5 Tips to Keep Oily Hair Clean without Overdrying
If you view your oily hair as a curse, think again – it’s actually more ideal to have hair that is slightly oily than hair that is too dry. Nonetheless, the buildup of oils can make hair look “greasy,” which is not an image of beauty. Below, you will learn some expert tips for managing your oily hair to the best of your ability so you can look amazing every day.
#1 – Shampoo Appropriately
If your hair is very oily, you may want to shampoo daily using a very gentle shampoo, but for most people, every other day is enough. Rather than lathering and immediately rinsing, try lathering and waiting two to three minutes for the chemicals in the shampoo called surfactants to penetrate and break down the oils in your hair. This will do a far better job of removing them and it will prevent excessive oil buildup.
#2 – Clarify Once a Month
Even though you shampoo every day, you should also make monthly clarifying part of your routine – especially if you use hair products each day. These shampoos are designed to clean more deeply than a standard shampoo, effectively stripping your hair of extra oils and leftover hair product buildup. If you don’t want to spend extra money on a clarifying shampoo, you can add a tablespoon of baking soda to your favorite shampoo, then leave it on for two to three minutes.
#3 – Try an Astringent
If it seems that your hair appears shiny and greasy just a few hours after washing, you may need to take an extra step. Astringents are designed to do more than just remove oil; they close the pores and vastly reduce the production of oil. Many haircare experts will recommend natural astringents like lemon juice or even vinegar, and you can also use a mix of witch hazel and Listerine mouthwash on your scalp once every few days after you have shampooed, conditioned, and rinsed your hair.
#4 – Be Choosy with Your Conditioner
Not all conditioners are created equal. Whereas some are water-based and do not build up at all on your scalp, others contain waxes and other products that are difficult to wash away completely, which can lead to even oilier hair. Be sure that you choose a water-based conditioner and apply it only at the ends of your hair. If you need to detangle, skip the over-the-counter products and opt for some extra virgin olive oil instead.
#5 – Invest in a Good Dry Shampoo
Dry shampoos contain ingredients designed to absorb excess oil before brushing it out, and there are many, many brands from which to choose. Each one has its own unique set of benefits, so before making your purchase, be sure to take it up with your favorite trusted stylist. He or she can make some recommendations as to the best products for your unique needs.
Oily hair can be both a blessing and a curse. You’ll need to shampoo it more frequently, and you’ll need to be choosy with the products you use, but you generally won’t have to deal with the itching and flaking that occurs when your scalp is too dry. The five tips above will go a long way toward making your oily hair more manageable without sacrificing the shine.