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Top 5 Best Shampoos for Oily Hair

UpdatedJuly 23, 2024

Having oily hair is a real inconvenience at times. It can appear to be greasy and unkempt even when washed. This is why selecting the right shampoo is very important to maintain the attractiveness of hair and their proper condition. An ideal shampoo for oily hair should be capable of cleaning out the excessive sebum and at the same time refrain from robbing the hair follicles of their natural moisture.

When choosing a shampoo for the treatment of oily hair, it is important to consider the ingredients used. Do not use shampoos with sulfate, parabens, and silicones as these tend to strip the hair of the scalp oil making it even oilier. Choose those which are on a natural compound like tea tree oil, peppermint and lemon for they help in minimizing the secretion of the oil.

The other important thing that needs to be taken into account while selecting a shampoo for oily hair is The frequency. There are those shampoos that can be used daily, and others that are supposed to be washing our hair once or twice a week at most. If a person uses a shampoo regularly they wash their hair, over washing the hair causes it to loose its natural moisture leading to hair breakage.

In our lab, we washed our hair with ten different shampoos for oily hair and conducted a research on which of them are most effective. The challenge we had was to find shampoos that clean excessively oily hair, without harming the hair in the process. The criteria used to test the shampoos included checking on the quality all the ingredients used, smell, texture and efficiency of the shampoos.

After extensive testing and research, we have narrowed down the best shampoos for oily hair that will make your hair shiny and full.

Top 3 Best Shampoo for Oily Hair

  1. Aveeno Scalp Soothing Shampoo
  2. Neutrogena Exfoliating Healthy Scalp Clarify & Shine Shampoo for Oily Hair and Scalp
  3. MONDAY HAIRCARE Clarify Shampoo and Conditioner Set

We comprehend your situation to deal with super oily hair. Daily washing can be an inconvenience especially when you are forced to wash your hair every day to ensure it is clean. This is why we’ve put together a list of the best shampoos for greasy hair, below for your consideration. These shampoos are designed to wash your hair and the scalp to eliminate excessive oil on hair that causes dullness and oily scalp. Having reviewed and used all the products on this list, we can vouch for their efficacy and harmlessness to your hair. And without any more delays here are the best shampoos when it comes to dealing with oily hair.


Aveeno Scalp Soothing Shampoo

Editor's Choice

Aveeno Scalp Soothing Shampoo

Experience the ultimate hair cleanse with Aveeno Scalp Soothing Shampoo. Its gentle oat-based formula and apple cider vinegar effortlessly refresh your hair and scalp, leaving them clean and revitalized. Safe for all hair types, this sulfate-free gem is a must-try for those craving a natural, healthy shine.

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We would definitely recommend the Aveeno Scalp Soothing Shampoo for anyone seeking to cleanse their hair and scalp without leading to dryness.

Pros

  • The shampoo contains oat as its first ingredient, which is gentle and soothing on the scalp.
  • Infused with apple cider vinegar, this shampoo helps to clarify the hair and scalp, leaving it feeling clean and refreshed.
  • The sulfate-free formula is safe for all hair types, including color-treated hair.

Cons

  • The shampoo doesn't lather as much as other shampoos, so you may need to use more product than you're used to.
  • Some users have reported a residue left on their bathtub or shower floor after using the shampoo.
  • The scent may not be for everyone, as it has a slightly medicinal smell.

This shampoo is suitable for those who wish to wash hair and scalp without affecting the natural moisture content of the hair. The oat based formula is mild and non irritating to the scalp while the addition of apple cider vinegar helps to un-clog the hair and scalp thus giving a squeaky clean feeling. All hair types including processed, chemically treated or damaged hair can use the sulfate free formula without any harm.

Hence, in case you are in need of a shampoo that one leaves your hair feeling fresh and clean but does not dry it up, we would recommend the Aveeno Scalp Soothing Shampoo.


Neutrogena Exfoliating Healthy Scalp Clarify & Shine Shampoo for Oily Hair and Scalp

Neutrogena Exfoliating Healthy Scalp Clarify & Shine Shampoo for Oily Hair and Scalp

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If you are in the market in search of a mild, yet powerful shampoo that clears and exfoliates the oily hairs’ and scalp, then the Neutrogena Exfoliating Healthy Scalp Clarify & Shine Shampoo for Oily Hair and Scalp may interest you.

Pros

  • This clarifying shampoo helps bust through residue and build-up for all hair types.
  • The refreshing pink grapefruit blend acts as a natural exfoliant and adds shine to hair.
  • Free from parabens, phthalates, sulfated surfactants, SLS and SLES.

Cons

  • The scent of pink grapefruit might be too strong for some people.
  • It might not be suitable for people with dry hair.


This healthy scalp clarify and shine shampoo for oily hair & scalp is a non-medicated exfoliating shampoo that conforms to the needs of the scalp while maintaining the beauty of colored hair. Oily scalp and hair is what is targeted best but it can be used on all hair types; straight, wavy, curly hair included. The daily use of the shampoo was useful for helping the scalp keep its normal barrier through the week.

From our investigation, it can be concluded that this shampoo provides a rich and dense lather and hair becomes clean and regenerated after using it. The smell is very nice and rather citrus like, more precisely the smell of pink grapefruit; however, it may be a bit overpowering for some. For those with very dry hair, this shampoo is best used sparingly because it could potentially strip hair of too much moisture.

In conclusion, Neutrogena Exfoliating Healthy Scalp Clarify & Shine Shampoo for Oily Hair and Scalp is recommended for individuals with oily hair and scalp requiring exfoliation and a clarifying shampoo.


MONDAY HAIRCARE Clarify Shampoo and Conditioner Set

MONDAY HAIRCARE Clarify Shampoo and Conditioner Set

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If you have an oily hair type, we suggest buying the MONDAY HAIRCARE Clarify Shampoo and Conditioner Set. This set of shampoo and conditioner is among the best uttermost natural that contains grapefruit extract, coconut oil, shea butter, Vitamin E and Provitamin B5 for an invigorated hair.

Pros

  • The MONDAY HAIRCARE Clarify Shampoo and Conditioner Set is deeply clarifying and balancing, making it perfect for oily hair.
  • The premium formulas of MONDAY Haircare's range of Shampoo and Conditioners are dermatologically tested, pH-balanced, and SLS-free and paraben-free.
  • MONDAY Haircare's products are certified cruelty-free under the Leaping Bunny programme by Cruelty Free International.

Cons

  • The bottles are made from recyclable plastic, which is great for the environment, but they may not be as durable as some other shampoo and conditioner bottles.
  • Some users have reported issues with the pumps not working properly.
  • The scent of the MONDAY HAIRCARE Clarify Shampoo and Conditioner Set may not be for everyone.

Think of MONDAY HAIRCARE Clarify Shampoo and Conditioner Set if you are in need of a shampoo and conditioner set that will help you start fresh and clean while also stimulating your hair follicles. It is especially close to the scalp since it has a deeply clarifying and balancing formula that is ideal for people with oily hair; additionally, the presence of natural ingredients will give your hair a healthy and nourished look.

The MONDAY HAIRCARE Clarify Shampoo and Conditioner Set are also cruelty-free, so you can use this product stress-free. Also, it has to mention that the bottles are made from the recyclable plastic, which can benefit the surroundings significantly.

All in all, for people with oily hair in particular, the MONDAY HAIRCARE Clarify Shampoo and Conditioner Set will prove to be a premium quality natural shampoo and conditioner set.


Maple Holistics Degrease Shampoo

Maple Holistics Degrease Shampoo

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If you need a sulfate-free, all natural hair shampoo that suits for oily hair and scalp, Maple Holistics Degrease Shampoo could be a perfect choice.

Pros

  • The natural ingredients, including rosemary oil, cypress oil, and lemon oil, help to cleanse and clarify the scalp without stripping it of its natural oils.
  • The shampoo is gentle enough for daily use and can help to control oiliness and prevent dandruff.
  • The formula is sulfate-free, paraben-free, and cruelty-free.

Cons

  • Some users may find that the shampoo doesn't lather as well as other products, which can make it difficult to distribute throughout the hair.
  • The scent of the shampoo may not be to everyone's liking.
  • The price point may be higher than other drugstore shampoos.

As much as the Maple Holistics Degrease Shampoo is concerned, in our experience this product is an ideal one for the people who are suffering from the oils hairs and scalp. The components that are found in the natural environment work effectively to clean and brighten the hair while not removing its prime asset- oil. It is important to note that the shampoo does not contain sulfate, paraben and it is not tested on animals.

Something that is worth mentioning is that the shampoo is not as foamy as other products and thus does not spread as easily through the hair. Also, the scent of the product may be an issue, though it is not very strong: some people may simply not find it pleasant.

All in all, we suggest trying Maple Holistics Degrease Shampoo if you are in for a natural, sulfate-free battle against oily hair and scalp.


Tea Tree Special Shampoo

Tea Tree Special Shampoo

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When you need a shampoo that can really cleanse the hair and the scalp then Tea Tree Special Shampoo is created for you. This product is definitely suitable for all hair types, though arguably most suitable for oily hair.

Pros

  • Leaves hair feeling clean and refreshed
  • Invigorating scent of tea tree oil, peppermint, and lavender
  • Helps minimize oily scalp and hair

Cons

  • May be too drying for some hair types
  • Strong scent may not be for everyone
  • Some may find the price point a bit high

Tea Tree Special Shampoo has indeed found its way to becoming our shower essentials. The tingle it gives is one that you cannot even compare with the tingle another shampoo can give. As soon as this reaches our head, and more specifically as soon as it touches our scalp, it feels like this is a fresh go. This combination consisting of the tea tree oil, peppermint, and lavender effectively washes off our scalp, making our hair feel fresh.

After using this shampoo, the condition of our oily scalp and hair has improved. It assists in preventing the production of unwanted oils which is very essential in helping hair look and feel silkier. Still, it is advisable to follow it up with a good conditioner especially if your hair is a bit dry, which may be caused by the Tea Tree Special Shampoo.

In conclusion, it is highly advisable to use Tea Tree Special Shampoo when everyone wants to have a deep cleansing and a refreshing shampoo. Due to its uplifting smell and its effectiveness in eliminating the build up of oil on the scalp and hair it is therefore recommended for anyone in search of a new shampoo.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best shampoo for oily hair, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features that you should look for when shopping for a product:

Ingredients

The components of the shampoo are very important since they affect the efficiency of the shampoo. Search for shampoos that have some form of tea tree oil, peppermint and lemon in them. Most of these ingredients assist in controlling the secretion of sebum, and in the removal of the sebum and other buildup from the scalp and hair without compromising the cuticle layer of the hair shafts.

Formulation

The formulation of the shampoo also has to be right. Use shampoos that are produced for the people who have oily hair. It should be light and come with a clarifying option with a formula that is capable of eliminating extra oil and debris from the humans’ scalps.

pH Balance

Another characteristic worth considering is the pH of the shampoo that should be appropriate depending on the hair type. It is preferred that shampoos’ pH falls between 5 and 7. This range assists to restore and preserve the pH level of the scalp that is vital for hair development.

Packaging

This indicates that type of packaging of the shampoo also determines its level of effectiveness. Focus your attention to those shampoos that are packed in a bottle with a pump top. Such a packaging also allows you to regulate how much of the product you use since it is packaged in an easily measurable unit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top shampoos for managing oily, thin hair?

Those with oily hair and thin hair should look for a shampoo that will remove the excess oil without making the hair look flat. Try to choose hair shampoos that contain natural additives in the form of tea tree oil, lemon, and peppermint which help to decrease the secretion of sebum and give the hair a pleasant smell of freshness. The best shampoos to use to treat oily, thin hair include, OGX tea tree mint shampoo, Paul Mitchell lemon sage thickening shampoo and Aveda rosemary mint purifying shampoo.

Which shampoos are recommended by hairdressers for oily hair?

Some hairdressers would suggest the use of shampoos manufactured for use with oily hair. These shampoos are developed with some ingredients that assist to reduce oil production and make your hair feel clean and fresh. The shampoos preferred to be used for oily hair by hairdressers are Bumble and Bumble Sunday Shampoo, Kérastase Specifique Bain Divalent Shampoo, Redken Scalp Relief Oil Detox Shampoo and so on.

How can I treat an oily scalp and dandruff effectively?

Oily skin generally results in dandruff, and this is something that is rather annoying to have. When trying to address an oily scalp and dandruff, it is necessary to use a shampoo that regulates sebum secretion while easing inflammation on the head. It would be beneficial to select the shampoos that have elements like salicylic acid, tea tree oil, and zinc pyrithione that assist in the elimination of dead skin cells and inflammation of the scalp. Some of the shampoos that are instrumental in the treatment of an oily scalp as well as dandruff include Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo, Head and Shoulders Clinical Strength Shampoo, and Nizoral A-D Anti-Dandruff Shampoo.

What are the best solutions for an oily scalp with dry ends?

If you have an oily scalp but your hair ends are rather dry, you’ll need a product that would conquer sebum production and at the same time soothe the hair strands. Search for conditioners that have natural oils such as the argon and coconut oils that will help to moisturize your hair without leaving them heavy. Here, some of the best shampoos suitable to address oily scalp and dry strands include; Moroccanoil Clarifying Shampoo, L’Oreal Paris Elvive Extraordinary Clay Rebalancing Shampoo, and Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal and Coconut Oil Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo.

Are there any effective drugstore shampoos for oily hair?

Yes, there are many good shampoos in the drugstore that are made for oily hair. Most of them are pocket friendly and can be bought in most of the drug stores. Dandruff shampoos containing tea tree oil, lemon, and peppermint are perfect, as they can bring about the much needed balance in the production of sebum. Despite this, the following are some of the most recommended shampoos for oily hair ones that are readily available in drugstores: Herbal Essences Tea-Lightfully Clean Refreshing Shampoo, Pantene Pro-V Blends Micellar Shampoo, and Suave Professionals Rosemary + Mint Invigorating Clean Shampoo.

What options are available for men with oily hair?

For men with oily hair, they should use shampoos that have been formulated for use in treating oily hair. The use of shampoos that come with ingredients such as tea tree oil, lemon, and peppermint should be used since they will assist in the process of reducing the oiliness of the hair and make it feel fresh. The best shampoos for men with an oily scalp are; American Crew Daily Shampoo, Jack Black True Volume Thickening Shampoo and Redken Brews Extra Clean Shampoo.

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