Glossy yet unsatisfactorily so, greasy hair can turn out to be quite a nuisance. One day you shampoo it, and by the following day, it seems as though it was immersed in cooking oil? Stay calm! The issue doesn’t lie with your hair directly; instead, it’s frequently our routines—practiced under the assumption of correctness—that exacerbate the condition. Below are all the things you should definitely steer clear of to stop your scalp from becoming an overproducing sebum plant.
What causes our hair to be greasy? It's due to sebum.
Sebum, which is a material naturally secreted by the scalp’s oil glands, serves a protective function: it moisturizes, nurtures, and shields the hair strands against outside damages. However, occasionally, these glands become overly active, resulting in excess production of sebum. This can happen due to various factors:
- Factors related to hormones (such as puberty, menstruation cycle, pregnancy, etc.)
- Stress and fatigue
- A diet excessively high in sugars and saturated fats
- Use of unsuitable products
- Actions for hair care that overly increase oil secretion
What to absolutely avoid
1. Cleaning your hair excessively frequently
It can be enticing: the quicker your hair regrows, the more often you might feel like washing it. However, this unhealthy pattern just exacerbates the issue. The greater frequency of shampooing prompts your scalp to produce additional sebum as compensation.
Instead: Slowly increase the intervals between shampooing sessions. If you cleanse your hair daily, switch to every alternate day, followed by washing it just twice weekly. This way, your scalp can adjust over time.
2. Utilizing shampoos that are overly harsh
Certain "oil-control" shampoos can be overly harsh, stripping away the scalp’s natural defenses. This triggers an increase in oil production as the scalp attempts to restore balance.
Instead: Select mild shampoos that do not contain sulfates and silicones. Products containing ingredients like nettle, clay, or tea tree oil work well for controlling sebum production without harming your scalp.
3. Combing your hair excessively or with too much force
Overbrushing can activate the sebaceous glands, leading to increased oil secretion. Moreover, a dirty brush that isn’t properly cleansed gathers dust and leftover products, causing these particles to be reapplied onto your hair.
Instead: Combing your hair one or two times daily using a pristine, organic-bristled brush, along with regular cleansing, will keep it fresh.
4. Frequently running your fingers through your hair
Continuously ruffling your hair doesn't just transfer additional oil; it also moves dirt and impurities onto your strands.
Instead: If you often find yourself playing with your hair, consider tying it into a half-up ponytail or a loose braid to reduce the urge.
5. Using excessively nourishing products at the roots
Hydrating masks, oils, leave-in treatments—while excellent for the mid-lengths and tips—they can be quite effective at making your scalp oily once more.
Instead: Consistently apply your treatments while keeping away from the roots, and ensure you rinse thoroughly until no residue remains.
6. Washing your hair with water that is excessively hot
Hot water widens the hair follicles on your scalp and boosts oil generation.
Instead: Always finish your wash with a warm or cold water rinse. This tightens the hair cuticles and soothes the scalp.
Alternatives that make a difference
Luckily, there are several easy tips to maintain your hairstyle and keep your hair fresh for a longer period:
- Dry shampoo: During touch-ups, it removes extra oil and adds back volume.
- Green clay mask: Applied weekly to the scalp, it assists in controlling oil secretion.
- Balanced diet: Cutting down on reducing sugars and saturated fats can help control excessive sebum production.
- Gentle scalp massages: While shampooing, apply gentle massages to boost blood flow without stimulating the oil-producing glands.
- Limit tight accessories: Tight hairstyles and hats lead to increased heat buildup and consequently more sebum production.
Oily hair doesn’t have to be a certainty! With a softer regimen and by steering clear of typical errors, your scalp can slowly restore its equilibrium. Allow your hair to take a breath, care for it gently, and it will reward you with a naturally fresh and lightweight appearance.