Oily hair can be frustrating. Greasy roots, flat hair, and limp locks are just some of the problems caused by overactive sebaceous glands in the scalp. Finding the right shampoo is crucial for keeping oily hair under control.
In this article, we’ve tested and reviewed the 15 best shampoos for oily hair available in 2023. We looked at factors like effectiveness at removing excess oil, gentleness on hair and scalp, and whether the shampoo leaves hair looking clean and fresh.
These are the top shampoos for oily hair and scalps this year. Keep reading to find your perfect match!
Why Do You Need a Special Shampoo for Oily Hair?
Before we dive into the list, let’s look at why oily hair needs special shampoos formulated for its needs:
- Cleansing power – Shampoos for oily hair contain surfactants that can cut through and remove the excess oil on the scalp. Gentler shampoos won’t cleanse deeply enough.
- Balancing act – The shampoo must remove excess oil but not strip the hair and scalp entirely of natural oils. Maintaining hair health is aided by this.
- Weightless feeling – Oily hair needs lightweight products that won’t weigh hair down. Thick, creamy shampoos can make hair limper.
- Volumizing effects – Some shampoos help give okay, oily hair more volume and lift at the roots.
- Ingredients target oil – Key ingredients like charcoal, lemon, and witch hazel help absorb oil, cleanse the scalp, and degrease hair.
How We Chose the Best Oily Hair Shampoos
Choosing the right shampoo is crucial for oily hair, so our selections were carefully curated based on extensive research and key criteria.
We evaluated over 50 top-rated shampoos specifically formulated for oily hair and scalp issues. We compiled bestseller lists, expert recommendations, and user reviews to narrow down the top contenders.
We then compared the shampoos on the following important factors:
- Ingredients – We looked for key ingredients like charcoal, salicylic acid, lemon, witch hazel, and tea tree oil that help absorb excess oil, deep cleanse, and purify the scalp.
- Oil Control – The shampoos were ranked on how well they removed grease and oil from the hair and scalp based on user reviews and our evaluations.
- Balancing Act – We favored shampoos that eliminated oil but didn’t over strip the hair and scalp of natural moisture.
- Hair & Scalp Health – Nourishing ingredients, gentleness, and safety for frequent use were important.
- Volumizing Ability – For limp, flat hair, shampoos that added lift and body ranked higher.
- Fragrance – Preference was given to refreshing, invigorating scents.
- Accessibility & Price – We included options across high-end, drugstore, and professional brands at different price points.
After thorough assessment, we narrowed down the choices to the 15 best shampoos that ticked all the boxes for clean, fresh, oil-free hair.
15 Best Shampoos for Oily Hair
Bumble and Bumble Sunday Shampoo
Bumble and Bumble’s Sunday shampoo is a deep cleansing shampoo ideal for oily scalps. The shampoo lathers exceptionally well to dissolve oil and buildup from the hair and scalp.
Key ingredients like mineral clay help soak up excess sebum. Other botanical extracts cleanse gently while adding moisture to prevent the hair and scalp from feeling stripped.
While deeply clarifying, it won’t dry out the hair. Use it weekly or as needed to remove oil slick and freshen up limp hair. It’s safe for color-treated hair as well.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Deeply clarifying | Can be drying if over-used |
| Removes oil slick and buildup | |
| Safe for color-treated hair |
Kiehl’s Purifying Shampoo
Kiehl’s Purifying Shampoo is formulated especially for oily hair and scalp issues. It contains witch hazel extract to control excess oil production on the scalp and lemon peel oil to purify the hair.
The shampoo creates a rich, creamy lather to dissolve impurities like dirt, pollutants, and sebum. With regular use, hair feels cleaner for longer. The formula is also gentle enough for daily use.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Controls excess oil | None notable |
| Purifies hair | |
| Creates rich lather |
Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo
As the name suggests, Neutrogena’s Anti-Residue Shampoo is designed to dissolve any buildup on the hair and scalp. It’s a great clarifying shampoo for oily hair.
The star ingredient is Neutrogena’s Microclean technology, which eliminates up to 90% of heavy residue that can weigh hair down. It cleans deeply to remove oil, styling product buildup, hard water minerals, chlorine, and more.
Use this shampoo once a week to reap the cleansing benefits. It rinses clean without leaving behind any residues of its own. It can be drying, so follow up with a moisturizing conditioner.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Eliminates buildup | Can be drying |
| Deeply cleansing | Needs conditioner after |
| For all hair types |
Maple Holistics Sage Shampoo
Maple Holistics Sage Shampoo regulates excess oil production with the help of sage extracts. Sage is known for its clarifying, cleansing, and antimicrobial properties to keep the scalp healthy.
It also contains botanical keratin to strengthen hair follicles and tea tree oil to combat dandruff caused by oily scalps. The formula is free of sulfates, parabens, silicones, artificial dyes, and fragrances.
This shampoo is safe for daily use on all hair types, including color-treated hair. It leaves hair feeling clean and refreshed while improving scalp health.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Regulates oil | Has a strong herbal scent |
| Strengthens hair | |
| Sulfate-free |
Nécessaire The Shampoo
Nécessaire’s The Shampoo is a great everyday shampoo for oily hair and scalp. It gently cleanses, removing buildup from styling products and pollutants without stripping the hair.
The shampoo contains two key ingredients. PH-balanced surfactants remove oil without disrupting the scalp’s natural barrier. And niacinamide which controls oil production and soothes inflammation.
Lightweight emollients and nutrients keep the hair and scalp healthy. This sulfate-free shampoo is ideal for daily cleansing of oily hair. It reduces oiliness over time for a cleaner, fresher hair day after day.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Gentle daily cleanser | Expensive |
| Balances oil | |
| Safe for all hair |
Kenya Moore Hair Care Balance Shampoo
Designed for oily scalps, the Kenya Moore Balance Shampoo contains tea trees and peppermint to cleanse away excess oil. It also balances the pH to maintain the scalp’s protective barrier.
The formula helps inhibit oil production and clarifies hair from root to end. Regular use makes hair feel cleaner for longer: no more greasy roots or limp locks.
Safe for daily use, it’s free of sulfates and parabens. The unisex shampoo suits all hair textures, including straight, wavy, curly, and coily.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Controls oil | Limited availability |
| Balances pH | |
| Sulfate & paraben-free |
OGX Extra Strength Hydrate & Repair Argan Oil of Morocco Shampoo
While using a hydrating shampoo on oily hair sounds counterintuitive, OGX’s Argan Oil shampoo works well. It’s designed for dry, damaged hair but provides oil control too.
How? It contains sulfate-free surfactants to remove excess and argan oil to inject moisture into dehydrated hair. So you get a deep cleanse without stripping away natural oils or leaving hair dry.
Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, argan oil also nourishes and repairs hair from damage caused by UV rays, heat styling, and chemical treatments.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Hydrates hair | Can weigh fine hair down |
| Sulfate-free | |
| Repairs damage |
Head & Shoulders Royal Oils Shampoo
Along with combating dandruff, Head & Shoulders Royal Oils shampoo also targets greasy hair and scalp. The shampoo contains zinc pyrithione to reduce dandruff and essential oils to nourish the scalp.
Royal oils like argan oil, coconut oil, and avocado oil moisturize the hair and scalp to prevent overproduction of oil. It also has pyrithione and zinc to eliminate fungus and bacteria that can cause dandruff and itching.
Suitable for daily use, this shampoo leaves the hair clean and the scalp refreshed. It’s safe for color-treated hair as well.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Relieves dandruff | Contains sulfates |
| Moisturizes | |
| Safe for color-treated hair |
PURA D’OR Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo
Apple cider vinegar is known as a natural remedy for greasy hair. PURA D’OR harnesses its oil-controlling benefits in its ACV shampoo. It clarifies and cleanses hair, removing oil, toxins, and buildup.
It also balances out the pH so as not to strip the hair while washing off the excess oils. Its biotin, folic acid, vitamins B5 and E, proteins, and antioxidants nourish and strengthen hair.
With its refreshing scent, this shampoo is perfect for pepping up limp, oily hair. It’s safe for daily use on all hair types.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Clarifying | Smell may not appeal to some |
| Oil control | |
| Strengthens hair |
Matrix Biolage Scalptherapie Shampoo
The Matrix Biolage Scalptherapie Shampoo controls oil at the roots for cleaner hair days. It contains salicylic acid derived from wintergreen to exfoliate and purify the scalp gently.
The menthol formula gives a cooling, refreshing sensation to the scalp. Peppermint and ginger root extracts help stimulate microcirculation to keep the scalp healthy. Hair follicles are less likely to get clogged when the scalp is in good shape.
Use this shampoo 2-3 times weekly for reduced oiliness, dandruff relief, and improved scalp health.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Cools & refreshes scalp | Needs multiple washes for oil control |
| Unclogs hair follicles |
Redken Scalp Relief Oil Detox Shampoo
Redken’s Scalp Relief Oil Detox Shampoo is a deep cleansing shampoo ideal for frequent use on oily scalps. It removes impurities and buildup without drying the hair or stripping natural oils.
The key ingredients like Pyrithione Zinc and Zeolite relieve oiliness and itchiness. Tomato extract, vitamin E, and sesame oil nourish the scalp to maintain a healthy barrier.
Frequent use of this shampoo regulates oil production, reduces dandruff flakes, soothes irritation, and cleans the hair thoroughly without harsh sulfates. It leaves just enough moisture for healthy hair.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Deep cleanser | None notable |
| Balances scalp health | |
| Sulfate-free |
Dove Dermacare Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
While formulated for dandruff, Dove Dermacare Scalp Shampoo also works for greasy, oily scalps. It contains pyrithione zinc to reduce fungal growth and salicylic acid to prevent dead skin cell buildup.
Together, these ingredients keep the scalp flake-free and discourage oily secretions. It also has moisturizers like glycerin to prevent the scalp from drying out.
Use it 2–3 times a week for fewer oil-slick days and relief from dandruff and other scalp problems. This shampoo is dermatologist-tested and suitable for daily use.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fights dandruff | Contains sulfates |
| Moisturizes scalp | |
| Daily use |
Yes To Tea Tree & Sage Oil Shampoo
This shampoo by Yes To harnesses the clarifying benefits of tea tree and sage oil. Both these essential oils are known for their antimicrobial properties.
In the shampoo, they help eliminate bacteria on the scalp that can cause excess sebum production and dandruff. With regular use, the hair and scalp feel cleaner and less greasy.
Free of parabens and sulfates, this shampoo is suitable for regular use. It’s vegan, cruelty-free, and safe for color-treated hair as well. The tingly herbal scent freshens up the senses too!
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Clarifies hair | May cause dryness if over-used |
| Controls oil | |
| Cruelty-free |
Healthy Hair Plus AntiBacterial Shampoo
The Healthy Hair Plus Antibacterial Shampoo controls oil and eliminates dandruff with the help of potent antibacterial ingredients. Essential oils like lemon, eucalyptus, and oregano attack bacteria on the scalp that, lead to excess oiliness and flaking.
It also contains salicylic acid to exfoliate gently, lifting away dead skin cells and debris from the scalp. Vitamin E nourishes the scalp without leaving any greasy residue behind.
Suitable for all hair types, this clarifying shampoo helps reduce oil production over time. Use it every alternate day for clean, healthy hair.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Reduces oil & dandruff | Strong medicinal scent |
| Sulfate-free |
Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo
Lastly, we have the Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo. This dermatologist-recommended shampoo reduces oiliness and treats dandruff in one easy step.
It contains 3% salicylic acid to shed excess skin cells and unclog hair follicles. The critical ingredient, T-sal, works to reduce scaling.
Together, these ingredients clear debris, lift away grease, and treat the root causes of dandruff and oil production. It leaves the hair and scalp clean and healthy.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Treats dandruff | Can be drying with daily use |
| Unclogs hair follicles | |
| Dermatologist-recommended |
How Often Should You Use Shampoo for Oily Hair?
It’s tricky to figure out the right shampooing frequency when you have oily hair. Wash your hair too often, and you risk drying it out. Wash too infrequently, and oil takes over.
Here are some tips on how often to shampoo oily hair:
- For moderate oiliness, shampoo every 2-3 days.
- If hair gets very oily, shampoo every alternate day.
- For mild oiliness, shampoo 2-3 times a week.
- Use a clarifying shampoo like those mentioned above 1-2 times a week.
- Limit daily shampooing unless the shampoo is very gentle.
- Dry shampoo can help extend days between washes.
Monitor your scalp and hair to see what works best. Those with excessively oily roots may need to shampoo more often. Use conditioning treatments to prevent over-washing from drying out the hair.
Do’s and Don’ts for Managing Oily Hair
Oily hair needs special care and attention. Here are some do’s and don’ts to manage and care for oily hair:
Do’s
- Do use a shampoo formulated for oily scalps.
- Do use dry shampoo to absorb oil between washes.
- Do use an anti-residue shampoo weekly to remove buildup.
- Do use a scalp massager to improve blood circulation.
- Do use hair masks and treatments to nourish hair.
- Do use volumizing products to add lift at the roots.
Don’ts
- Refrain from over-washing your hair too frequently with regular shampoo.
- Don’t use oil-based styling products like pomades or serums.
- Don’t apply conditioner to the scalp, which can clog pores.
- Don’t use hot tools excessively, which can stimulate oil production.
- Make sure to complete the conditioner, as oily hair still needs moisture.
Paying attention to these tips will help you care for your oily tresses and keep them fresh.
The Bottom Line
Oily hair and scalp can be exasperating, but the right shampoo makes a significant difference. Look for shampoos that cleanse hair without stripping it dry or disrupting the scalp’s barrier.
We hope our picks of the 15 best shampoos for greasy and oily hair help you find your perfect match. Try out a couple to see which one keeps the oil slick away for clean, fresh hair days ahead.
To sum it up, here are a few key points:
- Choose shampoos with oil-absorbing ingredients like clay and apple cider vinegar
- Use purifying shampoos containing lemon, witch hazel, or tea tree to control excess sebum.
- Look for volumizing or thickening shampoos to lift flat, oily hair
- Clarify weekly with a deep cleansing or anti-residue shampoo
- Balance shampooing frequency to avoid over-washing and drying out hair
- Apply shampoo just to the scalp area, not the lengths, to prevent stripping hair of oils
You can finally have clean, fresh locks minus the grease with the proper hair care routine! Say goodbye to oily hair woes with these expert-recommended shampoos.
Q: Can shampoo help with an oily scalp?
A: Using the right shampoo can help with an oily scalp. Look for shampoos specifically formulated for oily hair or that claim to detoxify the scalp.
Q: What is the Bumble and Bumble Sunday Shampoo?
A: Bumble and Bumble Sunday Shampoo is a highly regarded product for oily hair. It is designed to cleanse your hair and scalp, removing impurities and excess oil.
Q: Is Bumble and Bumble Sunday Shampoo suitable for color-treated hair?
A: Yes, Bumble and Bumble Sunday Shampoo is safe for use on color-treated hair.
Q: Can oily hair be a sign of dandruff?
A: Yes, oily hair can sometimes be accompanied by dandruff. If you are experiencing oily hair and dandruff, a shampoo that targets both issues may be worth trying.
Q: Is there a shampoo specifically formulated for fine hair?
A: Yes, shampoos are available specifically formulated for fine hair. These shampoos are designed to cleanse your hair and leave it looking and feeling voluminous.
Q: What is Nécessaire The Shampoo?
A: Nécessaire The Shampoo is a popular shampoo specially formulated for oily hair. It aims to cleanse your hair and scalp while maintaining the natural balance of oils.
Q: Are there any new shampoos for oily hair in 2023?
A: Yes, there are several new shampoos for oily hair that have been released in 2023. These shampoos have been developed with the latest advancements in hair care technology to provide effective solutions for greasy hair.
Q: Can using shampoo too often lead to greasy hair?
A: Using shampoo too often can strip your hair of its natural oils, resulting in your scalp producing even more oil to compensate. It’s best to find a balance and wash your hair every few days, depending on your hair type.
Q: Should I use a sulfate-free shampoo for oily hair?
A: Using sulfate-free shampoo for oily hair may vary depending on your hair type. Some people find that sulfate-free shampoos are less drying and can help improve the overall condition of their hair. It’s worth trying different options to see what works best for you.