How to Deal with an Oily Scalp

Wash more frequently with a clarifying shampoo and avoid over-conditioning the roots.

Stop apologizing for your oily scalp—it means you'll age better and your hair will always look healthy when properly maintained.

1. Adjust your washing frequency. Wash your hair every other day or daily if needed. The myth that frequent washing causes more oil production is false—your sebaceous glands operate independently of your washing routine. Listen to your scalp, not outdated advice.
2. Use a clarifying shampoo. Choose a shampoo designed to cut through oil buildup without stripping your hair completely. Focus the product on your scalp and roots where oil accumulates. Your lengths rarely need aggressive cleansing.
3. Condition strategically. Apply conditioner only from mid-length to ends, never on your scalp or roots. Heavy conditioning products on an already oily scalp will weigh down your hair and make the problem worse.
4. Rinse thoroughly. Spend extra time rinsing to ensure no product residue remains on your scalp. Leftover shampoo and conditioner can mix with your natural oils to create a greasy film that looks worse than the original problem.