Oily hair is a result of the scalp producing an excess amount of oil to stay moist and protect the hair by creating a barrier between it and the environment. Excessive sebum can lead to discomfort such as lack of volume, dull hair, irritated scalp, and dandruff problems. However, it can be controlled by identifying the causes of excessive oiliness.
One cause of oily hair is the use of elegant hairstyles that require a lot of styling products, as well as brushing and touching the hair frequently. Hot water can wash away sebum and over-dry the scalp, leading to dandruff and excessive oil secretion. Products labeled as ‘intense’ and intended for dry or damaged hair should be avoided, as they can weigh down the hair and make it look oilier.
It is advised to use a deep cleanser several times a month to clean the scalp and to apply natural remedies such as coconut oil to nourish the hair while reducing oiliness. Hair should be brushed and touched less frequently to prevent the spread of oils and bacteria, which can make the hair look even oilier. Additionally, stress can lead to oily scalp and dandruff, so it’s important to find ways to manage stress to help improve the scalp condition.
Washing the hair too frequently can disturb the balance of good bacteria on the scalp and lead to overproduction of oil. It is recommended to gradually reduce the frequency of hair washes and use shampoos that do not over-dry the scalp.
Factors such as where you live and the type of hair you have can also contribute to oiliness. People living in cities may need to wash their hair more often due to environmental residue, and those with straight hair are more prone to oily hair compared to those with textured or wavy hair. Health problems can also cause excessive sebum production, so it’s important to consult a doctor if unusual changes in the hair are noticed.