Oily hair is hair that appears greasy or wet.
It triggers when your scalp’ssebaceous(oil) glandsproduce excess oil.
Common causes include washing infrequently and hormonal fluctuations.
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This article covers causes and treatments for oily hair.
It also explains the best way to style oily hair and which products can worsen it.
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Causes: Why Is My Hair Oily?
While common causes of oily hair includehair-washing routines, some medical issues can also lead to it.
The same may be true for some people with oily hair.
Pay attention if it occurs in a cyclic pattern.
If so, your hormones may be to blame.
Similarly,testosteroneincreases oil production.
It makes sense then that those greasy symptoms would extend to the hair, making it appear oily.
In addition, another related symptom is excess sweating.
If you sweat on your scalp, you will also likely notice greasy hair.
Which Shampoo and Conditioner Makes Oily Hair Worse?
To keep hair from getting greasy, keep shampoo concentrated on the scalp to wash away the scalp oil.
Why Does My Hair Get Oily So Fast?
Some people producescalp sebumfaster than others.
This could be due to genetics.
What About Styling and Texture Products?
The wrong product can make oily hair look greasy instantly.
Avoid weighty pomades, waxes, and gels.
And steer clear of hair oils.
Opt instead for lighter hairsprays and mousses.
These include:
How many days a week should you wash oily hair?
It depends on your hair jot down.
For those with African American hair, aim for every one to two weeks.
Over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription dandruff shampoos may resolve an oily scalp if you haveseborrheic dermatitis.
If you have a scalp yeast infection,antifungal medicationto patch up the infection may also fix greasy hair.
For any hair length, covering your scalp is another good option.
Go for scarves, headbands, hats, and hair clips.
Parting your hair on the side instead of the middle may also cover more of your oily roots.
Summary
Oily hair occurs from too much scalp oil.
This most commonly happens from washing too infrequently.
But it can also occur from hormonal imbalances and some skin and health-related conditions.
2023;23(1):292. doi:10.1186/s12905-023-02395-z
World Health Organization.Polycystic ovary syndrome.
National Eczema Association.Seborrheic dermatitis.
Cleveland Clinic.Scalp yeast infection.
American Parkinson’s Disease Association.Sweating and other skin problems in people with Parkinson’s disease.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.Tips for healthy hair.
MedlinePlus.Dandruff, cradle cap, and other scalp conditions.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.Black hair: tips for everyday care.
2021;7(3):183-193. doi:10.1159/000512786
