Are you tired of battling greasy hair that just won’t behave?
Finding the best shampoo for greasy hair in 2024 can make all the difference.
This article reviews and tests the top 16 shampoos for oily hair to help you achieve that fresh, clean feeling daily. Say goodbye to oily strands and hello to hair that feels light and refreshed!
Table of content
What causes greasy hair?
Greasy hair is caused by the overproduction of sebum, a natural oil the scalp produces. This excess oil can make your hair look oily and feel heavy, often leading to a less-than-fresh appearance.
Several factors can contribute to this overproduction. Hormonal changes, such as those during puberty or pregnancy, can cause your scalp to produce more oil.
Additionally, using the wrong hair products, like shampoos and conditioners that are too heavy, can weigh down your hair and make it appear greasier. Even washing your hair too frequently can backfire, stripping away natural oils and causing your scalp to produce even more to compensate.
Finding the right balance and using the best shampoo for greasy hair can help manage this issue, giving you hair that feels clean and looks great.
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16 Best shampoos for greasy hair
Here’s a list of the best shampoos for oily hair to help you tackle oily hair, each with its unique strengths:
- Best overall: Scandinavian Biolabs Hair Strength Shampoo
- Best biotin: OGX Thick & Full Biotin & Collagen Shampoo
- Best for curly hair: DevaCurl Low-Poo Delight
- Best budget-friendly: Suave Essentials Daily Clarifying Shampoo
- Best sulphate-free: Pureology Clean Volume Shampoo
- Best for sensitive scalp: Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo
- Best for volume: Bumble and Bumble Sunday Shampoo
- Best natural: Maple Holistics Degrease Shampoo
- Best for colour-treated hair: L'Oréal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Scalp Care + Detox Shampoo
- Best detox: ACURE Curiously Clarifying Shampoo
- Best dry shampoo: Batiste Dry Shampoo
- Best for men: American Crew Anti-Dandruff + Dry Scalp Shampoo
- Best salon-quality: Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two
- Best clarifying: Redken Clean Maniac Micellar Clean-Touch Shampoo
- Best for everyday use: Pantene Pro-V Daily Moisture Renewal Shampoo
- Best luxury: Kérastase Specifique Bain Divalent Balancing Shampoo
1. Scandinavian Biolabs Hair Strength Shampoo
Why we like it: The Scandinavian Biolabs Hair Strength Shampoo, also known as Bio Pilixin Shampoo, is designed with ingredients inspired by nature to provide a high-quality, gentle cleansing experience.
Crafted by experts, this shampoo helps reduce excessive sebum, encouraging a balanced scalp. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone struggling with greasy hair, as it cleanses and strengthens hair, making it feel fresh and vibrant.
It’s worth noting: The shampoo has a pleasant eucalyptus aroma, adding a refreshing touch to your hair-washing routine. Additionally, it’s dermatologically tested and made in Denmark, ensuring it meets high quality and safety standards.
Product details:
- Size: 8.45 oz
- Active ingredients: Biotin, Natural Plant Extracts
2. OGX Thick & Full Biotin & Collagen Shampoo
Why we like it: The OGX Biotin & Collagen Shampoo is ideal for those looking to add volume and thickness to their hair. Biotin and collagen work together to nourish hair and an oily scalp and keep it strong while controlling oil production. It’s great if you have greasy hair and want to boost its overall health.
It’s worth noting: This shampoo is quite rich, so a little goes a long way.
Product details:
- Size: 13 oz
- Active ingredients: Biotin, Collagen, Wheat Protein
3. DevaCurl Low-Poo Delight
Why we like it: DevaCurl Low-Poo Delight is a fantastic option for those with curly hair type. Its mild lather gently cleanses the scalp without stripping away natural oils, which is crucial for maintaining healthy curls. The lightweight formula keeps hair bouncy and fresh, effectively controlling grease.
It’s worth noting: This shampoo is sulphate-free, which is excellent for curls but might take some getting used to if you’re accustomed to traditional shampoos.
Product details:
- Size: 12 oz
- Active ingredients: Lotus Flower Extract, Chia-Flaxseed Extract
4. Suave Essentials Daily Clarifying Shampoo
Why we like it: Suave Essentials Daily Clarifying Shampoo is a budget-friendly hero for greasy hair. It deeply cleanses the scalp, removing excess oil and buildup and leaving hair squeaky clean. It’s perfect for those on a budget looking for effective oil control.
It’s worth noting: This shampoo can be a bit drying if used too frequently, so it’s best to use it a few times a week.
Product details:
- Size: 22.5 oz
- Active ingredients: Water, Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate, Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
5. Pureology Clean Volume Shampoo
Why we like it: Pureology Clean Volume Shampoo is a sulphate-free option for colour-treated hair. It gently cleanses while adding volume and lift, making your damaged hair look fuller and fresher. The formula also includes aloe water and soy protein for added nourishment.
It’s worth noting: The price is higher, but the results are worth it.
Product details:
- Size: 8.5 oz
- Active ingredients: Aloe Water, Soy Protein
6. Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo
Why we like it: Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo is perfect for sensitive scalps. Its coal tar formula helps control scalp conditions that can contribute to greasiness, such as dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. It’s a gentle yet effective solution for maintaining a healthy scalp.
It’s worth noting: The smell can be a bit strong, but it dissipates quickly.
Product details:
- Size: 4.4 oz
- Active ingredients: Coal Tar Extract
7. Bumble and Bumble Sunday Shampoo
Why we like it: Bumble and Bumble Sunday Shampoo is a fantastic volumizing shampoo that lifts away oil and product buildup. It’s great for a weekly deep cleanse, leaving your hair refreshed and full of life.
It’s worth noting: This is a once-a-week treatment, not for daily use.
Product details:
- Size: 8 oz
- Active ingredients: Ginseng Root Extract, Rosemary Leaf Extract
8. Maple Holistics Degrease Shampoo
Why we like it: Maple Holistics Degrease Shampoo is a natural option for those wanting to avoid harsh chemicals. It uses ingredients like lemon and basil to cleanse the scalp deeply and control oil production naturally, making the gentle formula safe for everyday use.
It’s worth noting: The natural ingredients give it a refreshing herbal scent.
Product details:
- Size: 10 oz
- Active ingredients: Lemon Oil, Basil Oil, Rosemary Oil
9. L'Oréal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Scalp Care + Detox Shampoo
Why we like it: L'Oréal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Scalp Care + Detox Shampoo is perfect for colour-treated hair. It detoxifies the scalp, removing impurities and excess oil without stripping colour. The gentle formula keeps your hair vibrant and fresh.
It’s worth noting: This shampoo is ideal for maintaining your hair colour while managing oil.
Product details:
- Size: 8.5 oz
- Active ingredients: Menthol, Neem Leaf Extract
10. ACURE Curiously Clarifying Shampoo
Why we like it: ACURE Curiously Clarifying Shampoo is a great detox shampoo that cleanses your scalp thoroughly. It’s packed with organic ingredients like lemongrass and argan oil to keep your fine hair clean and hydrated.
It’s worth noting: The organic formula is gentle on the scalp and hair, making it suitable for regular use.
Product details:
- Size: 12 oz
- Active ingredients: Lemongrass, Argan Oil
11. Batiste Dry Shampoo
Why we like it: Batiste Dry Shampoo is a lifesaver when you can’t wash your hair. It instantly refreshes greasy hair, giving it a clean and voluminous look. It’s perfect for on-the-go freshness.
It’s worth noting: Dry shampoo should not replace regular washing but is great for in-between washes.
Product details:
- Size: 6.73 oz
- Active ingredients: Rice Starch, Fragrance
12. American Crew Anti-Dandruff + Dry Scalp Shampoo
Why we like it: American Crew Anti-Dandruff + Dry Scalp Shampoo is formulated for men and effectively controls dandruff and greasiness. It keeps the scalp healthy and hair clean, making it a great everyday shampoo.
It’s worth noting: This shampoo works best when used consistently for optimal results.
Product details:
- Size: 8.45 oz
- Active ingredients: Zinc Pyrithione, Tea Tree Oil
13. Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two
Why we like it: Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two is a salon-quality shampoo that deeply cleanses and removes buildup. It’s great for those with oily hair, leaving it light and fresh.
It’s worth noting: This shampoo can be drying if used daily, so it’s best for occasional deep cleansing.
Product details:
- Size: 10.14 oz
- Active ingredients: Wheat Germ Oil, Chamomile Extract
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14. Redken Clean Maniac Micellar Clean-Touch Shampoo
Why we like it: Redken Clean Maniac Micellar Clean-Touch Shampoo is a clarifying shampoo that uses micellar technology to gently remove impurities. It’s perfect for a thorough clean without stripping natural oils.
It’s worth noting: This shampoo is ideal for use once or twice weekly to keep hair clean and fresh.
Product details:
- Size: 10.1 oz
- Active ingredients: Micellar Water, Neofresh Technology
15. Pantene Pro-V Daily Moisture Renewal Shampoo
Why we like it: Pantene Pro-V Daily Moisture Renewal Shampoo is perfect for everyday use. It balances moisture and cleanses the scalp, making it great for those with greasy hair.
It’s worth noting: This shampoo offers a great balance of cleaning and hydration, and it is suitable for daily use.
Product details:
- Size: 12 oz
- Active ingredients: Pro-vitamin B5, Antioxidants
16. Kérastase Specifique Bain Divalent Balancing Shampoo
Why we like it: Kérastase Specifique Bain Divalent Balancing Shampoo is a luxurious option for those with greasy roots and dry ends. This shampoo gently cleanses the scalp to remove excess oil while nourishing the length of your hair, preventing dryness. Its balancing formula helps maintain a healthy scalp environment, ensuring your hair feels clean and hydrated.
It’s worth noting: This shampoo offers a premium experience with its high-quality ingredients and sophisticated scent. It's perfect for those looking for a bit of luxury in their hair care routine.
Product details:
- Size: 8.5 oz
- Active ingredients: Glycine, Vitamin B6
What ingredients should I look for in a shampoo for greasy hair?
Certain ingredients can make a big difference in keeping greasy hair fresh and clean when choosing a shampoo.
Here are some key ingredients to look for:
- Salicylic acid: Helps exfoliate the scalp and remove excess oil and buildup.
- Tea tree oil: Known for its natural antibacterial and antifungal properties, it helps maintain a healthy scalp.
- Charcoal: Absorbs impurities and oil, leaving your scalp feeling clean and refreshed.
- Biotin: Strengthens hair and can help balance oil production.
- Lemon extract: A natural astringent that helps reduce oiliness and leaves hair feeling fresh.
- Peppermint oil: Provides a cooling sensation and helps cleanse the scalp thoroughly.
- Clay: Absorbs excess oil and helps keep your hair looking clean and non-greasy.
- Aloe vera: Soothes the scalp while helping to control oil production.
- Witch hazel: A natural astringent that helps to reduce scalp oiliness.
- Green tea extract: Rich in antioxidants, it helps balance oil production and soothe the scalp.
What ingredients should I avoid in a shampoo for greasy hair?
When choosing a shampoo for greasy hair, it is important to avoid certain ingredients that can exacerbate oiliness or weigh your hair down.
Here are some ingredients to avoid:
- Silicones: Can build up on the scalp and hair, making it appear greasy and heavy.
- Heavy oils: Ingredients like coconut or argan can weigh down your hair and make it look oilier.
- Sulphates: While they cleanse effectively, they can strip the scalp of natural oils, causing it to overproduce oil.
- Conditioning agents: Ingredients like dimethicone and quaternium can leave a residue contributing to greasy buildup.
- Alcohols: Some alcohols, like isopropyl alcohol, can dry out the scalp, leading to increased oil production as a compensatory response.
- Parabens: Preservatives that irritate the scalp and potentially disrupt the natural oil balance.
- Waxes: Ingredients like beeswax or lanolin can coat the hair, making it feel greasy and heavy.
Are sulphates good for oily hair?
Sulfates effectively remove oil and buildup from the scalp, making them beneficial for oily hair. However, they can be too harsh for some people, stripping away natural oils and potentially leading to increased oil production as the scalp tries to compensate.
Finding a sulphate shampoo that balances effective cleansing with gentleness is important.
Should you wash oily hair more often?
Washing oily hair more frequently can help manage excess oil, but it's essential not to overdo it.
Washing too often can strip the scalp of natural oils, causing it to produce even more oil. Aim for a balanced routine, washing every other day or as needed to keep your hair clean without over-drying the scalp.
Conclusion
Finding the right shampoo for greasy hair involves looking for ingredients that control oil and avoid exacerbating it. Our top picks for 2024 include various options to suit different needs, from sulphate-free to biotin-rich formulas.
Manage your oily hair effectively with these expert-recommended shampoos.
Try Scandinavian Biolabs Hair Strength Shampoo for a fresh, balanced scalp today!
FAQs
How often should I wash my greasy hair?
It's generally recommended that greasy hair be washed every other day to control oil without stripping the scalp of its natural oils.
Can using conditioner make my hair greasier?
Using a lightweight, oil-free conditioner on the ends of your hair can prevent greasiness. Avoid applying conditioner directly to the scalp.
Are natural shampoos effective for greasy hair?
Yes, natural shampoos with ingredients like tea tree oil, charcoal, and aloe vera can effectively manage greasy hair by gently balancing oil production.
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