What Causes an Oily Scalp and How to Fix it

What Can Cause an Oily Scalp?

An oily scalp is caused by an excess production of sebum, which is the natural oil produced by the scalp. Typically are a two factors that can contribute to an oily scalp, either not properly cleaning the scalp and washing your hair too frequently.

 

Not Properly Cleaning Your Scalp

If you have an oily scalp, there are a few steps you can take to help improve the condition of your scalp and reduce excess oil production:

1. Wash your hair frequently: Oily scalp can be caused by not washing the scalp frequently enough. Washing your hair every day or every other day can help remove excess oil and keep your scalp clean. Once you get your scalp trained and oil under control you can try every other day. 

2. Use a clarifying shampoo: A clarifying shampoo like SuddzFx Nyrvana can help remove excess oil and product buildup from the scalp. Look for a shampoo that contains ingredients like tea tree oil or salicylic acid, which can help regulate oil production and keep the scalp clean.

3. Avoid using too much hair product: Using too much hair product can weigh down the hair and clog the pores on the scalp, leading to excess oil production. Be mindful of the amount of product you use and try to use lightweight, oil-free products whenever possible.

Washing Your Hair Too Frequently

Yes, there is such a thing as washing your hair too often. If you wash your hair daily and are struggling with an oily scalp, this is probably the cause. When you wash your hair, you remove the natural oils from your scalp. Doing this too frequently will strip the oils completely, causing your scalp to over produce oil and thus make your hair oily.

1. Don't wash your hair every day: Try going 2-3 days in-between washes to start. This is referred to as training your hair; you will reset your scalps oil production and replenish the natural oils on your scalp during this time.

2. Put down the clarifying shampoo: If you use a clarifying shampoo for every wash, STOP! Your hair cannot get extremely dirty over the course of 24 hours, especially not enough to need a clarifying shampoo. Take a break from it, your normal shampoo is enough.

If you're struggling going in-between washes, a dry shampoo will help absorb your oils 

Conclusion

An oily scalp can be frustrating, but with a few simple steps, you can improve the condition of your scalp and reduce excess oil production. By washing your hair more frequently (if you're a once a week washer), using a clarifying shampoo, avoiding excess product use, eating a healthy diet, and reducing stress, you can help keep your scalp clean and healthy.  Feel free to come in to any of our locations for a consultation and speak to a stylist about more tips on how to control any scalp issues.