We all want healthy, shiny, fabulous hair, but despite our best efforts, our locks can look like they’ve been through a grease pit. If your routine is failing and your hair looks greasy and limp despite all that hard work, it’s time to investigate the culprits.
1. Don’t Use Too Many Products
If you’re slathering on styling products like they’re going out of style, your hair will quickly turn from fresh to greasy. Too much mousse, gel, or hairspray can weigh down your strands and make them look like they’ve been coated in oil. Less is more—start with a small amount and build up as needed. If product buildup is an issue, do a hair and scalp cleanse.
2. You’re Using the Wrong Products
Be mindful of your hair type when choosing styling products. Products designed for thick, coarse hair might not work for fine or oily hair types. Heavy creams and pomades can make your hair look greasy almost immediately. Opt for lightweight, oil-free products that won’t suffocate your strands.
3. Stop Skipping Shampoo
If you skip shampoo in favor of conditioner or don’t wash your hair enough, you’re not cleansing enough. Your hair must be washed every 2-3 days to remove excess oils and product buildup. Use a clarifying shampoo once a week to keep your strands fresh and oil-free for an extra cleanse.
4. You’re Not Rinsing Right
Have you ever felt like your hair is still greasy after a shower? You might not be rinsing out your shampoo or conditioner thoroughly. The residue left behind from your hair care products can make your hair look limp and oily. Rinse until you’re sure all products are out; ideally, finish with a cold rinse to seal the hair’s cuticles.
5. Stop Using the Wrong Shampoo
Shampoos are not a one-size-fits-all approach. If you’re using a shampoo designed for dry hair, it might be too moisturizing for your oily scalp. Switch to a volumizing or clarifying shampoo that helps control excess oil. It’s essential always to use products designed for your hair type.
6. You’re Brushing Too Much
Brushing your hair is great, but overdoing it can distribute the natural oils from your scalp throughout your hair, making it look greasy. Brush only when necessary, and use a brush with natural boar bristles to avoid overproduction of oils.
7. You’re Applying Conditioner All Wrong
As a general rule, but especially if your hair is oily, conditioner should only be applied to the ends of your hair, not the roots. Applying it to your scalp can lead to a greasy appearance. If you need extra moisture, use a leave-in conditioner instead.
8. Stop Ignoring Scalp Care
A healthy scalp is essential for healthy hair. If you’re not cleansing your scalp properly, dead skin cells and excess oils can accumulate, making your hair look greasy. Add a scalp scrub to your haircare routine and use it once a week to exfoliate your scalp.
9. You’re Damaging Your Hair
Using styling tools like flat irons and curling wands can lead to heat damage, which can dry out and damage your and make it look limp. Always use a heat protectant product when styling and give your hair some downtime from heat styling.
10. You’re Not Using Dry Shampoo Right
Dry shampoo is a lifesaver between washes and to refresh a blowout, but if you apply too much or don’t distribute it evenly, you might end up with a powdery residue that looks worse than the oil. Hold the canister at least 8-10 inches away from your roots and brush through thoroughly.
11. Stop Sleeping with Wet Hair
Going to bed with wet hair can lead to flattened, greasy-looking locks. The moisture can also mix with your natural oils, making things worse. Allow your hair to dry thoroughly before hitting the pillow, and ideally, use a silk pillowcase to reduce friction, which can damage hair and cause loss.
12. You’re Using Too Much Gel
Hair gel can be a miracle tool for setting strands in place, but overusing it will make your hair look stiff and greasy. Apply a small amount, and if you need more hold, use a lightweight styling cream instead.
13. Take a Break from Hats and Headbands
Hats and headbands can trap heat and sweat, creating greasy hair strands. Give your hair a break by letting it roam free, and if you need to wear a hat or headband, ensure they are clean and switch it up to avoid constant oil buildup.
14. Stop Using Old Styling Tools
Dirty styling tools can transfer grime to your hair. Using brushes or combs that haven’t been cleaned in ages might spread old oils and product buildup throughout your hair. Regularly clean your tools to keep your hair fresh and clean, too.
15. You Need to Adjust Your Routine
Finally, it might be time for a change if you’ve used the same hair products and routine for ages. Your hair’s needs and texture can evolve, so be flexible and adjust your products and techniques as needed.