
Hair Care
In addition to keeping your hair off your face, you can use certain hair care methods to help combat oil. Wash your hair once a day with a clear shampoo, which will decrease the chances of it leaving behind any pore-clogging residue. Work the shampoo into your scalp and through your hair, giving yourself a gentle massage to help loosen any dirt and grease. Once you have rinsed the shampoo and dried your hair, apply an astringent to reduce excess oil on your scalp. Use cotton balls to dab on equal parts of witch hazel and mouthwash, which have astringent and antiseptic properties, respectively.
Products to Avoid
Do not use greasy hair products like pomades, oils or gels that are oil-based. These not only make your hair greasier, but they can also drip onto your face, overload your pores and lead to acne. You might also try avoiding conditioners, which can weigh your hair down and possibly cause your scalp to produce more oil.
Complementary Skin Care
While keeping your hair clean and oil-free can decrease your breakouts, you will need to take care of your face as well. Wash it twice a day with an acne-fighting cleanser, and apply a cream or lotion that contains salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which will help clear up your acne. Use an oil-free moisturizer if your skin starts to flake or peel, and do not touch your face during the day. Talk to your doctor if you are concerned about your pimples or feel that you need prescription-strength treatments.
Considerations
Not every shampoo or acne product works for everyone, and you may need to try several before you find the ones that are right for your hair and skin. Additionally, if you are on birth control or other kinds of hormone medications, these may be contributing to your oily skin and hair. Discuss your symptoms and medications with your health care provider, who will help you determine what actions to take.
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