18 Best Shampoos For Oily Hair: Hair Stylist Approved & Reviewed
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I'll receive a commission if you purchase through the link at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure here.
Dealing with oily hair can be quite a challenge. If you've been down this road, you know the struggle all too well. I certainly do. As a professional hairstylist, I've seen it all, and I've felt the frustration of constantly battling oily hair. It often feels like a never-ending cycle of washing your hair, only to have it become greasy again in no time.
But here's the catch – washing your hair daily may be causing more harm than good. It is one of the common hair washing mistakes people make, and it can lead your scalp to overproduce oils to compensate for the constant removal. The result? Hair that gets oily faster than you'd like.
So finding that delicate balance between keeping your hair fresh for days and not overwashing it can be a game-changer. And that's where choosing the right shampoo for oily hair comes into play.
In this blog post, I'll share my firsthand insights into what causes oily hair, tips to maintain oily scalp and greasy hair and explore the importance of choosing the right shampoo for your specific hair needs.
I'll also provide you with a comprehensive list of the best shampoos for oily hair to help you on your journey to less oiliness. I've tested these products myself because, like you, I have oily hair, and I know the struggle.
Are you ready for the freedom to go longer between washes? Then keep reading!
What Causes Oily Hair
An oily scalp is primarily a result of the sebaceous glands in your scalp producing an excess of sebum and natural oil. This overproduction of sebum can give your scalp a shiny, greasy, and less-than-fresh appearance. It's not uncommon to feel the need to wash your hair frequently when dealing with this condition.
Some external factors play a significant role in the oiliness of your hair as well. These include:
Humidity: High humidity levels can exacerbate the problem, making your hair appear even oilier.
Pollution: Exposure to pollutants in the air can lead to the buildup of particles on your scalp, contributing to oiliness.
Hair Products: Using heavy, oil-based & silicone hair products like serums and pomades can leave residue on your scalp, making your hair appear greasier.
Overwashing: Ironically, excessive washing of your hair can stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more oil to compensate for the loss, leading to increased oiliness.
Seasonal Changes: Your hair's behavior can change with the seasons. For example, it might get oilier in the summer and drier in the winter. That's pretty normal. Just adjust your hair care routine based on the season to keep your hair and scalp healthier. To learn more about how to maintain a healthy scalp, especially during seasonal changes, read my blog post on how to keep your scalp healthy.
How To Choose The Best Shampoo For Oily Hair
Selecting the right shampoo for your oily hair is like finding the perfect puzzle piece. Each hair is unique, and yours deserves a tailored solution. So here's a simple process you can follow to find the best shampoo for your oily hair concerns.
1. Identify Your Hair Type & Scalp Condition:
Before you dive into the world of shampoos, it's essential to decode your hair type and the current state of your scalp. This isn't rocket science, but it's your ticket to success.
Understanding your unique hair needs, whether it's fine, curly, or somewhere in between, is the first crucial step. Beyond that, take a closer look at your scalp condition. Is it overly oily? Prone to dandruff? Knowing these specifics will guide you to the perfect shampoo match.
Check out my blog post for a deeper dive into the differences between curly and wavy hair.
2. Decode Shampoo Labels: The Keywords To Look For And Avoid
Look out for specific keywords that indicate the suitability for oily hair. These include terms like volumizing, texturizing, fullness, cleansing, tea tree, and balancing. They're your green lights to fresh, oil-free hair.
On the flip side, be wary of keywords like moisturizing, nourishing, and rich oils. While these are wonderful for dry hair, they might not be your best allies in the fight against oiliness. Avoid products boasting these terms, and you'll be on the right track.
3. Product Consistency:
In your quest for oil-free hair, opt for shampoos with lightweight formulas. These shampoos offer a thinner consistency, making them a perfect match for your oily scalp as they won't weigh down your hair. Their primary purpose is to provide a deep cleanse that rids your hair of excess oils and dirt.
4. Understand pH Levels:
It's important to maintain the pH balance of your scalp. Clarifying shampoos with high pH levels (9-10) should be used sparingly, such as once a month or every other month. Overusing it can disrupt the balance and lead to increased oil production. So stick to your regular daily shampoo for everyday use.
These steps will be your guiding light, and you're well on your way to making an informed choice!
Best Shampoos For Oily Hair
How I've Picked
As a professional hairstylist, I've encountered every type of oily hair dilemma imaginable. My clients' struggles have ranged from fighting the daily slick of greasiness to soothing the itch of an oily scalp. Drawing from both my professional experiences and personal battles with oiliness, I've meticulously selected these shampoos that stand out in their effectiveness.
Targeted Solutions: My picks aren't just random; they're purposefully chosen to tackle the varied issues oily-haired individuals face, from excess grease to dehydrated ends.
Formulation Focus: I've selected shampoos that have lightweight textures and are infused with active ingredients ensuring they cleanse thoroughly yet gently to maintain the natural balance of the scalp.
All Hair Types: Whether your hair is straight or curly, fine or thick, my recommendations are inclusive. They're formulated to enhance shine, provide hydration, and control oil without leading to frizz or dryness.
Let's explore my top picks, and together, we'll find what's perfect for you.
My Top Picks
1 — Best Overall Shampoo For Oily Hair
Sebastian Dark Oil Shampoo
Score: 5 / 5
Hair type: All hair types
Hair texture: Fine, Medium, and Coarse
Key ingredients: Argan Oil and Jojoba Oil
Product overview:
Sebastian Dark Oil Shampoo is a lightweight, potent solution designed for clean and shiny hair. Formulated with nourishing ingredients like Argan Oil and Jojoba Oil, it effectively combats excessive oiliness without weighing hair down.
One of the most notable features of this shampoo is its exceptional control over oil production. It helps keep your hair clean and fresh for an extended period, reducing the need for frequent washes.
My experience:
My experience with Sebastian Dark Oil Shampoo has been impressive. It does an excellent job of cleansing the scalp, leaving it super clean without making it feel overly dry. The balance it strikes between cleansing and nourishing is where this product truly shines.
What I like:
Lightweight formula perfect for oily hair.
Leaves the scalp super clean without over-drying.
Contains nourishing ingredients like Argan Oil and Jojoba Oil.
Adds remarkable shine to the hair.
Suitable for all hair types and textures.
What I dislike:
Price may be on the higher side for some.
Best suited for:
Sebastian Dark Oil Shampoo is a must-try for those with oily hair. As a hairstylist, I wholeheartedly recommend it as the best overall choice for clean, nourished, and shiny hair.
2 — Best Budget Shampoo For Oily Hair
OGX Extra Strength Refreshing Scalp + Teatree Mint Shampoo
Score: 4 / 5
Hair type: All hair types
Hair texture: Fine, Medium, and Coarse
Key ingredients: Tea Tree Oil, Peppermint, Witch Hazel
Product overview:
OGX Extra Strength Refreshing Scalp + Teatree Mint Shampoo is your ultimate solution for a refreshed and deeply cleansed scalp. With the invigorating sensation of tea tree oil, this lightweight formula provides long-lasting cleanliness without stripping your hair.
What I like:
Lightweight yet powerful extra strength formula for deep cleansing.
Tea tree oil refreshes and soothes the scalp.
Has a refreshing minty scent.
It is paraben-free and sulfate-free.
Suitable for all hair types and textures.
Best suited for:
The OGX Extra Strength Refreshing Scalp + Teatree Mint Shampoo is a budget-friendly gem for those with oily hair. It offers deep cleansing, softening, and hydrating properties to keep your hair fresh.
3 — Best Clarifying Shampoo For Oily Hair
Matrix Biolage Normalizing Clean Reset Shampoo
Score: 4 / 5
Hair type: Straight, Wavy, and Curly
Hair texture: Fine, Medium, and Thick
Key ingredients: Lemongrass
Product overview:
Matrix Biolage Normalizing Clean Reset Shampoo deeply cleanses the hair and scalp, removing buildup and impurities without stripping it of its natural oils. It is inspired by the refreshing and purifying properties of lemongrass. The shampoo's gentle formula leaves hair feeling soft, smooth, and shiny, without weighing it down.
My experience:
Matrix Biolage Normalizing Clean Reset Shampoo has earned its place among my top choices for combating oily hair. While it may not be labeled as a volumizing or texturizing shampoo, it certainly does the job well in deeply cleansing your hair without stripping away essential moisture.
What I like:
Effective cleansing without excessive dryness.
Removes product buildup and refreshes the scalp.
Maintains a balanced pH level of your hair and scalp.
Suitable for both color-treated and natural hair.
What I dislike:
Some may find the shampoo's lemongrass scent to be too strong or overpowering.
Best suited for:
The Matrix Biolage Normalizing Clean Reset Shampoo is a great choice, especially if you live in areas with hard water or tend to use a lot of styling products. This shampoo will leave your oily hair feeling clean, refreshed, and healthy.
For a detailed look at how to use a clarifying shampoo and whether they're suitable for your hair type, check out my blog post on what does clarifying shampoo do.
4 — Best Shampoo For Greasy Hair
Verb Sea Texture Shampoo
Score: 4 / 5
Hair type: Straight and Wavy
Hair texture: Fine, Medium, and Thick
Key ingredients: Green tea extract, Glycerin, Natural sea salt, Pro-vitamin B5, Kelp, and Seaweed extract
Product overview:
The Verb Sea Texture Shampoo is a lightweight shampoo specially designed to cleanse your hair gently while adding natural texture and body. This unique shampoo boasts a formula infused with natural sea salt, renowned for its ability to create natural waves and curls, alongside the added benefits of hydrating and nourishing your hair through algae extract.
My experience:
My experience with the Verb Sea Texture Shampoo has been exceptional. It offers that much-needed grit texture to your hair, which not only enhances your natural waves but also helps remove excess oils.
What I like:
Enhances natural hair texture.
Ideal for pre-styling to extend the life of curls or waves.
Safe for color-treated hair.
Vegan and cruelty-free.
What I dislike:
Not safe for use on keratin-treated hair due to its natural sea salt content.
Best suited for:
The Verb Sea Texture Shampoo stands as the ultimate solution for individuals with straight or wavy hair types who aim to enrich their natural waves while gently eliminating excess oils.
If you've ever battled with flat, lifeless hair that refuses to hold a curl or wave, the grit texture this shampoo provides is your secret to achieving longer-lasting, beachy, tousled waves, especially when using hair styling tools.
5 — Best Drugstore Shampoo For Oily Hair
L'Oreal Paris EverPure Volume Shampoo
Score: 3 / 5
Hair type: All hair types
Hair texture: Fine & Flat Hair
Key ingredients: Lotus flower extract
Product overview:
L'Oreal Paris EverPure Volume Shampoo is a lightweight gel shampoo that is designed to add volume and body to fine, flat hair. It is formulated with lotus flower extract, which helps to hydrate and nourish the hair without weighing it down.
The shampoo also contains gentle cleansing agents that remove dirt and buildup without stripping the hair of its natural oils. This helps to keep the hair looking and feeling healthy.
What I like:
Effective at removing excess oils.
Adds volume and bounce to fine, flat hair.
Pleasant fragrance and forms a rich lather.
Safe and gentle on color-treated hair.
Best suited for:
L'Oreal Paris EverPure Volume Shampoo is an excellent drugstore option for those with fine, flat hair looking to boost volume and body. You can easily find it at popular retailers like Target, Walmart, Ulta, and more in the United States, Canada, and beyond!
6 — Best Shampoo For Oily Color-Treated Hair
Verb Volume Shampoo
Score: 4 / 5
Hair type: All hair types
Hair texture: Fine and Medium
Key ingredients: Pro-vitamin B5, Sunflower Seed Extract, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein
Product overview:
Verb Volume Shampoo is the perfect choice for those seeking to cleanse their oily hair while boosting volume and body. This sulfate-free shampoo contains green tea extract and pro-vitamin B5 to not only effectively cleanse but also protect your hair from damage and frizz.
My experience:
I personally love the formulation of this volumizing shampoo, enriched with pro-vitamin B5, sunflower seed extract, and hydrolyzed soy protein. These powerhouse ingredients do wonders in boosting hair body, protecting your color's vibrancy, and keeping frizz at bay.
After using this shampoo, your hair will feel voluminous, smooth, and tangle-free. And the subtle scent of grapefruit and oatmeal adds a refreshing touch to your hair care routine.
What I like:
Adds body to your hair.
Safe for color and keratin-treated hair.
Effectively fights frizz.
Free from parabens, SLS, and SLES.
Best suited for:
Verb Volume Shampoo is a great addition for anyone with an oily scalp that suffers from damaged or dry ends. And If your hair tends to be fine or limp and needs a little pick-me-up, then this shampoo is exactly what you need. It's like a superhero for lifeless hair!
7 — Best Shampoo For Fine Oily Hair
Bumble And Bumble Surf Foam Wash Shampoo
Score: 5 / 5
Hair type: Straight and Wavy
Hair texture: Fine and Medium
Key ingredients: Mineral Blend and Sea Botanical Blend
Product overview:
Bumble And Bumble is a great brand and their Surf Foam Wash Shampoo is an amazing addition to my list of the best shampoos for oily hair. It is a lightweight, foaming shampoo that cleanses and volumizes fine, oily hair. With a mineral blend for beachy texture and a sea botanical blend for softness and hydration, it's a game-changer.
What I like:
Adds volume and body
Softens and nourishes hair
Lightweight and does not weigh down hair
Best suited for:
Bumble And Bumble Surf Foam Wash Shampoo is best for fine oily hair to eliminate excess buildup and extend the time between hair washes.
If you have wavy hair, this product will enhance your waves beautifully. For those with straight hair, it adds texture that keeps your hairstyles looking fresh and lasting longer.
8 — Best Shampoo For Greasy Hair And Dry Ends
Matrix Total Results So Long Damage Shampoo
Score: 5 / 5
Hair type: Straight and Wavy
Hair texture: Fine, Medium, and Thick
Key ingredients: Ceramide and Amino Silicones
Product overview:
Matrix Total Results So Long Damage Shampoo is a versatile powerhouse that addresses both greasy scalps and damaged ends with finesse. Its gentle cleansing action provides a refreshing experience.
My experience:
At first glance, the Matrix Total Results So Long Damage Shampoo may not seem like the typical choice for those with oily hair, but it proved me wrong. While it isn't marketed for oily hair, it left my hair feeling exceptionally clean. What truly amazed me was its ability to simultaneously tackle my oily scalp and my damaged ends.
The result? Significantly less breakage, stronger hair, and noticeably reduced frizz. It's been a game-changer for my hair care routine.
What I like:
Cleanses and revitalizes.
Strengthens and repairs damaged hair.
Reduces splitting and breakages.
Safe for color-treated hair.
Best suited for:
Matrix Total Results So Long Damage Shampoo is a must-try if your hair feels oily, damaged, or frizzy. Whether your hair has suffered from heat styling, chemical treatments, or environmental factors, this shampoo can help strengthen and revitalize your hair, making it look and feel healthier.
9 — Best Shampoo For Oily Hair And Added Texture
Amika Sexture Texturizing Shampoo
Score: 3 / 5
Hair type: All hair types
Hair texture: Fine, Medium, and Thick
Key ingredients: Kaolin Clay
Product overview:
The Amika Sexture Texturizing Shampoo is one of the best shampoos for oily hair that craves a beachy texture and lasting volume. It's a unique blend of ingredients – kaolin clay dives deep to cleanse dirt and excess oils, while zeolite keeps frizz at bay and boosts your hair's volume. With this gel shampoo, you can enjoy the beachy look and long-lasting freshness right after your shower.
My experience:
I use Amika Sexture Texturizing Shampoo especially when I'm in a hurry and want my hair to air dry naturally. It leaves my hair feeling clean and light, and I love how it adds a beautiful beachy texture with a noticeable boost in volume.
What I like:
Detoxifies hair, leaving it feeling clean and fresh.
Provides long-lasting grit and beachy texture.
Boosts volume, making hair look fuller.
Safe for colored, Brazilian, and keratin-treated hair.
Paraben and sulfate-free.
Best suited for:
Amika Sexture Texturizing Shampoo is great if you are a busy-on-the-go person who loves to wash your hair and let it air dry effortlessly.
10 — Best Sulfate-Free Shampoo For Oily Hair
Ag Care Balanced Shampoo
Score: 5 / 5
Hair type: All hair types
Hair texture: Fine, Medium, and Coarse
Key ingredients: Apple Cider Vinegar and Argon Oil
Product overview:
Ag Care Balance Apple Cider Vinegar Sulfate-free Shampoo is a remarkable 98% plant-based and naturally derived gentle cleanser. It features a unique blend of natural ingredients, including apple cider vinegar, argan oil, and nourishing superfoods. This harmonious blend works wonders for enhancing shine with a special focus on those with extremely oily scalps.
My experience:
AG Care Balanced Shampoo is my go-to when I have oiled my scalp and hair. It does an excellent job of effectively getting out the oil. One feature I particularly appreciate is the option to purchase refill pouches, which is both eco-friendly and cost-effective.
For even better results, I highly recommend pairing it with their BOOST Apple Cider Vinegar Silicone-Free Conditioner, which not only conditions but also smooths cuticles while sealing in moisture.
Also, don't forget to use code "Jen20" for an exclusive 20% discount on AG Care Products.
What I like:
Perfect for tackling an oily scalp and hair.
Leaves hair feeling soft and smooth
Free from parabens, harsh sulfates, and silicones.
Safe for color-treated hair.
Offers eco-friendly refill pouches.
Best suited for:
Ag Care Balance Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo is perfect for everyday use, especially for those with oily hair. It gently cleanses, balances your hair and scalp's pH, removes build-up, and adds shine and softness to your hair.
11 — Best Shampoo For Oily Hair and Dandruff
Hairitage Wash It Away Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Score: 4 / 5
Hair type: All hair types
Hair texture: Fine, medium and thick
Key ingredients: 1% Selenium Sulfide
Product overview:
Hairitage Wash It Away Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is one of the best shampoos for oily scalp with dandruff concerns. With 1% Selenium Sulfide, it tackles scalp itching, irritation, redness, and flakes while gently cleansing to remove excess oil and impurities. It also offers targeted dandruff treatment and helps regulate oil production for a fresh, clean, and healthy scalp.
My experience:
Be mindful that this shampoo can be a little drying for your hair ends. To ensure your hair remains healthy and moisturized, it's recommended to follow up with a nourishing conditioner. For those with hair that needs extra care, you might also want to consider incorporating a leave-in conditioner into your routine.
What I like:
Feels light and doesn't strip hair.
Revives the scalp for healthier hair.
Soothes and comforts the scalp.
Tailored for oily, flaky scalps.
Made without harsh chemicals like SLS, SLES, phthalates, parabens, silicones, gluten, or mineral oil.
Safe for colored hair.
Best suited for:
If you're dealing with both an oily scalp and dandruff issues, Hairitage Wash It Away Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is a fantastic choice. It is an effective and affordable shampoo that can help you achieve a clean and healthy scalp.
12 — Best Shampoo For Extremely Oily Scalp
L'oreal Professionnel Scalp Advanced Anti-Oiliness Dermo-Purifier Shampoo
Score: 5 / 5
Hair type: All hair types
Hair texture: Fine, Medium, and Coarse
Key ingredients: 3% AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid)
Product overview:
L'Oreal Professionnel Scalp Advanced Anti-Oiliness Dermo-Purifier Shampoo is undeniably one of the best L'Oreal shampoos for oily hair. Enriched with a powerful key ingredient, 3% AHA (alpha hydroxy acid), this shampoo is your go-to solution for an extremely oily scalp.
It works diligently to purify the surface of your scalp, eliminating residue, sweat, and sebum, resulting in a fresher and cleaner feel. The lightweight gel effectively unclogs your scalp, allowing new cells to regenerate.
My experience:
As someone who's struggled with an overly oily scalp, I can confidently say this shampoo is a game-changer. After using it, my scalp feels remarkably clean, breaking free from the cycle of excess oil production.
What I like:
Concentrated with 3% AHA to help renew your scalp's surface.
Highly effective in managing extremely oily hair.
Lightweight and gentle on the scalp.
Remarkable reduction in sebum production.
Refreshing and long-lasting clean feeling.
Professional-grade results without harsh ingredients.
Great value for money.
Free from Colorant, Silicones, Sulfates and Alcohol
Best suited for:
Overall, L'Oréal Professionnel Scalp Advanced Anti-Oiliness Dermo-Purifier Shampoo is a great option for people with extremely oily hair who are looking for a shampoo that can cleanse their hair and scalp and help regulate sebum production.
13 — Best Deep Cleanse & Balancing Shampoo For Oily Hair
L'oreal Paris Elvive Extraordinary Clay Shampoo
Score: 3 / 5
Hair type: All hair types
Hair texture: Fine, Medium, and Coarse
Key ingredients: Three refined clays, Salicylic acid and Menthol
Product overview:
L'oreal Paris Elvive Extraordinary Clay Shampoo is one of the best shampoos for oily roots and dry lengths. With its ultra-purifying formula, it effectively removes excess scalp oil and banishes impurities and pollution particles. Utilizing three refined clays, it quickly revives oily hair and locks in twice the hydration.
My experience:
It doesn't just clean; it also rebalances and purifies my oily scalp while giving much-needed hydration to my dry ends. The outcome? Hair that feels nourished, lightweight, and incredibly shiny, with a natural, flowing texture.
What I like:
Deeply purifies and detangles hair.
Up-to 72-hour freshness.
The extraordinary power of pure clay.
Balances oily roots and hydrates dry lengths.
Silicone-free.
Best suited for:
Overall, L'oreal Paris Elvive Extraordinary Clay Shampoo is the ultimate solution for those with oily roots and dry ends. It's best suited for those seeking a balanced, refreshed feel, and who want to maintain a healthy scalp and hair.
14 — Best Shampoo For Oily, Flaky, and Itchy Scalp
Biolage Cooling Mint Scalpsync Shampoo
Score: 5 / 5
Hair type: All hair types
Hair texture: Fine, Medium, and Coarse
Key ingredients: Mint
Product overview:
Biolage Scalp Sync Cooling Mint Shampoo is your answer to an oily, flaky, and itchy scalp. It cleanses excess oil from the scalp and hair, purifying it for a healthy-looking, clean scalp. With the anti-bacterial and calming properties of the Mint Leaf, it awakens with a cool, refreshing sensation.
My experience:
If you have an oily scalp that gets irritated or itchy, this shampoo is for you. The mint helps to soothe your scalp.
What I like:
Refreshing and invigorating cooling sensation on the scalp.
Effectively removes excess oil and balances the scalp.
Safe for color-treated hair.
Silicone-free and paraben-free.
Best suited for:
Biolage Scalp Sync Cooling Mint Shampoo is a great choice for those looking to address excess oil, dandruff, and scalp debris while enjoying a soothing and cool sensation. You can use this shampoo to cleanse and follow up with Volume Bloom Conditioner to boost your hair's body and volume.
15 — Best Shampoo For Oily Frizzy Hair
GK Hair Balancing Shampoo
Score: 4 / 5
Hair type: All hair types
Hair texture: Fine, Medium, and Coarse
Key ingredients: Juvexin and Argan Oil
Product overview:
GK Hair Balancing Shampoo is a high-performance, sulfate, and paraben-free formula that effectively cleanses an oily to normal scalp while preserving its natural moisture balance. Enriched with Juvexin, an advanced form of keratin, as well as natural seed oils and plant extracts, it provides hydration to the hair and safeguards it against environmental damage, resulting in healthier, more vibrant hair.
What I like:
Deep moisturization for balanced scalp and nourished dry ends.
Effective color protection.
Enhanced strength, shine, and natural pH restoration.
Controls excessive hair oil production.
Adds a gentle volume to flat roots.
Sulfate and Paraben-Free.
Best suited for:
GK Hair Balancing shampoo’s formula is a little more creamy but works great for anyone with an oily scalp and frizzy hair. The creamy formula infused with keratin protein helps to control frizzy hair.
For those of you with curly hair that tends to frizz, mastering the balance between controlling oil and maintaining just the right amount of moisture is crucial. Explore my comprehensive guide on how to manage frizzy curly hair for expert tips on keeping your curls defined and smooth.
16 — Best Volumizing Shampoo For Oily Hair
John Frieda Volume Lift Lightweight Thickening Shampoo
Score: 3 / 5
Hair type: All hair types
Hair texture: Fine, Medium, and Coarse
Product overview:
John Frieda Volume Lift Lightweight Thickening Shampoo’s formula is enriched with Air-Silk Technology. It is a unique combination of volumizing and detangling agents, designed to gently cleanse your hair while adding natural-looking volume and bounce.
My experience:
Its lightweight formula effectively removes excess oils, preventing that weighed-down feeling and allowing me to go longer between washes. Plus, the delightful fragrance is a lovely bonus.
What I like:
Effortlessly detangles fine hair.
Leaves no heavy feeling, keeping hair light.
Generates healthy volume right from the roots.
Safe for color-treated hair.
Best suited for:
John Frieda Volume Lift Lightweight Thickening Shampoo is specifically designed to add volume to fine hair without weighing it down, making it an ideal choice for individuals seeking the best shampoo for oily fine hair.
17 — Best Daily Shampoo For Oily Hair
Biolage VolumeBloom Shampoo
Score: 4 / 5
Hair type: All hair types
Hair texture: Fine, Medium, and Coarse
Product overview:
Biolage Volume Bloom Shampoo is inspired by the expanding cotton flower, delivering long-lasting, bouncy volume to fine hair. This shampoo gently cleanses, adding lightweight shine and moisture, making it a great choice for fine, flat hair that needs a lift.
What I like:
Gentle cleansing that doesn't strip the natural oils.
Adds lightweight shine and volume, perfect for fine hair.
Provides a noticeable root lift.
Lightweight formula that doesn't weigh down the hair.
Safe for color-treated hair.
Best suited for:
Biolage VolumeBloom Shampoo is perfect for fine oily hair, delivering lightweight, bouncy volume. It's also great for curly hair, providing moisture for lively curls, leaving your hair looking fuller, smoother, and healthier, with a soft, shiny finish.
18 — Best Dry Shampoo For Oily Hair
Amika Perk Up Dry Shampoo
Score: 5 / 5
Hair type: All hair types
Hair texture: Fine, Medium, and Coarse
Key ingredients: Rice starch and Sea buckthorn
Product overview:
Amika Perk Up Dry Shampoo is a game-changer when it comes to reviving your hair between washes. It absorbs excess oil, eliminates odor, and leaves your hair looking freshly washed, all without a trace of white residue.
With the power of nutrient-rich sea buckthorn and natural rice starch, this talc-free dry shampoo offers the ultimate solution for maintaining a clean and voluminous look without the need for a traditional wash.
My experience:
It lives up to its promise by not leaving a white cast on my dark hair. It effortlessly refreshes my hair with an abundant volume, all while embracing me with its delightful scent — a blend of warm vanilla, spicy sweet clover, and fresh citrus. Just remember to ensure you work it thoroughly into your hair for the best results.
What I like:
No white residue, even on dark hair.
Absorbs excess oil and reduces odor effectively.
Adds volume and revitalizes flat hair.
Free from sulfates, parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, and petrolatum.
Safe for colored and keratin-treated hair.
Best suited for:
Amika Perk Up Dry Shampoo is worth the investment for individuals who wants a quick refresh and extend the time between washes. It's especially beneficial on the second or third day, providing that freshly-washed look while absorbing excess oil and adding volume.
FAQs
What are the best ingredients to look for in shampoos for oily hair?
The best ingredients for shampoos targeting oily hair include tea tree oil, salicylic acid, witch hazel, citrus extracts, clay, aloe vera, menthol, and vitamin E. These ingredients help cleanse the scalp, control oil production, and maintain scalp health.
How often should I shampoo oily hair?
The frequency of shampooing oily hair can vary based on your hair's unique needs and personal preferences. As a professional hairstylist, I recommend avoiding daily hair washing, as overwashing can stimulate your scalp to produce more oil. Ideally, shampooing your oily scalp every other day or every 3 days should suffice to maintain a healthy balance.
How much shampoo should I use for oily hair?
The amount of shampoo you use for oily hair should be just enough to create a gentle lather. You don't need a large amount, as excessive shampoo can strip your hair of its natural oils and potentially lead to increased oil production. Start with a quarter-sized amount of shampoo, and adjust as needed based on your hair's thickness. Remember, it's all about finding the right balance to effectively clean your hair without overdoing it.
Why should I double shampoo my oily hair?
Double shampooing your hair provides a deep and thorough scalp cleanse. The first wash effectively breaks down dirt, oils, and product buildup in your hair, while the second wash ensures the removal of any residual impurities that may not have been completely washed out during the initial shampoo. This approach to shampooing helps your hair stay fresh for a longer duration, delaying the onset of oiliness.
Is clarifying shampoo suitable for oily hair?
Clarifying shampoo is not the ideal choice for frequent use on oily hair. It's best to limit its usage to once a month, as excessive use can strip your hair of its natural oils.
Is dry shampoo effective for oily hair?
Yes, dry shampoo is an effective solution for managing oily hair. It helps extend the time between washes, keeping your hair looking fresh.
Can I use a regular shampoo on oily hair?
Volume shampoos are best for an oily scalp. These shampoos are lightweight and are formulated to give you a deeper cleanse.
Are natural or organic shampoos effective for oily hair?
Natural or organic shampoos can be effective for oily hair, but the key is to look for products specifically designed for this hair type. Some natural ingredients like tea tree oil, aloe vera, and citrus extracts are known for their cleansing and oil-balancing properties, making them suitable for managing oiliness.
Should I use conditioner after shampooing oily hair?
Yes, you can use conditioner after shampooing oily hair, but it's essential to choose a lightweight conditioner and apply it primarily to the hair's mid-lengths and ends while avoiding the scalp. This helps maintain the needed moisture balance without adding extra weight to the roots.
Final Verdict
Switching your shampoo to fit the specific needs of your hair concerns is one step in the right direction to overcoming your oily hair. But that's not all - there's a whole world of hair care to uncover.
If you're dedicated to understanding your hair's unique needs & care for it, then my "Hair Care 101" eBook is your perfect guide. With over 100 pages of valuable insights, it includes everything you need to know about how to analyze your hair needs and perfect your routine accordingly.
We go over caring for your hair, scalp, mid-lengths to ends, and all the product recommendations and application tips I've learned in my 10+ years as a hairstylist. I’ve created this to help you achieve the hair of your dreams, all in the comfort of your own home. Grab yours now.
Now, it's your turn to chime in! I want to hear from you. Share your favorite shampoo for oily hair or any personal hair care tips in the comments section below. Your input could be the game-changer someone is searching for.
