What Is a Good Shampoo for Greasy Hair? Top Picks & Tips

Greasy hair can be frustrating, but finding the best shampoo for oily hair can transform your haircare routine and leave you with clean, fresh, and voluminous locks. Whether you’re dealing with oily roots, a flaky scalp, or dry ends, there’s a solution for everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top options for greasy hair, addressing common concerns and recommending products that work wonders.
Understanding Greasy Hair and Its Causes
Before diving into the best shampoo for oily hair, let’s explore why hair becomes greasy. Overactive sebaceous glands in the scalp produce excess sebum, leaving hair oily and limp. Hormonal changes, poor haircare habits, and even environmental factors can contribute to this issue.
The good news? With the right shampoo, you can manage greasy hair effectively. Here’s how to choose the right product for your hair type and concerns.
What Shampoo Is Best for Oily Hair?
When selecting a shampoo, look for formulas that:
- Are clarifying to remove excess oil and product buildup.
- Contain ingredients like tea tree oil, salicylic acid, or clay to balance oil production.
- Are sulfate-free to avoid stripping the scalp, which can lead to overproduction of oil.
Here are some excellent choices for greasy hair:
1. Best Shampoo for Oily Thin Hair
For those with thin hair, the key is a lightweight shampoo that won’t weigh your hair down. Look for products labeled “volumizing” or “lightweight,” as they help maintain bounce while controlling grease.
2. Best Shampoo for Oily Teenage Hair
Teenagers often experience hormonal fluctuations that lead to greasy hair. Shampoos with gentle clarifying properties are perfect for maintaining a clean scalp without being too harsh.
3. Best Shampoo for Oily Hair and Dandruff
If you’re dealing with both dandruff and oily hair, opt for shampoos with anti-dandruff ingredients like pyrithione zinc or ketoconazole. These ingredients combat flakes while keeping grease in check.
How Do I Stop My Hair from Getting Greasy?
While using the best shampoo for greasy hair is essential, proper haircare habits also play a significant role. Here are a few tips:
- Wash Less Frequently: Overwashing can strip natural oils, prompting your scalp to produce more oil. Start by washing every other day.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Residue from shampoo or conditioner can make hair feel greasy, so ensure you rinse thoroughly.
- Use the Right Conditioner: Apply conditioner only to the ends of your hair, avoiding the roots.
Best Shampoo for Oily Hair Recommended by Hairdressers
Professional hairdressers often recommend shampoos with ingredients that balance the scalp’s oil production without over-drying. Some highly recommended options include:
- Tea Tree Shampoo: Known for its antibacterial and clarifying properties, tea tree shampoo is ideal for oily scalps.
- Charcoal Shampoo: Charcoal helps detoxify the scalp, removing impurities and excess oil.
Hairdressers also emphasize the importance of using a gentle shampoo to prevent irritation and ensure long-term scalp health.
Best Shampoo for Oily Scalp and Dry Ends
An oily scalp and dry ends can be tricky to manage. The solution lies in using a shampoo that cleanses the scalp without dehydrating the hair strands. Look for nourishing shampoos with hydrating ingredients like aloe vera or argan oil.
Does Shampoo Stop Greasy Hair?
Yes, the right shampoo can significantly reduce greasiness. Clarifying shampoos are particularly effective in cutting through oil buildup. However, it’s equally important to follow a proper washing routine and avoid heavy styling products.
What Is a Good Shampoo for Greasy Hair Reddit?
Reddit users often recommend budget-friendly yet effective shampoos like Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo and OGX Tea Tree Mint Shampoo. These products receive high praise for their ability to tackle oiliness without stripping the scalp.
Best Shampoo for Greasy Hair Boots
For those in the UK, Boots offers a range of shampoos specifically formulated for greasy hair. Some top choices include:
- L’Oreal Paris Elvive Extraordinary Clay Shampoo: Perfect for balancing oily roots and hydrating ends.
- Herbal Essences White Strawberry and Sweet Mint Shampoo: Loved for its refreshing scent and oil-control properties.
How to Choose the Right Shampoo for Oily Hair
Here’s a quick checklist to help you select the best shampoo:
- Avoid Heavy Oils: Shampoos with coconut oil or similar ingredients can make greasy hair worse.
- Prioritize Clarifying Formulas: These remove buildup effectively.
- Look for Natural Ingredients: Tea tree oil, lemon, and clay work wonders for oily scalps.
Is Sunsilk Shampoo Good for Oily Hair?
Yes, Sunsilk offers shampoos tailored for oily hair, such as the Sunsilk Green Tea and Lemon Shampoo, which provides a deep cleanse while leaving hair fresh and voluminous. It’s affordable and widely available, making it an excellent choice for those dealing with greasy hair.
How Do I Stop My Hair from Getting Greasy?
Apart from using the best shampoo for greasy hair, follow these tips:
- Don’t Overbrush: Brushing stimulates the scalp and can spread oil.
- Avoid Touching Your Hair: Oils from your hands can transfer to your hair.
- Use Dry Shampoo: Between washes, dry shampoo can absorb excess oil and add volume.
Product | Key Ingredients | Best For | Unique Features | Price Range | Availability |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo | Clarifying Formula | Removing product buildup | Gentle yet effective detox | $$ | Drugstores, Online |
L’Oreal Elvive Extraordinary Clay | Clay-based | Balancing oily roots and dry ends | Triple-action hydrating and purifying | $$ | Boots, Online |
OGX Tea Tree Mint Shampoo | Tea Tree Oil, Peppermint | Oily scalp with a need for freshness | Cooling sensation and invigorating scent | $$ | Drugstores, Online |
Herbal Essences White Strawberry Mint | White Strawberry, Mint | Oily scalp with mild hydration needs | Refreshing fragrance, gentle cleansing | $ | Boots, Online |
Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Shampoo | Tea Tree Oil, Lavender, Peppermint | Oil control for all hair types | Scalp-tingling experience, salon quality | $$$ | Salons, Online |
Briogeo Scalp Revival Shampoo | Charcoal, Tea Tree, Coconut Oil | Detoxifying and hydrating oily scalps | Sulfate-free, safe for color-treated hair | $$$ | High-end retailers, Online |
Head & Shoulders Instant Oil Control | Pyrithione Zinc | Oily hair and dandruff | Combines oil control with anti-dandruff | $ | Drugstores, Online |
Aussie Total Miracle Shampoo | Aloe Vera, Sea Kelp | Oily scalp with frizzy or damaged ends | Affordable, multi-benefit formula | $ | Drugstores, Online |
Aveeno Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo | Apple Cider Vinegar | Oily scalp needing pH balance | Gentle pH balancing for shiny hair | $$ | Drugstores, Online |
Managing greasy hair doesn’t have to be a challenge. With the right shampoo and haircare routine, you can keep your locks fresh and full of life. Whether you’re looking for the best shampoo for oily teenage hair or a product recommended by hairdressers, there’s a perfect match for every need.

Carolina Herrera: Cosmetics specialist & Hair Analyst. Specializing in hair treatments, Carolina provides thorough reviews and advice on choosing the best products for damaged or treated hair.