Oily hair is a common concern that affects men and women of all ages. That feeling of hair that looks dirty even right after washing, the “greasy” look that ruins any style, and the need to wash frequently… sound familiar?
In this article we tell you everything you need to know about oily hair: why it gets dirty so fast, what to do to slow down sebum production, and which professional products really work (tested in our salon).
🧠 Why does hair become oily?
The main cause is excess sebum production by the sebaceous glands of the scalp. Sebum is important: it protects, nourishes and hydrates the skin and hair. But when produced in excess, it becomes a problem.
Most common causes:
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Genetic factors (yes, you can inherit them)
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Hormones and stress
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Using the wrong or overly harsh shampoos
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Washing too often
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A diet high in fats or sugars
🧴 How to care for oily hair: practical tips
1. Choose the right shampoo
Use a shampoo formulated for oily hair, gentle yet purifying. Avoid aggressive products with too much SLS or strong fragrances: they can make the problem worse by stimulating even more sebum.
✅ Tested in our salon: L'Oreal Scalp Advanced Shampoo Anti-Oiliness – leaves the scalp clean without a dry feel.
2. Avoid washing too often
It may seem odd, but washing hair every day can increase sebum production. Try spacing out washes and use a natural dry shampoo between washes.
3. Don't touch your hair too much
The sebum from your hands transfers to your hair and makes it greasier. Avoid constant brushing or running your hands through your hair.
4. Diet and hydration
Drinking plenty of water and limiting sugars, fried foods and dairy can significantly improve the situation. Hair beauty starts from within.
🔍 Mistakes to avoid if you have oily hair
🚫 Using shampoos for dry hair
🚫 Applying conditioner to the scalp (only on lengths!)
🚫 Using water that is too hot when washing
🚫 Covering hair too often (beanies, hats, helmets)
🌿 Best professional products for oily hair
In our salon we try every product before recommending it. Here are our top 3 must-haves for oily hair:
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Natural sebum-regulating shampoo – with nettle and tea tree
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Detox scalp spray for oily scalp – use twice a week
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Purifying pre-shampoo scrub – removes buildup and dead cells
✨ Exclusive benefits when you buy from us online:
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Cash on delivery available (Italy only)
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Returns within 90 days
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Shipping in 24/48 hours
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Pay in interest-free installments with Klarna
- Free samples to try with every order.
- Stylist tips and product news delivered straight to your email
❤️ Our experience matters
We are hairstylists for 4 generations (since 1914). Our products are not chosen at random: we test them in our salon, on real clients with real needs. That's why we can only recommend the best for beautiful, healthy and lightweight hair for longer.
Have questions about your oily hair? Write to us or send a photo: we’ll help you choose the right products for you.
💡 Why you should never skimp on products for oily hair
When it comes to oily hair, one of the biggest mistakes is trying to take shortcuts with supermarket shampoos or very cheap products.
We know how tempting it is to save a few euros, but unfortunately – especially in this case – a low price often costs your scalp and hair dearly.
🧴 Cheap shampoos: what's really inside?
Many low-cost products contain:
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Harsh sulfates that strip too much and irritate
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Heavy silicones that suffocate the scalp
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Synthetic fragrances that can cause reactions or worsen sebum production
The result?
Hair that gets dirty even faster, an irritated scalp and a never-ending cycle of washes that never solve the problem.
🌟 Quality shows (and feels) from the first wash
When you use a quality professional product, like those we've used in our salon for generations, results are visible immediately: lighter hair, a fresher scalp, and styles that last longer.
🔝 Routines tested and recommended by us (made for you):
✔️ L'Oréal Professionnel Anti-Oilness Routine
A specific routine for those fighting excess sebum and hair that gets greasy quickly.
👉 Step 1 – Shampoo Anti-Oilness
A rebalancing professional cleanser with purifying yet gentle ingredients. Removes excess sebum without aggressing the scalp.
👉 Step 2 – Mask Anti-Oilness
A lightweight mask with rebalancing and mattifying effects: nourishes the lengths without weighing them down and helps keep the scalp feeling fresh longer.
💬 “We created this routine thinking of those who want a professional, effective solution suitable for frequent use. Tested and approved in our salon.”
🔔 Stay updated and take care of your hair with us!
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Oily Hair
1. How often should I wash my hair if I have an oily scalp?
Ideally 2–3 times a week. Washing too often stimulates the sebaceous glands even more. Use a sebum-balancing shampoo and try to stretch the time between washes.
2. Can I use conditioner if I have oily hair?
Yes, but only on the lengths and ends. Absolutely avoid applying it to the scalp to prevent worsening sebum production.
3. What is the best shampoo for oily hair?
The most effective are professional shampoos formulated specifically for this issue, such as L'Oréal Serie Expert Pure Resource or Redken Amino Mint. They are gentle yet purifying, without aggressing the scalp.
4. Do supermarket shampoos work for oily hair?
Generally no. They often contain overly aggressive ingredients or silicones that create a "false clean" effect. It's better to invest in a quality professional product.
5. Is sebum always a problem?
No! Sebum is natural and necessary for hair health. It only becomes a problem when produced in excess.
6. Is it true that touching your hair often makes it oiler?
Yes. Hands transfer sebum, dirt and impurities. Avoid touching the scalp frequently or constantly combing your hair.
7. Are there specific treatments for an oily scalp?
Absolutely yes. You can use purifying scrubs, detox lotions or rebalancing ampoules designed to regulate sebum production. Better if recommended by an experienced stylist.
8. Can stress cause oily hair?
Yes. Stress influences the hormones that regulate sebum production. A healthy lifestyle also helps hair health.
9. Is hot or cold water better for washing oily hair?
Use lukewarm water. Water that is too hot stimulates sebum production, while water that is too cold does not cleanse thoroughly.
10. Can I alternate two different shampoos?
Of course. A good strategy is to alternate a purifying shampoo with a gentle rebalancing one, to avoid stressing the scalp too much.
