hairstyle trends 25 Hairstyles for Greasy Hair That Will Hide Oily Roots

We’ve all been there: Instead of following through with a regular shampoo routine, you skip a few days (or weeks) and find yourself dealing with greasy hair. While it can be a pain to tackle, it doesn’t mean that all is lost on the hairstyling front. If you’re in a lazy rut or are all out of dry shampoo, there are a myriad of hairstyles that can tide you over if you find yourself asking, what hairstyle should I do for greasy hair?

The possibilities for concealing your oily hair are vast, and for anyone looking for a quick and stylish fix, we’re rounding up everything from chic updos to half-up styles. Below, the 25 best hairstyles for greasy hair that will help disguise your soiled strands perfectly.

1. Messy Bun

How do you cover up greasy hair? Well, with the hottest hair trends and classic styles that disguise limp, slick roots. A messy bun is a fabulous (and fuss-free) option for those who are not looking for an intricate hairstyle. It’s not labor-intensive to execute and will also look chic on everyone. Plus, it hides those greasy strands seamlessly since your hair is pulled upward on your head and away from your face.

2. Low Bun

The low bun offers an elegant and polished finish. This stylish number also keeps your mane looking smooth at all angles for an overall winning look. Start by gathering all of your hair at the nape of your neck and pull it into a low ponytail. Roll the length around its base to form a bun. Secure with bobby pins to hold the style in place. Finish off the look with a spritz of hairspray, like the L'Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold, Light Hairspray Unscented, to keep any frizz or flyaways at bay.

3. Sleek Side Bun

The sleek side bun is another hairstyle that can do your greasy mane justice. We also love that it’s different from the everyday bun style you’ve grown accustomed to thanks to its asymmetrical vibe. All you need is a touch of hair gel, and it will be difficult to tell that you’re working with unwashed hair.

Simply add hair gel, like the L’Oréal Paris Studio Line Clean Gel to your roots. Brush your hair towards both sides of your head. Secure your strands with a side ponytail and twist the length to create a bun. Feel free to add a few pins into the mix to achieve the ultimate sleek style.

4. Space Buns

If you’re like us, then you’re always looking for ways to spice up your beauty look. There are a variety of bun styles out there, and space buns continue to reign supreme. It’s a playful and carefree option that masks your greasy tresses without any fuss. 

5. Brun

Meet the brun: It’s a hairstyle that combines a braid with a classic bun. This ‘do will come to the rescue for anyone looking to rock an intricate-looking style with minimal work.

Simply create a high ponytail, then braid it halfway down your lengths. Take the hair and wrap it around the base of your pony, ensuring that the braid is visible at the front and the unbraided portion is used to finish the bun. Add some bobby pins to the mix if you need extra help keeping your brun in place.

6. Double Dutch Braids

If you love the look of plaits and want to try an upgraded version, double Dutch braids make for a solid pick. This trendy hairstyle keeps your strands stylishly tucked away and disguises second-day hair or greasy strands. It’s a nice change of pace from other braided ‘dos that require a ton of time weaving in front of the mirror.

7. Double Dutch Low Bun

Once you’ve mastered your double Dutch braids, try the double Dutch low bun. This style — which happens to do a fantastic job at concealing greasy hair — pairs a beautiful woven pattern with an edgy updo for a statement-making finish.

Kick things off by splitting your hair into a middle part and clip one side out of the way. Grab three equally-sized sections at your hairline and weave a Dutch braid. When you reach the nape of your neck, secure it with a hair elastic. Repeat the process on the other side. 

Once your Dutch braids are in place, add a dime-size amount of the L’Oréal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths Frizz Killer Leave-In Serum to the length of your hair to make the strands smooth. Then, combine the ends of both braids together and twist them into a bun. Secure flyaways and loose strands with bobby pins, and your look is complete.

8. Side Braid With A Headband

A simple side braid is a quick pick to jazz up your greasy hair. This regal style features a classic side plait with a crowd-pleasing headband. To DIY, brush your hair toward either side of your head, gather three equally-sized strands, and weave away. Once you reach the ends, secure with a hair tie, place a glitzy headband of choice on your head, and voilà! Your accessorized look à la Blair Waldorf is complete.

9. Halo Braid

Whimsical hairstyles give your mane a romantic touch, and the halo braid falls right in line. It’s a classy option that’s playful, sassy and keeps your hair off of your face. Check out our article on how to do a halo braid, to master the trend.

10. Fishtail Braid

Now that we have classic styles on your mind, let’s not forget about the Pinterest-worthy fishtail braid. This look consists of an intricate braiding technique that provides your hair with a chunky, yet eye-catching style. For some pointers on how to create this look yourself, read our article, How to Do a Fishtail Braid.

11. Fishtail Ponytail Braid

A fishtail ponytail is another option that can add some pizzazz to your strands. Consider it as having the best of both worlds: a chic fishtail pattern married to a functional classic ‘do. The style may seem like a difficult one to master, but it’s actually pretty easy to DIY.

Try it at home by pulling your strands into a ponytail as you normally would. Next, split the length of your ponytail into two even sections. Take a tiny amount of hair from the outer edge of one section and cross it over to the other side. Continue switching back and forth between sections until you reach the end of your hair.

12. French Braid With A Headband

If it wasn’t already obvious, we clearly have a thing for braids. Another one on our radar is the French braid. The French braid is an elegant and stylish number that can be worn down for work or up for a celebratory occasion. Adding a headband to the look gives it a flattering, face-framing element. Visit our article on how to French braid your hair, to give your greasy hair a graceful vibe.

13. Classic Braided Ponytail

Hairstyles for greasy hair don’t have to be complicated, and the braided ponytail makes a snazzy case for that. Pulling your hair back is a foolproof method for masking grease on any hair type, and the woven detailing adds an unexpected touch that works in your favor. 

We also dig that you can style this look in a few minutes. Start by fastening your hair into a ponytail. Separate your hair into three equally-sized sections, create a three-strand braid and secure the end with a hair tie if necessary.

14. Face-Framing Baby Braids

Face-framing baby braids are the latest ’90s hair trend making a huge comeback. As seen recently on influencers and celebrities, the old-school hairstyle comprises two teeny, tiny strands braided on either side of your face to create tendrils. It’s a great go-to if you need to disguise oily fringes. Throw in a few hair jewels and no one will ever know you’re suffering from any hair woes. 

15. Bubble Braids

Bubble braids will add a fun vibe to your strands and elevate your daily hairdo. This fabulous braid-meets-ponytail style revamps your look and flaunts the classic ponytail aesthetic you love with a volumized spin. Check out our article, How To Bubble Braid Your Hair in 5 Steps, to help you bring this look to life.

16. Sleek Ponytail

Sure, big hair is in, but that doesn’t mean you can’t give the sleek ponytail a go. It’s a versatile style that is all about creating a smooth finish for a fresh-out-of-the-salon look — and yes, it’s achievable even in the summer. It’s also a modern option that works for the office or enjoying a girl’s night. Grab your L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold, Light Hairspray to get started.

17. Claw Clip Updo

Thanks to TikTok, we’re officially obsessed with claw clips again (another ’90s trend that’s come full circle). With so many designs to choose from, they are incredibly chic and can pull together your entire look. Not to mention, claw clips are extremely practical at not only taming pesky flyaways but also hiding any hair grease. Twist your hair up into the viral ’90s updo or secure it into a half-up, half-down look — whichever you choose, you can’t go wrong. The (claw clip) world is your oyster.

18. Half-Up Top Knot

Half-up top knots are an old-school look that seems to have never gone out of style. And with many influencers wearing the style, it comes in handy as a fashionable way to conceal greasy hair. It keeps the oiliest sections of your hair tamed while allowing the remainder of your hair to hang free.

To get the look, divide your strands into two parts — a top and bottom layer. Clip the bottom half out of the way. Gather your top section into a ponytail and twist the length around its base. Secure it with a few bobby pins.

19. Half-Up Beehive

Retro hairstyles make it easy to give newer styles a break. The half-up beehive helps you score major height and pays homage to the ’60s era. Start by splitting your hair into a top and bottom section. Clip the bottom half away. Using a pintail comb, tease the top section of your hair, smooth it back and secure with bobby pins for a voluminous look. Release your bottom layer of hair.

20. Slicked Back

The slicked-back hairstyle will come to the rescue if you don’t have enough time for a wash session. It’s a loose look that gives your strands a super-sleek finish without any flyaways. Brush through your hair to take out any tangles or knots. Using a pintail comb, tease your hair at the crown. Apply a small dollop of hair gel — such as the L'Oréal Paris Studio Line Mega Gel — to your roots and smooth your hair back. Pin the sides of your hair with a few bobby pins to keep your hair in place.

21. Textured Faux Hawk

This style is a textured version of a rocker-inspired mohawk look that’s perfect for those with natural hair. All you need to do is apply a small amount of gel to the sides of your hair and brush upward. Finish up by pinning your hair in place and fluffing your strands.

22. High Puff With A Head Scarf

Also great for natural hair textures, a high puff with a colorful head scarf is a simple look that doesn’t skimp on style. It’s a popular choice for hiding greasy tresses since the headscarf wraps around a large part of your hair. 

To create the look, add a small amount of hair gel to your roots and brush your strands toward the crown of your head. Gather your hair into a high ponytail and secure it with a hair tie. Wrap your head scarf around the back of your head and pull the ends toward the front. Create a small knot or bow with the scarf just above your bun.

23. Loose Chignon

The loose chignon is a tasteful style that steers away from the classic bun. It’s a French variation of the timeless look that leaves you with a sophisticated ‘do. Read through our article, How to Master a Chignon Hairstyle in 5 Easy Steps, to see what all the hype is about.

24. Side-Part With Sparkly Bobby Pins

Your first thought may be that wearing your greasy tresses in a loose style is the ultimate no-no. Thankfully, you can make some magic happen with a side part (sorry Gen Z!) and sparkly bobby pins or barrettes. After all, hair accessories are a chic distraction from oily roots. 

Simply create a side part on either side of your head, and comb through your strands. On the other side, place pins with the grooved side up in your hair for a stacked look.

25. Bantu Knots

This style is a natural hair staple that involves creating tiny buns (or knots) throughout your hair. It’s a unique option for those looking for protective styles without the need for hair extensions. Plus, it’s a fun and creative way to level up your daily look if you’re bored of the same-old, same-old. You’re also left with gorgeous curls for the day once you take the knots down. Check out our article, How to Do Bantu Knots, for a hairstyling lesson.

Next: 7 Tips To Get Poof-Free Fluffy Hair

Updated by: Shalwah Evans, Photo Credit: Chaunte Vaughn

2. Low Bun

The low bun offers an elegant and polished finish. This stylish number also keeps your mane looking smooth at all angles for an overall winning look. Start by gathering all of your hair at the nape of your neck and pull it into a low ponytail. Roll the length around its base to form a bun. Secure with bobby pins to hold the style in place. Finish off the look with a spritz of hairspray, like the L'Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold, Light Hairspray Unscented, to keep any frizz or flyaways at bay.

3. Sleek Side Bun

The sleek side bun is another hairstyle that can do your greasy mane justice. We also love that it’s different from the everyday bun style you’ve grown accustomed to thanks to its asymmetrical vibe. All you need is a touch of hair gel, and it will be difficult to tell that you’re working with unwashed hair.

Simply add hair gel, like the L’Oréal Paris Studio Line Clean Gel to your roots. Brush your hair towards both sides of your head. Secure your strands with a side ponytail and twist the length to create a bun. Feel free to add a few pins into the mix to achieve the ultimate sleek style.

4. Space Buns

If you’re like us, then you’re always looking for ways to spice up your beauty look. There are a variety of bun styles out there, and space buns continue to reign supreme. It’s a playful and carefree option that masks your greasy tresses without any fuss. 

5. Brun

Meet the brun: It’s a hairstyle that combines a braid with a classic bun. This ‘do will come to the rescue for anyone looking to rock an intricate-looking style with minimal work.

Simply create a high ponytail, then braid it halfway down your lengths. Take the hair and wrap it around the base of your pony, ensuring that the braid is visible at the front and the unbraided portion is used to finish the bun. Add some bobby pins to the mix if you need extra help keeping your brun in place.

6. Double Dutch Braids

If you love the look of plaits and want to try an upgraded version, double Dutch braids make for a solid pick. This trendy hairstyle keeps your strands stylishly tucked away and disguises second-day hair or greasy strands. It’s a nice change of pace from other braided ‘dos that require a ton of time weaving in front of the mirror.

7. Double Dutch Low Bun

Once you’ve mastered your double Dutch braids, try the double Dutch low bun. This style — which happens to do a fantastic job at concealing greasy hair — pairs a beautiful woven pattern with an edgy updo for a statement-making finish.

Kick things off by splitting your hair into a middle part and clip one side out of the way. Grab three equally-sized sections at your hairline and weave a Dutch braid. When you reach the nape of your neck, secure it with a hair elastic. Repeat the process on the other side. 

Once your Dutch braids are in place, add a dime-size amount of the L’Oréal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths Frizz Killer Leave-In Serum to the length of your hair to make the strands smooth. Then, combine the ends of both braids together and twist them into a bun. Secure flyaways and loose strands with bobby pins, and your look is complete.

8. Side Braid With A Headband

A simple side braid is a quick pick to jazz up your greasy hair. This regal style features a classic side plait with a crowd-pleasing headband. To DIY, brush your hair toward either side of your head, gather three equally-sized strands, and weave away. Once you reach the ends, secure with a hair tie, place a glitzy headband of choice on your head, and voilà! Your accessorized look à la Blair Waldorf is complete.

9. Halo Braid

Whimsical hairstyles give your mane a romantic touch, and the halo braid falls right in line. It’s a classy option that’s playful, sassy and keeps your hair off of your face. Check out our article on how to do a halo braid, to master the trend.

10. Fishtail Braid

Now that we have classic styles on your mind, let’s not forget about the Pinterest-worthy fishtail braid. This look consists of an intricate braiding technique that provides your hair with a chunky, yet eye-catching style. For some pointers on how to create this look yourself, read our article, How to Do a Fishtail Braid.

11. Fishtail Ponytail Braid

A fishtail ponytail is another option that can add some pizzazz to your strands. Consider it as having the best of both worlds: a chic fishtail pattern married to a functional classic ‘do. The style may seem like a difficult one to master, but it’s actually pretty easy to DIY.

Try it at home by pulling your strands into a ponytail as you normally would. Next, split the length of your ponytail into two even sections. Take a tiny amount of hair from the outer edge of one section and cross it over to the other side. Continue switching back and forth between sections until you reach the end of your hair.

12. French Braid With A Headband

If it wasn’t already obvious, we clearly have a thing for braids. Another one on our radar is the French braid. The French braid is an elegant and stylish number that can be worn down for work or up for a celebratory occasion. Adding a headband to the look gives it a flattering, face-framing element. Visit our article on how to French braid your hair, to give your greasy hair a graceful vibe.

13. Classic Braided Ponytail

Hairstyles for greasy hair don’t have to be complicated, and the braided ponytail makes a snazzy case for that. Pulling your hair back is a foolproof method for masking grease on any hair type, and the woven detailing adds an unexpected touch that works in your favor. 

We also dig that you can style this look in a few minutes. Start by fastening your hair into a ponytail. Separate your hair into three equally-sized sections, create a three-strand braid and secure the end with a hair tie if necessary.

14. Face-Framing Baby Braids

Face-framing baby braids are the latest ’90s hair trend making a huge comeback. As seen recently on influencers and celebrities, the old-school hairstyle comprises two teeny, tiny strands braided on either side of your face to create tendrils. It’s a great go-to if you need to disguise oily fringes. Throw in a few hair jewels and no one will ever know you’re suffering from any hair woes. 

15. Bubble Braids

Bubble braids will add a fun vibe to your strands and elevate your daily hairdo. This fabulous braid-meets-ponytail style revamps your look and flaunts the classic ponytail aesthetic you love with a volumized spin. Check out our article, How To Bubble Braid Your Hair in 5 Steps, to help you bring this look to life.

16. Sleek Ponytail

Sure, big hair is in, but that doesn’t mean you can’t give the sleek ponytail a go. It’s a versatile style that is all about creating a smooth finish for a fresh-out-of-the-salon look — and yes, it’s achievable even in the summer. It’s also a modern option that works for the office or enjoying a girl’s night. Grab your L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold, Light Hairspray to get started.

17. Claw Clip Updo

Thanks to TikTok, we’re officially obsessed with claw clips again (another ’90s trend that’s come full circle). With so many designs to choose from, they are incredibly chic and can pull together your entire look. Not to mention, claw clips are extremely practical at not only taming pesky flyaways but also hiding any hair grease. Twist your hair up into the viral ’90s updo or secure it into a half-up, half-down look — whichever you choose, you can’t go wrong. The (claw clip) world is your oyster.

18. Half-Up Top Knot

Half-up top knots are an old-school look that seems to have never gone out of style. And with many influencers wearing the style, it comes in handy as a fashionable way to conceal greasy hair. It keeps the oiliest sections of your hair tamed while allowing the remainder of your hair to hang free.

To get the look, divide your strands into two parts — a top and bottom layer. Clip the bottom half out of the way. Gather your top section into a ponytail and twist the length around its base. Secure it with a few bobby pins.

19. Half-Up Beehive

Retro hairstyles make it easy to give newer styles a break. The half-up beehive helps you score major height and pays homage to the ’60s era. Start by splitting your hair into a top and bottom section. Clip the bottom half away. Using a pintail comb, tease the top section of your hair, smooth it back and secure with bobby pins for a voluminous look. Release your bottom layer of hair.

20. Slicked Back

The slicked-back hairstyle will come to the rescue if you don’t have enough time for a wash session. It’s a loose look that gives your strands a super-sleek finish without any flyaways. Brush through your hair to take out any tangles or knots. Using a pintail comb, tease your hair at the crown. Apply a small dollop of hair gel — such as the L'Oréal Paris Studio Line Mega Gel — to your roots and smooth your hair back. Pin the sides of your hair with a few bobby pins to keep your hair in place.

21. Textured Faux Hawk

This style is a textured version of a rocker-inspired mohawk look that’s perfect for those with natural hair. All you need to do is apply a small amount of gel to the sides of your hair and brush upward. Finish up by pinning your hair in place and fluffing your strands.

22. High Puff With A Head Scarf

Also great for natural hair textures, a high puff with a colorful head scarf is a simple look that doesn’t skimp on style. It’s a popular choice for hiding greasy tresses since the headscarf wraps around a large part of your hair. 

To create the look, add a small amount of hair gel to your roots and brush your strands toward the crown of your head. Gather your hair into a high ponytail and secure it with a hair tie. Wrap your head scarf around the back of your head and pull the ends toward the front. Create a small knot or bow with the scarf just above your bun.

23. Loose Chignon

The loose chignon is a tasteful style that steers away from the classic bun. It’s a French variation of the timeless look that leaves you with a sophisticated ‘do. Read through our article, How to Master a Chignon Hairstyle in 5 Easy Steps, to see what all the hype is about.

24. Side-Part With Sparkly Bobby Pins

Your first thought may be that wearing your greasy tresses in a loose style is the ultimate no-no. Thankfully, you can make some magic happen with a side part (sorry Gen Z!) and sparkly bobby pins or barrettes. After all, hair accessories are a chic distraction from oily roots. 

Simply create a side part on either side of your head, and comb through your strands. On the other side, place pins with the grooved side up in your hair for a stacked look.

25. Bantu Knots

This style is a natural hair staple that involves creating tiny buns (or knots) throughout your hair. It’s a unique option for those looking for protective styles without the need for hair extensions. Plus, it’s a fun and creative way to level up your daily look if you’re bored of the same-old, same-old. You’re also left with gorgeous curls for the day once you take the knots down. Check out our article, How to Do Bantu Knots, for a hairstyling lesson.

Next: 7 Tips To Get Poof-Free Fluffy Hair

Updated by: Shalwah Evans, Photo Credit: Chaunte Vaughn