How to Address an Oily Scalp

When it comes to the hair care front, there are a few mistakes we’ve all made from time to time. Maybe you’ve over-applied your hair products or skipped out on your wash day routine, and in turn, you may have been left to deal with an oily scalp. Or you could just be one of those people who naturally has an oily scalp. 

Having an oily scalp is an pain because it typically means your hair looks greasy more than it looks clean, and you have to wash and style your hair often. Truth be told, some people have a natural predisposition to an oily scalp while others may experience it seasonally. Whatever your situation may be, the good news is that the right hair care products can help to minimize oils. Keep reading to learn how you can manage an oily scalp, plus the best hair care products to keep on hand. 

What Causes an Oily Scalp?

Before we dive into tackling an oily scalp, it’s important to know what causes this pesky concern. Some people naturally have an oily scalp, but using the wrong hair care products can also lead to increased oils. Think about it: If you’re washing your strands with a deeply nourishing hair care system when you already have oily strands, it will probably make your hair even oilier. 

Ironically, overwashing your hair can also lead to increased oils. Every time you wash your strands, your hair follicles produce more oil (sebum) to replace what’s lost in order to keep the hair and scalp hydrated. So, if you find yourself washing your strands more than necessary, it can strip your strands of its natural oils, which will cause your scalp to go into overdrive with sebum production. Other causes for an oily scalp include product buildup, which can lead to lackluster, hard-to-style hair. 

Can You Have an Oily Scalp and Dry Hair?

While an oily scalp naturally goes hand-in-hand with greasy hair, that doesn’t mean that other hair types can’t experience this pesky concern. If you’ve thought that the oily scalp and dry hair myth is a simple misconception, think again. Just like your skin, you can have a combination of hair types, (especially if you color or bleach your hair). Hence, why it's important to lock down the right hair care regimen for a happy and healthy-looking scalp.

Is an Oily Scalp Good Or Bad?

While realizing that you have an oily scalp can cause some concern, there is no need to worry. As we mentioned, it’s important for your scalp to produce oils to maintain a healthy appearance. However, too much can adversely affect your scalp, so it’s all about keeping your scalp clean and balanced.

How to Manage an Oily Scalp

Now that you have a better understanding of an oily scalp, here are products and tips you can use to manage it. 

1. Reach for a Scalp Treatment

One of the best ways to give your hair and scalp some well-deserved TLC is to use a weekly treatment. We suggest L’Oréal Paris Elvive Hyaluron Pure Oil Erasing Serum for Oily Hair, a purifying scalp treatment formulated with salicylic acid and hyaluronic acid to remove buildup and excess oils while hydrating the scalp for up to 72 hours. Use it one to two times a week before shampoo and conditioner. 

2. Use the Right Hair Care System

The key to handling an oily scalp like a pro is to always have your shower stocked with the right essentials. A fabulous place to start is with a hair care system for an oily scalp. L’Oréal Paris Elvive Hyaluron Plus Pure 72H Purifying Shampoo for Oily Hair and L’Oréal Paris Elvive Hyaluron Pure 72H Rehydrating Conditioner for Oily Hair contains salicylic acid and hyaluronic acid to minimize excess oils and remove scalp build up without stripping hair of moisture. Apply the shampoo to wet strands, gently massaging it onto your scalp and hair, rinse and follow up with the conditioner. The paraben-free formula includes a fresh scent of bright berries, cherry blossom, sweet vanilla and sandalwood.

3. Consider the Styling Products You’re Using

While some hair styling products may have become permanent fixtures in your routine, others can exacerbate the look of an oily scalp. Many hair products are formulated with hydrating oils that can weigh your hair down and give your scalp a greasy look. Always steer away from oil-infused products, and remember to focus application on the length and ends of your hair. 

4. Grab Dry Shampoo

There's a reason why dry shampoo is considered to be a holy grail beauty product. Not only does this offering help to refresh your strands by absorbing excess oils, but it can also tide you over until it's time for your next wash session. Just be sure not to overdo it, as it can lead to product buildup.

Next: 6 Ways to Protect Your Hair Against Hard Water Exposure

Photo Courtesy of L'Oréal Paris