Greasy Hair!

Greasy hair is frustrating, especially if you know your hair is clean! Greasy/oily hair looks dirty and dingy, and it’s usually more evident in blonde and lighter hair colors than darker hair colors. But does the greaseball look only affect those of us who didn’t take that post-workout shower? Hardly. 

While having unclean hair can definitely cause it, greasy hair is typically the result of excess secretion of sebum by the sebaceous glands of the scalp. While some secretion is normal and should happen for a healthy scalp and hair, too much secretion creates that oily look and can even cause an itchy scalp, dandruff and scalp acne, which is a skin disorder known as seborrheic dermatitis. In addition, oily hair can cause thinning and disrupt its natural luster and shine. (1)

So exactly how to get rid of greasy hair? Let’s look at some brilliant natural remedies you can start using soon.

7 Natural Remedies to Get Rid of Oily Hair

1. Eat a Balanced Diet of Healthy Fats and Carbs

Studies suggests that the foods we consume can affect our sebaceous glands and how much is excreted. More dietary fat or carbohydrates can actually increase the production of sebum from the sebaceous glands. On the other side, caloric restriction has been shown to dramatically decrease the sebum secretion rate — and it’s the sebum component that can greatly affect acne. (2)

So, is it as simple as eating less fat and restricting calories from carbs? Probably not, but choosing the right fats (healthy fats like ghee and coconut oil) and carbs is likely to help create a more positive balance in the oil-producing sebaceous glands. Studies have shown that increasing the intake of omega-3 fatty acids through a diet rich in fish and seafood results in a lower rates of acne. Since the Western diet typically has way more omega-6s than omega-3 fatty acids, balancing that for a healthier 2:1 ratio (omega 6 to omega 3) can help.

2. Shampoo More Frequently

Usually, I encourage less washing for a healthier approach to hair, but if you have oily hair, you probably need to wash a bit more. When you shampoo, it collects the oils and dirt and gives you the opportunity to rinse it out of your hair. Washing daily or every other day may do the trick. (3)

Also, using the right shampoo, such as my shampoo for oily hair recipe, can make a big difference. If dandruff has come into the picture, check out my DIY anti-dandruff shampoo that may help.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar

Fungus is naturally found on the scalp and is called malassezia. But even though it’s a naturally occurring fungus, when it grows out of control, it can cause your scalp to get oily and irritated. This can can cause dandruff, too.

Fortunately, apple cider vinegarhas the ability to kill fungus and bacteria, it makes a great home remedy for oily hair. One of the most popular natural remedies out there, you don’t need much ACV, as too much can be harsh on the scalp and hair.

Simply dilute two to three tablespoons in a cup of water, and then put it on your hair. A spray bottle may make it easier, just make sure you get it into the roots and scalp. Rinse after two to three minutes. Apply two or three times a week. Dr. Axe

Side note: If you are vegan and alkaline living: replace eggs with avocado and flaxseed below. Use lime water instead of apple cider vinegar. Chia seed, hemp seeds and walnuts are great for Omega-3 Fatty Acid. Enjoy!