The bane of greasy hair and what to do about it

If you are one of those who reaches for the shampoo bottle almost every day to get rid of excess oil, then this is for you. With naturally oily hair and scalp, there are high chances of limp, lanky, greasy locks being the bane of your life.

Fret not, as hair experts share some tips and tricks to make greasy hair oil more manageable.

What you need to know:

Greasy hair is caused by an imbalance of sebaceous glands that secrete sebum in excess. Sebum, when secreted in the right amount, protects hair and skin against damage. But like always, too much of anything is a problem. The greasiness caused thus leaves hair flat, limp and lifeless and has an impact on the texture of the hair.

Ways to tackle greasy hair:

Here are some simple tips that will ensure your hair loses the grease without the shine:

Look at the products you are using

If you are using products that do not suit your hair type, then there is a strong chance that the glands on the scalp will overactive and cause a build-up of grease and oil.

Some hair care and hair styling products have a high concentration of oils and can even make normal hair look greasy. Keep an eye on what you are using. You can opt for products with citrus extracts and astringent herbs that are known to break down excessive oils. Even minerals such as calcium, zinc and vitamin A that nourish your skin and clean the scalp thoroughly work well for oily hair. Buy a small bottle and test it on your hair before you go all out on it.

Use a combination shampoo

With an extremely oily scalp, you might have to wash your hair more frequently. Hence it is vital that you go for a shampoo that is mild in nature and suitable for regular use. Remember, a harsh shampoo will only make your scalp secrete more oil to compensate for the dryness. Use a shampoo specifically designed for oily hair as it is milder and suitable for everyday use.

Combination shampoos might work too. They have conditioning properties that soften the hair and are known to lessen the damage of daily washes.

Keep your hands off

Scalp produces oil right after you wash it. If you run your fingers through your hair across the scalp, you will land up spreading grease as well as the dirt from your hands all over quickly. So as tempting as it might be to touch your hair, it is best that you keep your hands off.

Avoid head massages and conditioners

As enticing as those nourishing hair massage treatments sound, they might not work for oily hair. Massaging can stimulate oil glands in the scalp and produce more oils, only worsening your situation.

Same is the case with hair conditioners. Conditioners are basically used to moisturise the scalp and hair. Since there is already excess oil and grease, there is no need of conditioning after shampooing.

Wash your hair with water close to body temperature

Washing hair with hot water also stimulates oil glands causing secretion of excess oil. So, always use water that is as same as your body temperature, or even better, go for a water temperature that is cooler.

Use serums or hair oils through the hair length only

Using serums and hair oils near the roots causes greasy hair. But if you feel that the rest of your hair could do with some extra conditioning, you can use serums or oils carefully only along the length of the hair or in the middle.

Dry Shampoo to style oily hair

Dry shampoo is your best friend when it comes to styling oily hair. Their spray powders absorb the greasy layer on the hair, allowing you to go an extra day without washing hair. But remember, though dry shampoos give extra volume and body to the hair, it is not recommended for regular use.

The best way to apply dry shampoo is to dust it on the hair from a little distance away and brush thoroughly. Avoid direct contact with the roots as it can block the follicles.

Follow these smart tricks and tips and you can easily make your slick oily hair look sleek and voluminous!