Everyone has natural oil in their hair. This oil is called sebum and is produced by sebaceous glands, which is essential for keeping your scalp and hair moisturised. However, trouble can strike when these glands get overstimulated and produce too much oil, resulting in strands that look lank and flat. Worse still, excessive oil build-up can also trigger other scalp conditions including dandruff.
But don’t fret, as we’re here to help. We’ve gathered all our expertise into a helpful guide to walk you through what causes greasy hair and how to tackle it.
6 of the most common causes of greasy hair
Although genetics is one of the main causes of excessive oil production, there are other lifestyle factors that increase production levels which can be controlled. Read on to discover the 6 biggest causes of excess sebum and find out how to make your hair less greasy.
1. It’s in your genes
If one of your parents has greasy hair, we’re sorry to have to be the bearer of bad news but they may have passed this onto you. Don’t worry though, this doesn’t mean that all hope is lost. While we can’t do anything about our genes, using the right products can bring your oil levels under control. Using a shampoo and conditioner for oily hair like CLEAR Ice Cool Menthol Anti-dandruff Shampoo as part of your regular hair care will help to keep your scalp in check.
2. You have straight hair
Did you know that certain hair types are more prone to grease than others? For those with straight hair, the lack of texture or wave means that oils from the scalp can slip down the hair more easily, rather than collecting at just the roots. If this sounds like you, try switching to a shampoo for oily hair and you should see the benefits.
3. Your hormones are off balance
Hormone imbalances can cause all sorts of issues from weight gain to acne and, you guessed it, an oily scalp. Changes in hormone levels brought on by puberty, pregnancy and the menopause can all lead to higher or lower levels of oil being produced, which is why even those with dry hair might suddenly find their hair is greasier.
4. You’re touching your hair too much
Are you someone who’s constantly touching their hair? Every time you run your fingers through it or push it back out of your face, oils from your hands are transferred to your hair. Brushing your hair too much can also be to blame, as brushing distributes oil from your scalp through your hair lengths, so make sure you clean your comb or brushes at least once a week.
5. You work out a lot
While exercising doesn’t technically make your hair greasier, when you sweat the sweat moves down the hair shaft and taking oils along with it, which is what makes your hair look greasier. Our top greasy hair fix for gym-goers? Spray your roots with some dry shampoo before your workout. The dry shampoo will help to absorb the sweat and oils in your roots as you workout to keep your locks fresh. Alternatively, choose a deep cleansing shampoo for your post-workout shower that will remove sweat, excess oil, and any product build up.
6. You’re using too many products (or just the wrong type of products)
If you’re addicted to your styling products or using a shampoo and conditioner that are too heavy for your hair type, you could be making matters worse. If you’re oil-prone, avoid products targeted at dry hair and stay away from anything promising to add ‘shine’ or ‘gloss’. To treat product build-up, use a clarifying shampoo for oily hair like CLEAR Ice Cool Menthol Anti-dandruff Shampoo, to remove any leftover hair spray or dry shampoo that your regular shampoo might leave behind.
And there you have it, everything you need to know on what could be causing you to have greasy hair. If you’re still craving more insight to this issue, check out our article on oily scalps and what to do about them.
