Oily scalp occurs when the subaceous glands in the scalp overproduce sebum, also known as oil. The sebum coats the hair follicles and shafts. Normal oil production will keep the scalp and hair healthy while overproduction will cause the hair to look dirty and lifeless. People with straight hair are more prone to a full head of flat and lifeless hair caused by oil since the oils can spread to the hair shaft faster than it does in curly hair. Following a few simple steps at home can significantly reduce the amount of oil production while leaving your scalp and hair healthy.
Step 1
Wash your hair frequently with a mild, oil-free shampoo. Washing every day to every other day will remove the excess oil. You are able to condition with a conditioner specifically made for oily hair. According to Dr. Lowell Goldsmith, M.D., a professor of dermatology and chairman of the Department of Dermatology at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, summertime's humidity increase causes sebum production to increase making washing hair twice daily advisable.
Step 2
Use styling products sparingly. These products contain oils and harsh chemicals that will worsen the condition and inhibit treatment. Try avoiding these products or limiting their use to allow excess oil to evaporate normally.
Step 3
Rinse hair with 1 cup of apple cider vinegar in 1 cup of water. David Daines, owner of the David Daines Salon in New York City, also suggests using lemon juice from two lemons mixed with 1 qt. of distilled water for a oil-free rinse. The lemon and vinegar rinses remove residue that could weigh down oily hair and also dry up excess oils.
Step 4
Massage the scalp during washing to remove buildup of oils and dead skin cells. This keeps the scalp clear of any pore-blocking problems that could cause irritation and scalp acne.
Step 5
Eat fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains to maintain proper nutrition. Avoid fried foods and sweets as they can affect hormones. Hormonal imbalance may be the cause of overproduction of oil in the scalp and eating healthy will help rebalance hormones.
Things You'll Need
- Mild, oil-free shampoo
- Conditioner for oily hair
- Apple cider vinegar
- Lemons
- Fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains
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