Almost everyone finds greasy hair difficult to live with — it’s hard to style, doesn’t look clean, and sometimes it can be a pain just to wash it. But just once you get to know that greasy-feeling hair, you will really understand how annoying it can be — believe me, been there, done that. And while most think greasy hair is a matter of care, those who were able to get rid of it have realized that it’s more than that.
Washing your hair more often won’t make it less greasy, and skipping your conditioner won’t solve anything. Period. If you really want to get rid of greasy hair once forever, you need to take the game to the next level. That means starting with the basics and understanding the causes of greasy hair so that you can cut them off. Shall we start?
Why is my hair greasy?
If your hair is oilier than it should be it means the amount of oil your scalp produces cross the limit lines. At the hair roots are situated the sebaceous glands that produce a certain amount of sebum to keep the scalp hydrated. But sometimes, the volume of oil produced is higher, and the hair tends to get a slick appearance, making it look dirty. Yep, no one wants that. A few can be the reasons that your hair produces more sebum than it should — from hormonal dysfunctions to hair type, hygiene habits, or other lifestyle factors. But we’re here to cover you with some tips on how to clear out that excess sebum and get rid of greasy hair forever.
How to get rid of greasy hair
A lot of hair products allow the rebalancing of hair oil secretion. For instance, algae or plants such as nettle, chamomile, or rosemary are known to regulate sebum production and calm the scalp. It’s also important to avoid the use of hair products containing proteins or substances that reconstitute the lipid film, such as oils or silicones. They make the hair too tight and would only worsen the condition.
Use translucent shampoos and avoid hair products that are too creamy. From time to time, remove excess oil from your hair and scalp with a clay mask. The clay absorbs the oil and is great for fighting oily hair.
But there’s much more you can do to eliminate greasy hair:
Finish by rinsing with cold water
Unlike hot water, which promotes fat production, water at lower temperatures closes the cuticle and increases blood flow, improving the appearance of your hair. This issue should also be transferred to the hairdryer or other heated tools; better use them at a low temperature. I know it’s going to take longer, but in the long run, it’ll pay off.
Exfoliate your scalp
It’s necessary to exfoliate the scalp at least once a week to avoid excess oil and prevent dandruff. Check this brush on Amazon made with silicone tips that allow you to massage your scalp to promote blood circulation and, at the same time, remove dead cells and residual accumulated dirt.
Don’t rub your hair too much when washing
Although you might think that rubbing your hair will remove all the sebum, this is not the case. Ideally, you should wash your hair in gentle, circular motions. It helps increase blood flow and remove sebum deposits.
Use the right products
One of the fundamental steps for controlling excess hair grease is to use the right products targeting greasy hair. As mentioned, it’s not a question of eliminating the oil with an aggressive product that irritates the scalp but instead opting for a product that cleans and moisturizes without weighing down or giving a sensation of grease. For that, using a special shampoo that only contains natural ingredients is ideal. That’s why I recommend an organic shampoo, free of sulfates, colorants, or silicones, preferably with mint extract for hair with a tendency to become greasy. Also, the mint leaf extract will give you a refreshing and purifying effect.
Please don’t touch it
Whether it’s for styling or as a distraction, touching your hair with your hands is a ubiquitous gesture. But this act, which may seem totally harmless, makes your hair dirty and can significantly increase the caking of your hair. So, you know, hands-off.
One trick that can help is wearing your hair up, either in a ponytail or a bun. Headbands and scarves can also help. Another trick for days when you feel your hair is greasy but you don’t have time to wash it is to use a dry shampoo. Apply it to your roots and gently massage it with your fingertips a little bit. Voilà, you’re given an extra day of freshness.
Take care of your diet
As you know, your diet decisively affects your whole body, and your hair was not going to be an exception. Bet on a diet rich in unprocessed foods, vegetables, and fruits, and leave aside the ultra-processed ones rich in saturated fats, added sugars, and refined flours. You will feel much better from the inside out, I promise.
The takeaway
To end, if your oily hair has become a severe problem, visit a dermatologist. He or she can prescribe medication that regulates sebaceous gland secretion according to your needs.
