Even for the most lethargic among us, greasy hair is a nuisance that is simply unbearable. It not only appears unsightly but also causes discomfort and itching. However, taking the extra five minutes to shampoo and condition, and spending five hours with damp hair, can sometimes seem like a chore that we just can’t be bothered with.
If you experience persistent oiliness in your hair, even after daily shampooing and avoiding oil-based products, it could be a result of excessive oil production by your scalp. This leads to greasy hair and can be a nuisance.
Fortunately, in this article, we have compiled some straightforward solutions to help you tackle this issue. Keep reading to find out more.
Natural Ways to Get Rid of Greasy Hair (Oily Hair)
Daily Shampooing
Your personal hygiene practices may be the root of the problem. Inconsistent shampooing or over-shampooing can lead to greasy hair. If you have greasy hair, it is recommended to shampoo your hair daily. Excessive washing can stimulate the glands to produce more oil to compensate for frequent shampooing.
When selecting a shampoo, opt for one specifically designed for oily hair. These shampoos clean the scalp and hair without adding excess moisture. If dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis is also a concern, consider using a shampoo containing zinc pyrithione (such as Head and Shoulders) to eliminate bacteria and fungus, or one with salicylic acid to remove excess oil and flakes.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has an acidic composition and rinsing your hair with it may regulate the overproduction of sebum. Although, the available research on this topic is limited.
To use ACV, mix 2 to 3 tablespoons with 1 cup of water. After shampooing your hair with a gentle shampoo, rinse your hair with the diluted ACV solution. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing with cold water. Repeat this process 2 to 3 times a week.
Baby Powder
Baby powder can be used as a dry shampoo to help absorb excess oil from the hair and scalp. Here’s how to use it:
- Sprinkle a small amount of baby powder onto your scalp and hair, focusing on the roots and oily areas.
- Use a brush or your fingertips to distribute the powder evenly throughout your hair, making sure it reaches the roots.
- Wait for a few minutes to allow the powder to absorb the oil, then shake or brush out any excess powder.
- Style your hair as desired.
Note: Avoid using too much baby powder, as it can make your hair look and feel dry and powdery.
Baking Soda
Baking soda can be an effective solution for both dry shampoo and removing excess oil from the hair. Its alkaline properties may help regulate the pH of the scalp and absorb oil.
To use, mix 2 to 3 tablespoons of baking soda with water to form a thick paste. Apply the mixture to your scalp and hair, leaving it on for about 5 minutes before rinsing with cold water. However, it is important to note that this mixture can be drying and should not be used too frequently.
Tea Tree Oil
Dandruff can often contribute to greasy hair. Fortunately, tea tree oil, with its antifungal properties, can help combat dandruff and regulate greasiness.
To use, mix 15 drops of tea tree oil with 30 ml of carrier oil like coconut or jojoba. Apply the mixture to your scalp and evenly distribute it through your hair. Leave it on for a minimum of one hour before washing it off.
If your skin is not sensitive to tea tree oil, you can also apply it directly to your scalp. Repeat this process 2 to 3 times a week.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has long been used as a natural remedy for a variety of hair and skin issues, including greasy hair. Its moisturizing properties can help regulate the production of oil on the scalp.
To use, warm up a small amount of coconut oil and gently massage it into your scalp. Leave it on for at least an hour before washing it off with a gentle shampoo. You can also leave it on overnight for added benefits. Try using this method once or twice a week as needed.
It is important to note that while coconut oil can help regulate oil production, using too much of it can actually make your hair greasier, so be sure to use it in moderation.
Epsom Salt
Epsom salt can help exfoliate the scalp and remove any buildup, making it an effective remedy for greasy hair. By balancing the scalp’s pH and removing excess oil, Epsom salt can help regulate sebum production, reducing the overall greasiness of the hair.
To use, try mixing 2-3 tablespoons of Epsom salt with a cup of warm water to create a solution. After shampooing, massage this mixture into your scalp for 2-3 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cold water. Repeat this process once a week for the best results.
Remember, Epsom salt can be drying, so it’s important to follow up with a deep conditioning treatment to keep your hair hydrated.
Condition Carefully
When it comes to managing greasy hair, it’s important to use conditioner wisely. While a conditioner can help keep your hair soft and smooth, applying it to your scalp can leave it feeling weighed down and greasier. To avoid this, focus on applying conditioner only to the ends of your hair, where it’s most needed.
By avoiding your scalp, you’ll help keep your hair looking and feeling clean and healthy, without adding to the greasiness. When conditioning your hair, be gentle and avoid over-massaging the scalp, as this can also contribute to an increase in oil production.
Green Tea
Green tea is abundant in polyphenols that help maintain the health of the scalp. One of its key benefits is its ability to regulate oil production.
Brew some green tea, let it cool, and then use the tea to rinse your scalp and hair. Leave the tea on for 30 to 40 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Repeat this process once a week for the best results.
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is rich in citric acid and it has astringent properties. It may help reduce excess oil production on your scalp.
Mix 4 to 5 tablespoons of lemon juice with 2 cups of distilled water and store the mixture in the refrigerator. After washing your hair, gently pat it dry and apply the lemon juice mixture. Let it sit on your hair for approximately 10 minutes before rinsing it off with cold water. This remedy can be used as needed when your hair feels excessively oily.
Avoid Over Brushing and Keep Your Brush Clean
It is best to limit the frequency of brushing your hair when you experience excessive oiliness. Brushing too much can lead to the spread of scalp oils and increase oil production. Keeping your brush clean is also crucial in avoiding an oily scalp.
Dust, residual product, and bacteria can accumulate on your brush and transfer to your hair, causing it to appear greasy. Make sure to clean your brush on a regular basis to maintain a healthy, non-greasy scalp.
Egg Yolk
Egg yolks contain proteins that have been known to help tighten hair follicles and reduce the amount of sebum (oil) produced by the scalp. To try this natural remedy, mix one or two egg yolks with one tablespoon of lemon juice and apply the mixture to freshly washed hair.
Allow it to sit for 30 to 40 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cold water to eliminate any egg odor.
Aloe Vera and Lemon Juice
You can try mixing aloe vera and lemon juice to create a hair rinse. Aloe vera has moisturizing properties, while lemon juice is known to act as an astringent to control sebum production.
To make the mixture, combine one to two teaspoons of aloe vera gel with a tablespoon of lemon juice and a cup of water.
Mix everything together, then use it to rinse your hair after shampooing. This remedy can be repeated once a week for the best results.
Final Thoughts
A greasy scalp and hair can be a nuisance for many people, but with a few changes in lifestyle and some natural remedies, it is possible to control the excess oil. It is important to remember that everyone’s hair and scalp are different, so finding the best remedy may take some trial and error. By making a few small changes and incorporating these natural remedies into your hair care routine, you can say goodbye to greasy hair and hello to healthy, beautiful locks.
