Guide: How to get rid of greasy hair and a oily scalp

Avoid greasy hair and scalp

Do you suffer from an oily scalp? Does your hair often hang flat and heavy on your head? Greasy hair can be a real nightmare and it can have negative consequences for your self-confidence. Fortunately, there are ways to avoid the nightmare. Read here how!

Do you also find that your hair looks greasy even though you wash it often? And do you often feel that your hairstyle looks flat and slapped? Then you are not alone. Lots of people suffer from greasy hair, but it can still be hugely frustrating.

Would you like to have a beautiful and grease-free hairstyle? Then you've come to the right place! The market for hair products is huge and they all promise gold and green forests. Unfortunately, not all products and techniques are equally good – and some can even make the problems worse. So read along here and find out how to get rid of greasy hair and bring back the shine to your gorgeous hair!

What does it mean to have greasy hair?

When you have greasy hair, your locks often look limp, flat, and dark. It becomes more difficult to make a nice hairstyle. And you might think that your hair looks unwashed and dirty.

Since the fat usually comes from the scalp, it starts at the hair roots. This means that it is the top of your head that gets the oil first and then it moves down the hair shafts. Factors such as hormonal changes, excessive use of styling products, and environmental conditions can also contribute to excess oil production, making it important to address the root causes for effective management.

Greasy hair

Is there a connection between greasy hair and an itchy scalp?

Most people associate itching and irritation with a dry scalp, but the opposite can also be the case. If your scalp is oily, it can result in the production of dandruff . And oily dandruff on the scalp can be extremely itchy.

Therefore, you shouldn’t immediately think that you have a dry scalp just because it itches. It could just as easily be the other way around. Therefore, check your scalp before choosing whether to look for solutions for dry hair or greasy hair.

Why does my hair get greasy?

There can be several different reasons why your hair becomes greasy. And sometimes it happens due to a combination of several things. Below you can read about the most common reasons why hair clumps together and becomes boring to look at. And then you can see if you can recognize some of them from your own everyday life.

Do you struggle with greasy hair and/or an oily scalp?

Yes, it’s a daily battle

Sometimes, but it’s manageable

Only during certain times (e.g., stress)

Rarely

No, I’ve got it under control

You wash your hair too often

Have you also tried taking a thorough shower, but still get greasy hair after day one? You may think that your hair becomes dull because you are not thorough enough in the bath, but it is actually the other way around. You can easily get greasy hair after washing if you wash it too often.

Your scalp is full of natural oils. It's what keeps your strands healthy and shiny. But an overproduction of these oils can make your hairstyle look greasy. Therefore, it can help to wash the hair to remove the oils.

BUT! If you wash your hair too often, you remove too many of the natural oils. Therefore, the body begins to produce larger and larger amounts to compensate, and this results in greasier hair. It thus becomes a vicious circle where you wash and wash and where the body produces more and more oil. Consider spacing out your washes and using dry shampoo to absorb excess oil between washes to help break the cycle.

Hair wash

You have fine and straight hair

Your hair type naturally plays a big role in how your hairstyle looks. And it also plays a role in how quickly it is weighed down after a wash. If your hair is smooth and fine, the oil slides easily from the scalp down the hair shafts. There is no curl or rough texture to stop it.

You are using the wrong hair products

Unfortunately, not all haircare products are equally good if you suffer from an oily scalp. Some ingredients can contribute to making your hair more oily and moist. And that is the opposite of what you want!

That is why we have developed the Grow and Glow series . Here you get a shampoo, a conditioner and a hair serum with natural ingredients that keep your hair beautiful and healthy. And they can also help you avoid a greasy and matted hairstyle!

Our Grow and Glow range contains ingredients that strengthen the microflora of the hair, so you get a balanced scalp. This balance is key to regulating natural oil production, ensuring that your scalp remains neither too oily nor too dry.

Your lifestyle and diet also play a role

Hair grows from the inside out – and therefore your lifestyle also plays a big role in problems with the hairstyle and the scalp! If you live on fast food and perhaps also get too little sleep, you will soon be able to feel it on your hair. The body needs the right nutrients to make the hair healthy and beautiful. Inadequate nutrition and stress can lead to weakened hair strands, increased shedding, and even a dull appearance.

If you want to ensure that your body can produce normal hair, you can eat hair vitamins. They contain e.g. biotin, which i.a. contributes to maintaining normal hair. In addition, they taste delicious of strawberries, so you rarely forget them.

Hormonal changes

Hormones may be the cause of your greasy hair. Your sebaceous glands can become overactive and produce an excessive amount of sebum as a result of hormonal changes in your body. When hormonal imbalances occur, many people experience, among other things, pimples on the scalp.

It is typical for young people to have a lot of hormones fluctuating, but when it comes to adults, there are often certain reasons why the body's hormones work inappropriately.

Be aware of these things, which can be hormone-disrupting:

Stress for a long time.
Depression and similar mental illnesses.
Menstruation.
Medicine.
Damp working environment or home environment.

How do you get rid of oily scalp and greasy hair?

There are lots of products and good advice online about what to do if your hair is a mess. And it can be difficult to see which advice you should follow. Therefore, we have collected some of the best tips on how to avoid greasy hair. Experiment to find what works for you.

10 good tips to avoid greasy hair oily scalp

1. Do not wash your hair more often than 2-3 times a week

One of the most frequently asked questions about hair washing is how often should you wash your hair? Do you have to wash it every day? Every other day? Never? And there is no one right answer. It depends on your hair type and your lifestyle, but for most people 2-3 times is optimal.

If you wash it more often, you remove the natural oils in the scalp. It can damage your hair growth and result in an overproduction of oils in the scalp, leading to greasy hair. If, on the contrary, you wash too infrequently, sweat and dirt will also cause an oily scalp. So it is a balance.

Do you exercise often? Then 2-3 hair washes per week may feel too infrequent. Here you can advantageously consider using a dry shampoo or washing your hair without shampoo. Dry shampoo can help absorb excess oil and extend the freshness of your hair between washes. In this way, you can extend the time between hair washes a little longer.

2. Choose a good shampoo for greasy hair

As mentioned earlier, the right hair products are alpha and omega for hair health. Therefore, it is important that you choose the best shampoo for greasy hair . And here it is a good idea to look for nutritious ingredients such as:

Aloe vera
Rosemary
Camomile
Stinging nettle

That's why we also use aloe vera in our Grow and Glow Shampoo against greasy hair. It adds the necessary moisture to the hair roots without leaving you with an oily and greasy scalp. And it results in shiny curls, a nice hairstyle and increased hair growth.

3. Only use conditioner on your ends

Do you also use conditioner throughout your hair? Then you are making a huge mistake - especially if you suffer from greasy hair. Balsam works as a moisturizer for the hair. It adds moisture and nourishment, but if you use too much of it, it can also make the skin oily.

Therefore, you should only use your conditioner on the ends of your hair if you have problems with greasy locks and a slapped hairstyle. Otherwise, the conditioner can help weigh your hair down instead of adding volume and shine.

You can also invest in a conditioner that works against oily skin. And there our Grow and Glow conditioner is a good choice. In addition to providing moisture, nourishment and shine, it can help balance your scalp's microflora. This balance prevents both overproduction and underproduction of the body's natural oils, supporting a healthier scalp environment.

4. Avoid the hair dryer as much as possible

If you are in a hurry, the hair dryer is a hugely practical tool. It dries the hairstyle, it adds volume and can make styling easier. Unfortunately, there are also some disadvantages to the hair dryer. And one of these is that it can increase the risk of a greasy hairstyle.

The hairdryer can help to dry out the hair. And as mentioned earlier, the lack of moisture and oil can result in a greasier scalp. Therefore, you should only use the hair dryer when absolutely necessary and otherwise let your locks air dry.

Do you think air drying takes too long? Then you can have great pleasure from investing in a microfibre towel . It not only absorbs more water than a regular towel, but is also gentler. By reducing drying time and minimizing friction, microfiber towels can help maintain smoothness and reduce the likelihood of frizz. With us you can buy smart microfibre towels in several beautiful colours. And then it's even sewn, so it's easy to put on and stays on the head. Also when you run around the house, get dressed and put on make-up!

5. Wash your hair twice in the shower

Few of us remember this in a busy everyday life, but you should actually wash your hair twice. The first hair wash removes dirt, grime and styling products from your scalp. With the second hair wash, the products penetrate and care for your scalp, providing essential moisture and nourishment for healthier hair.

Here it is also a good idea to use a scalp massage brush . It not only helps distribute hair products, but also increases blood flow and removes dandruff. By stimulating the scalp, it can promote healthier hair growth and create a balanced scalp environment. And then it feels super nice and comfortable to slide it through the scalp!

6. Avoid very hot water when you clean your hair in the shower

Most people know that hot water can damage the skin, but did you know that it can also damage your hair? If you have greasy hair, very hot water in the shower can exacerbate the problem by stimulating your scalp's sebaceous glands to produce even more oil. Hot water can also strip away essential moisture, leading to a dry scalp that compensates by producing excess oil.

A better solution is to turn down the heat when you wash your hair. Opting for lukewarm or cool water helps close the hair cuticle, resulting in smoother, shinier hair while minimizing excess oil production. This will help protect your scalp and hair from the harmful effects of hot water and maintain a healthier moisture balance.

7. Greasy hair & vinegar: Try using apple cider vinegar on your hair

It may sound strange to put vinegar in your hair, but it's an old household tip that can sometimes work. Apple cider vinegar can clean the hair of product residues and grease and help restore the scalp's natural pH balance.

Here's how you can use it:

Add 250 ml of water and 2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar to a spray bottle - shake it well.
Spray the liquid into the hair after washing the hair with shampoo and conditioner - focus on the scalp.
Massage it thoroughly into your scalp - and use your scalp massage brush.
Leave it on for 1-2 minutes, then rinse thoroughly - make sure to get it all out.

It's easy and fast, and it can actually have a surprisingly large and positive effect. And you don't have to worry about the smell - it disappears when your beautiful hair is dry again.

8. Greasy hair and aloe vera: Natural cleansing and soothing benefits

Aloe vera is renowned for its ability to cleanse the hair shaft effectively, removing excess sebum and product buildup without harming the hair strands. Its anti-inflammatory properties can soothe an irritated scalp, potentially reducing dandruff and promoting a healthier scalp environment. Incorporating aloe vera into your hair care routine can help manage greasiness while nourishing your hair and scalp.

Here's how you can use it:

Extract fresh aloe vera gel from an aloe leaf or use store-bought pure aloe vera gel.
Apply the gel directly to your scalp and hair, focusing on the roots where oil tends to accumulate.
Gently massage the gel into your scalp using your fingertips or a scalp massage brush to enhance absorption and stimulate blood circulation.
Leave it on for about 20-30 minutes to allow the nutrients to penetrate your scalp and hair.
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water, ensuring all the gel is washed out.
For best results, repeat this treatment 1-2 times a week.

Regular use of aloe vera can help control oiliness and promote healthier hair.

9. Greasy hair and rosemary oil: Balancing oil production and stimulating growth

Rosemary oil is celebrated for its potential to balance sebum production, making it beneficial for those with greasy hair. By improving blood circulation to the scalp, rosemary oil can stimulate hair follicles, encouraging hair growth and reducing hair loss. Its antimicrobial properties also help maintain a healthy scalp environment, preventing issues like dandruff that can accompany oily hair. Regular use of rosemary oil can lead to stronger, healthier hair with reduced greasiness.

Here's how you can use it:

Dilute a few drops of rosemary essential oil with a carrier oil such as jojoba or coconut oil (a 2% dilution is recommended, which is about 12 drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier oil).
Apply the mixture to your scalp, focusing on areas prone to oiliness.
Massage gently into your scalp using circular motions to enhance absorption and stimulate blood circulation.
Leave it on for at least 30 minutes; for deeper conditioning, you can leave it overnight.
Wash your hair with a mild shampoo to remove the oil mixture.
Use this treatment 1-2 times a week to help balance oil production and promote healthier hair growth.

Incorporating rosemary oil into your hair care routine can effectively manage greasiness and support overall scalp health.

10. Eat healthy and varied

When it comes to keeping your hair and scalp healthy, what you eat is just as important as what you don't eat. A diet high in unhealthy fats and processed foods can lead to oiliness and other scalp problems.

On the other hand, a healthy and varied diet is essential to maintain a normal scalp and hair. There are a few specific nutrients that are particularly important for keeping your scalp and hair normal. These include omega-3 fatty acids, zinc and biotin .

A healthy and varied diet is good for your scalp

Hairdresser's advice

Here, hairdresser and salon owner Maja Haldborg gives you the best tips and tricks for oily hair. Check out her instagram here.

What are your best tips for oily hair?

- Definitely my best advice is to be careful with excessive hair washing. When you wash your hair, you "degrease" your scalp, i.e. you remove your natural oil layer. Your body takes this as a signal to: I'm going to start producing more sebum (fat). Then you think: "Oh, it's time to wash it again! And voila, you're now in the vicious circle. Therefore, avoid daily hair washing. The optimum is 1-2 times a week. However, always remember to wash your hair twice with shampoo. The first time you wash, you remove dirt and grime and the second time the shampoo can work for exactly what you bought it for.

Another good and very important tip is to never go to bed with wet hair. Your scalp can't get rid of the moisture and it can create a very stuffy environment on your scalp, which can also lead to fungus and itching. One more tip is to think about how often you run your fingers through your hair... have you ever thought about it? It makes sense to try to avoid it as much as possible. All the things you touch during the day can actually make your hair even more oily.

If my hair gets greasy one day after washing it, what can I do?

- If you're one of those people who suffer from oily hair ALSO right after washing your hair, there could be several factors at play. 1. your hormonal balance can have a huge impact on your skin and hair. You may be suffering from pco(s), stress, pregnancy, medication, etc. You are not alone and it is completely normal that your hair may seem different or greasy quickly. 2. Despite the above, you can still do your best to eat a varied diet & remember regular vitamins/supplements. Look into adding some vitamins/supplements to your daily routine if you know you struggle to eat a varied diet. 3. Look at your product choice. Maybe the shampoo you're using isn't working for your hair. It might be too heavy for your hair. When it comes to shampoo choice, it's important to look for a shampoo that: Preferably free of sulphates & silicone, has a mild formula that doesn't irritate the skin, contains nourishing ingredients and isn't too heavy.

How to style your hair when you have an oily scalp

Imagine you are busy. You are going to an important event and you want to look good. You look in the mirror and see that your hair roots are dark and greasy. You don't have time to take a shower. What do you do?

It's every woman's nightmare scenario, and you're not the only one who's suddenly had to find a hat. But there are actually ways you can style your hair to hide the oiled look. And you can read about them here!

Brush your hair thoroughly and use a dry shampoo

If your hair is both tangled and greasy, it will never look good. Therefore, always start by brushing the straws well and thoroughly. And here you can benefit from using a good brush such as our Detangle Egg Brush . It is designed to get rid of even the worst hair knots - without wearing out the hair strands.

Then you can spray the hair with a little dry shampoo. Dry shampoo can quickly absorb excess oil, providing a refreshed look without the need for a full wash. It's not ideal to use too often, but it's good to have for emergencies. Feel free to choose a variant without too much perfume or silicone, as this can contribute to the problem of greasy hair.

Choose a hairstyle that hides the hair roots

Not all hairstyles are equally good at covering up an oily scalp. Loose hair is e.g. rarely a good idea if the scalp is oily. Consider one of the following hairstyles instead:

Tight, high ponytail: Brush the hair tightly back. Gather it in a high ponytail with a good elastic. Feel free to add a little oil to the tips if they look dry.

Braiding with a nice hair band: Like the ponytail, the braid is a good choice, as you gather the hair back and thus cover the scalp. Finish the look with a nice, colorful hair band. It will take the focus from the hair to the hair band.
Half loose, half in a bun: Take a third or half of your hair and put it up in a small bun. Let the rest of the locks hang loosely underneath. Like the braid and the ponytail, it will cover your scalp, and so it's a smart and modern look.

Hair clips and silk scarves: It can quickly feel awkward to walk around with a hat indoors, but the idea of covering the hair is a good one. Therefore, use some nice hair clips or a patterned silk scarf instead. It has the same effect and you can match it to the rest of your outfit.

Now you have read about the causes of oily hair. You know what you can do to avoid it. And you've got some tips on how to style it in an emergency. So hopefully you're all set to tackle your hair woes and head out into the world with healthy and shiny locks!

How to get rid of greasy hair in between washes

Managing greasy hair between washes can be challenging, but several effective strategies can help maintain a fresh appearance:

Use dry shampoo: Dry shampoo absorbs excess oil, adding volume and freshness to your hair. Apply it to the roots, allow it to sit for a few minutes, then brush through to distribute evenly.
Use blotting papers: Oil-absorbing sheets, typically used for facial oil, can be pressed onto the scalp to remove excess grease without disturbing your hairstyle.
Avoid over-touching hair: Frequently running your hands through your hair can transfer oils from your skin to your hair, exacerbating greasiness.
Use a boar bristle brush: This type of brush can help distribute natural oils from the scalp down the hair shaft, reducing the concentration at the roots.
Refresh with a hair mist: Light, alcohol-based hair mists can help absorb oil and add a pleasant fragrance, giving your hair a refreshed feel.

Incorporating these methods can help manage greasy hair between washes, keeping your locks looking clean and voluminous.

Frequently asked questions about oily hair

Can stress cause greasy hair?

Yes, stress can cause greasy hair. When the body is stressed, it produces more sebum, which is an oily, waxy substance that coats the scalp and hair. This excess oil can accumulate on the scalp and hair shafts, making the hair appear greasy and unmanageable. People with high stress levels may find that their hair becomes increasingly oily over time as the hormones triggered by anxiety increase sebum production and make it harder for natural oils to wash away.

Other symptoms related to stress such as poor diet, lack of sleep or dehydration can also contribute to excessive adiposity. Additionally, when people are stressed, they may not take proper care of their hair, which can contribute to oil build-up. Regularly cleansing the scalp and using products designed for oily hair can help reduce the effects of excess sebum production caused by stress.

Which shampoo should I use if I have greasy hair?

Fortunately, we have written a whole blog post about what you should pay attention to with your shampoo when you have greasy hair. Understanding the right ingredients, such as sulfate-free options or those containing balancing botanicals, can make a significant difference in managing excess oil. Read the blog post about shampoo for oily hair here.