Hair Care for an Oily Scalp: A Simple Routine That Still Nourishes
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If your hair looks fresh in the morning and flat by evening, you probably have an oily scalp. It is very common, especially in hot and humid weather. Many people with an oily scalp avoid hair oil completely, but the lengths and ends often still need care. The answer is a routine that keeps the scalp fresh and the rest of your hair nourished.
Why the scalp gets oily
The scalp naturally makes oil to protect skin and hair. How much it makes varies from person to person. Heat, humidity, sweat, touching your hair often and washing with very hot water can all make it feel oilier.
Washing
- Wash as often as your scalp needs. Many people with an oily scalp wash every day or every other day. That is fine.
- Focus shampoo on the scalp, massaging gently with your fingertips, not your nails.
- Let the suds run through the lengths as you rinse instead of scrubbing them.
- Use lukewarm water, not very hot.
- Rinse well. Leftover shampoo or conditioner can make hair look heavy.
Should you oil an oily scalp?
You can, with a lighter hand. A few changes make oiling work for an oily scalp:
- Use a small amount, just a few drops on the fingertips for the scalp.
- Oil before washing, not overnight, so it does not sit for long.
- Put more oil on the lengths and ends than on the scalp.
- Wash it out thoroughly.
The Hair Revival Oil is a 100ml oil with bhringraj, amla, onion seed and black seed oil. It has a lightweight, fast-absorbing formula, is made for all hair types and genders, and is free of parabens and sulfates.
Masks on the lengths
The Root Revival Hair Mask combines amla, bhringraj and black sesame oil. Apply it to damp hair, massage for 2 to 3 minutes, leave for 15 to 20 minutes and rinse. With an oily scalp, many people focus it on the mid-lengths and ends. Use it 2 to 3 times a week.
A sample week
| Day | Step |
|---|---|
| Monday | Light oil 1 hour before washing, then wash |
| Tuesday | Wash if needed |
| Wednesday | Wash and mask on lengths |
| Friday | Wash |
| Saturday | Light oil, wash and mask |
Everyday habits
- Touch your hair less. Hands carry oil from your face.
- Wash combs, brushes and pillowcases regularly.
- Tie hair loosely after the gym and wash when you can.
- Drink water and eat a balanced diet.
Common mistakes
- Scrubbing the scalp hard with nails.
- Using a lot of oil and leaving it overnight.
- Putting conditioner on the scalp. Keep it on the lengths.
- Skipping care for the ends because the roots are oily.
If your scalp is red, sore, very itchy or flaky, or you notice unusual hair loss, see a doctor or dermatologist. More tips: hair mask vs hair oil.
Quick questions
Is washing every day bad for hair? Not if you wash gently and your scalp needs it.
Can I use a hair mask with an oily scalp? Yes. Focus it on the lengths and rinse well.
Not sure which products suit your skin? The Theraglam Glow Scan builds a personal skincare routine from 3 photos and a short quiz. Rs 599, one time.
Patch-test any new hair product on a small area of skin for 24 hours first. Stop using it if you notice irritation. This article is general hair care guidance, not medical advice.
Related reading: Finding your ideal schedule? See How Often Should You Wash Your Hair? A Simple Guide by Hair and Scalp Type.