Healthy hair produces sebum (oil) and it hydrates the scalp and protects strands. The amount of oil produced generally depends on your hair type, your personal hygiene, your skincare routine, and your lifestyle choices.
When the sebum is overproduced, it results in excessive oiliness. It can be an underlying health condition in certain cases. Over time, this natural oil accumulates, particularly at the roots. This gives your hair a greasy appearance that some people associate with unclean hair.
You may notice that sometimes, even after washing, your hair still appears oily. There are several reasons behind greasy oily hair even after a wash.
If you have greasy hair and you feel that your hair is oilier than usual, continue reading this article. You will find the potential causes of oily hair and the best ways to control excess oil.
If you’re wondering what causes greasy oily hair or why does my hair gets oily so fast, this article is just for you.
What Does Greasy Hair Mean?
Greasy hair is coated with an excess quantity of sebum which is naturally produced by the sebaceous glands in the scalp. Oil is good for the scalp and prevents hair from becoming dry. But an excess layer makes hair look oily and greasy.
On the visual aspect, greasy hair has a shade that is dark and appears glossy or slick. Greasy hair collects excess oil that compels the hair strands to stick together. This makes the hair seem to have no volume.
The roots are often the first to start looking oily. On the other hand, the ends will still be relatively healthy looking. Other strands may appear tangled, stringy, limp, and dull.
Moreover, greasy hair tends to be heavy and sticky when touched. After washing, it can easily return to its oily state because of the over-production of sebum. This can make the hair look as though it has not been washed for a long time that has just been washed with shampoo.
Some common signs of greasy oily hair include:
Flatness
In general, the hair looks flat and lacks the volume and elasticity. Therefore, greasy oily hair is not considered healthy hair.
Dullness
The normal natural hair shine is replaced with oiliness and dullness of hair.
Stringy Texture
The hair could be greasy and limp. It also affects the edges or the hairline around the face area.
Such signs tend to give hair a greasy appearance regardless if it was washed a few hours or days ago. But don’t worry, with the right care, you can make your hair look healthier.
What Causes Greasy Hair?
Oily hair or greasy hair is caused by increased secretion of sebum on the scalp’s sebaceous glands. As discussed earlier, Sebum is a natural oil that protects and moisturizes your hair. Even though it’s good for hair, excessive amounts produced can cause hair to be greasy.
How Sebum Works in Your Hair:
Sebum is produced by tiny glands in your scalp, called sebaceous glands. It plays a vital role in protecting and moisturizing your hair and scalp, keeping them hydrated. However, when these glands produce excessive sebum, it can create a greasy, oily appearance.
How your hair absorbs and retains moisture also affects its oiliness. For example, low porosity hair tends to resist absorbing water or hair products, which can lead to product buildup and worsen the greasy look.
Excessive oil production in your scalp can result in:
- Oily roots and greasy hair.
- Blocked hair follicles, which may cause scalp issues like dandruff or even thinning hair.
- Hair loss or increased cases of scalp acne.
Genetics:
One cause of greasy hair was identified as more prominent than the rest, and that is your genetics.
If you wonder, “why does my hair get greasy so fast”, then it’s partly due to your family genes. This is because genetics are one of the main determining factors as to how sebaceous glands operate.
In some people, their sebaceous glands secrete the oil in larger amounts than in others. This can sometimes become a bit tricky when trying to maintain the hairstyle for longer durations.
Reasons Behind Your Hair Getting Oily So Fast
Many people, especially those with oily hair, find that they suffer from oily hair much faster than others. They often find themselves in a situation where they ask “why does my hair get oily so fast?” The following are some of the causes of greasy oily hair:
Overactive Sebaceous Glands
Possibly the most frequent cause of increased oil production is the overproduction of sebum by glands. These glands are stimulated by hormones and environmental stresses in the body. If your sebaceous glands are secreting sebum at a fast rate your hair becomes oily very fast.
Hormones
Menstrual cycle, pregnancy, usage of birth control pills, or other contraceptive measures cause hormonal changes. Therefore, they lead to increased production of sebum. This is why teenagers and young people find themselves dealing with greasy hair most of the time.
Diet
The wrong choice of food such as junk foods, or taking too much of dairy products also causes increased production of oils. Some of these foods stimulate inflammation of the body tissues. This disrupts the natural hormonal balance of the body. And it produces excess oil on the scalp.
Overwashing Your Hair
Assuming that washing oily hair frequently will make it less oily is a common misconception. Actually, it will only aggravate the problem. If you shampoo your hair too often you remove the scalp’s natural oil. Then the sebaceous glands react by secreting more oil. The more frequently you wash your hair, the more your scalp may try to defend itself. This results in an increased amount of sebum production.
Poor Hair Care Habits
The frequent use of combs can cause greasy hair. Some heavy or oily hair products, such as creamy conditioners, or certain styling products also cause greasy oily hair. Furthermore, hair should not be touched or brushed too often. If you touch your hair frequently, it can get oily faster.
Other Causes That Lead to Greasy Hair
Despite sebum glands and hormones as the key causes of oily hair, several other factors might worsen the condition. Here are some other factors that cause greasy hair and oily hair:
Stress and Anxiety
High stress can affect the levels of stress hormones. Such an imbalance may cause the overproduction of the skin’s natural oils, sebum, which causes oily hair. Also, stress can result in the formation of dandruff, itching, and irritation. All these are most likely to cause oily hair.
Climate/Dampness
The outside conditions such as humidity also contribute to greasy oily hair. Mostly, during hot seasons, your scalp produces sweat which leads to oily hair. Heat and moisture in the air cause sebaceous glands to produce excess oil. It can help you protect your scalp from drying. But it can also lead to greasy oily hair.
Certain Medications
Certain treatments like ones for acne can change the hormone level in your body. As a result, it will cause the scalp to produce more oil. If you are under medication and have greasy hair, it would be wise to discuss it with your doctor.
How to Care for and Treat Greasy Hair?
While greasy hair can be such a problem, the good news is that there are many different ways you can prevent or at least treat it. Here are the ultimate tips to get rid of greasy hair.
Use the Right Shampoo
The first thing to do to control greasy hair is to select the correct shampoo. Hence, try to look at those shampoos that are made for use on your oily hair.
Such formulations may include:
-
Salicylic acid
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Charcoal
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Clay
These chemicals can remove the excess oil and deeply purify the scalp. Heavy moisturization shampoos or those recommended for dry hair should be avoided.
Don’t Overwash Your Hair
Many people might think it is right to wash their hair daily. But this only worsens the situation. Washing your hair too frequently dries the scalp. Wash your hair after every two to three days. This can help you get rid of oily hair.
Use Dry Shampoo
Dry shampoo is your go-to when it comes to dealing with greasy hair. It captures extra oils on the hair and it makes the hair appear neat. Just spray, or pour dry shampoo onto your roots. Let it sit then brush it off and it will absorb the oils.
Dry shampoo is perfect for one scenario: If you want to wash your hair less frequently, or simply do not have time for it.
Maintain a Healthy Diet
The food you eat has some effect on the health of your hair. Avoid eating food that increases oil production. Instead, consume fruits, vegetables, whole-grain food, and proteins. Reduce the intake of processed foods and high levels of dairy. They can also increase sebum production.
There are natural foods that have omega-3 fatty acids such as fish, walnuts, and flaxseed. These can help reduce the production of sebum and keep the hair growing.
Avoid Heavy Hair Products
Choose carefully what you put on your hair. Such products as conditioners or gel will make the hair look greasy. Moreover, choose thin lotions for the oily hair type. Buy products that are described as ‘non-comedogenic’, they don’t block your pores or make the scalp oily.
Normalize Washing Your Pillowcases
It may come as a surprise but your pillowcase can build up the oils from your hair and skin while you’re asleep. This can result in grease on the hair. Therefore, your hair looks and feels oily much earlier than desired.
The covers of the pillowcases should be changed to silk or satin. This would minimize friction and lead to minimized oil accumulation. Do not use your pillowcases for too long without washing. They accumulate oils and bacteria. Wash your pillowcases after some days and then use them.
Consider Scalp Treatments
There is evidence that a scalp treatment can effectively lower the level of sebum. Products that contain components such as tea tree oil, peppermint, or witch hazel may be used to address the problem of oily scalp. Moreover, many scalp scrubs can be used to work off residue from dead skin.
Natural Home Remedies for Greasy Hair
Several remedies can be used at home. These remedies control oil secretion and clean hair without the use of chemicals. Here are a few simple and effective solutions:
Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse
A perfect natural treatment for oily hair is the apple cider vinegar. It assists in bringing back the pH of the scalp. Also, it has the ability to minimize the secretion of oil.
For example, mix one part apple cider vinegar with three parts water. After that, wash your hair then apply this solution to the scalp. Then, leave it for several minutes and wash it off. This will help to take away more dirt that is in your hair leaving it feeling clean as new.
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is yet another natural remedy that works for dealing with greasy hair. It has an acidic nature that aids in dissolving oil in the scalp.
First, blend lemon juice with warm water. Then have it massaged on the scalp before washing. It will reduce the formation of oils and give your hair a neat look.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is antifungal and antibacterial. Therefore, it is perfect for people with oily hair and greasy hair. You can use tea tree oil directly on your hair. Also, you can mix a couple of drops of oil into your shampoo. If you have coconut or jojoba oil, you can mix them too. Then, apply it to the scalp. Its antimicrobial properties will regulate sebum production.
Aloe Vera
Using aloe Vera will help maintain the oil on the scalp without causing any harm to the hair. Apply a mixture of an aloe vera gel and a little amount of water to your head. Let it rest on your hair for roughly 10 minutes then wash it off.
Products to Avoid that Make Your Hair Greasier
Here are some products you should avoid to prevent your hair from becoming greasier:
Heavy Cream-Based Shampoos
Shampoos and conditioners for dry hair have thick creamy textures for purposes of moistening. Although these are ideal for dry hair they make oily hair look even oilier.
Avoid shampoos that are labeled as moisturizing, nourishing, hydrating, or medicated. They are likely to add to the problem by increasing the oil production of the scalp.
Styling Gels and Creams
Hair products like gels and creams add mass to your hair. Hence, it becomes oily much sooner. Many of these products include oils or silicones that lay on the hair’s surface. Instead of these, use lighter products like a hairspray that gently gives volume to the hair.
Hair Oils and Serums
A hair oil is suitable for dry hair but can make oily hair look even oilier. If you have oily hair, do not use argan oil, coconut oil, or any oil product that is meant for dry hair. And if you ever have to use oil, it is recommended that you use a drop or two to the end of your hair strand.
Shampoos with Sulfates
Sulfates remove the natural oils from your scalp. This makes it produce more sebum. It’s better to use sulfate-free products. Especially, if you wash your hair often, do not use shampoos with sulfates.
If you can be careful choosing your hair care products and ensure that those products you use do not weigh your hair or block the pores of your skin, you can be able to manage greasy hair and make your hair look cleaner.
The Role of Scalp Health in Managing Greasy Hair
Scalp management is important to control oily hair. A healthy scalp will produce reasonable amounts of oil. Here are some essential tips for keeping your scalp in optimal condition to prevent excessive oiliness:
Regular Scalp Exfoliation
Scrubbing loosens product residue, dead skin cells, and oils or sebum from the surface of the skin. Use a sugar and olive oil scalp scrub. Rub the scrub around your scalp in circular motions. This way you stimulate the blood flow.
Apply a Scalp Treatment
If you are having a problem with oily skin, try to use a scalp treatment. You can find products with celecoxib, aloe vera, peppermint oil, or witch hazel. They will help reduce inflammation and regulate sebum secretion.
Avoid Overly Tight Hairstyles
Do not tighten your hair in ponytails, braids, or buns. They reduce the supply of blood to your scalp thus producing more oil. Free-flowing hairstyles allow your scalps to be free and not congested with excessive oils.
Keep Your Hairbrush Clean
Dirty brushes or combs can deposit the oils in the hair back to the scalp. Ensure you wash off the hair strands of the brush. Also, wash the brush in warm water. One of the advantages of having a clean brush is that the oil will spread evenly. Therefore, you won’t get in a situation where one area gets more oil than the other.
It would be best to keep your hair clean. This can help you change the look of your greasy hair. The right methods can help you reduce sebum production on the scalp.
How to Maintain Greasy Hair Between Washes?
It becomes a challenge to keep your hair free from oil and greasy in between washes. But here are various practical ways of helping you manage your hair and go for long hours without washing.
Use Dry Shampoo Effectively
Dry shampoos are the simplest and fastest method for eliminating the problem of greasy hair. Use it in the roots of your oily hair. Let it sit for about five minutes to allow it to ’sweep’ the hair shafts from excess oil.
After that, use your comb to make sure that the product is spread evenly. The dry shampoo will make your hair fresh and you don’t have to wash your hair.
Scalp Refreshing Spray
If you want to spend a little time washing your hair you should choose a Scalp Refreshing Spray. Scalp refreshing sprays are light products. They work by absorbing oil within the scalp area. Some of these sprays consist of witch hazel charcoal, or tea tree oil.
Therefore, they help wash and rejuvenate the scalp. They are even ideal during times when you do not have time to wash your hair.
Change Your Hairstyle
Choose a hairstyle such as a messy bun or braid that will cover the greasy hair roots. Also, you can use headbands or scarves to cover the oily zones at your roots.
Wrapping it Up!
Greasy hair doesn’t have to be a daily struggle. By understanding what causes oily hair and how to address it, you can prevent and control excess sebum production.
With the right hair care routine, you can avoid having greasy hair. Moreover, small adjustments to your hair care can make a big difference. The right hair care routine can bring the fresh, clean feel many people want when dealing with greasy hair.
FAQs About Greasy & Oily Hair
Why does my hair get oily so fast?
Hair becomes oily quickly because sebaceous glands work on the skin’s surface too actively to produce sebum. Fluctuations in hormonal levels, diet, stress, or the environment may cause an increase in oil production.
How can I stop my hair from getting greasy?
To stop your hair from getting greasy, use dry shampoo and select oil-free hair products. Have a balanced diet to minimize oiliness. Proper scalp care also assists in decreasing oiliness.
Does oily hair mean my scalp is unhealthy?
Not necessarily. Most of the time, oily hair is just an overflow of sebaceous glands in your body.
How often should I wash greasy hair?
If you have oily hair you should wash the hair 2-3 times a week. Overwashing your hair can deprive your scalp of natural moisturizer. This can make it overactive resulting in excessive production of sebum.
Can stress cause oily hair?
Of course, stress does translate into hormonal imbalances. These in turn cause additional sebum production.
Are there any foods that make my hair less oily?
Yes, fruits, vegetables, healthy fats such as omega-3s can make hair less oily. Another way is to eliminate the consumption of a large number of dairy products and processed foods.
