How to get rid of oily hair

There's nothing quite like the feeling of hair when it's freshly washed. But it can be especially frustrating to find those clean locks turning oily faster than you can keep up with. If you find yourself resorting to ponytails, excessive product and hats to hide oily hair, don't fear: we've got some handy tips on how to reduce oiliness.

1. Bye-Bye, Brush

When you're aiming to detangle tresses or tease out a bun, bristle brushes tend to distribute product and oil down the length of the hair shaft, exacerbating oily-looking locks. Opt for a wide-toothed comb instead – the spacing between the comb's teeth will mean it'll distribute less oil, helping to reduce the appearance of greasy hair.

2. Detox Your Locks

It may well be tempting to load up on wax, mousse and creams to give oily strands some lift and shape. However, too much too often can leave your hair feeling flat. The solution? A hair detox. Using a deep cleansing system, like TRESemmé Cleanse and Replenish Deep Cleansing Shampoo and Conditioner, helps remove build up and residue, restoring your hair's natural vitality.

3. Choose 'Non-Sticky' Formulas

Like oily skin, oily hair won't be improved by adding excess moisture. The problem with greasy locks isn't dehydration, so steer clear of shine-inducing or super-moisturising products. Instead, look out for lightweight products and styling solutions that promise a non-sticky finish—these can help manage your hair without overloading on residue.

4. The Emergency Fix

Picture the scene: it's date night and you'll be at work until late, which means no chance to wash away the day's greasy locks before you head out – nightmare! Don't panic: there's a perfect quick fix for when time is short. Dry shampoos, like TRESemmé Cleansing Instant Refresh Dry Shampoo, absorb excess oil from hair and help eliminate odor, leaving locks looking refreshed and revitalized. Use it in between washes, or in emergencies when your hair needs a quick freshen up: it's our favorite fail-safe for how to get rid of greasy hair.

5. Wake Up and Wash  

Your body is working even when you're not—whilst you sleep, the oil-producing glands in your scalp are hard at work making sebum (your hair's natural oils). And yep, you guessed it: this is the stuff that coats your hair and makes it look oily.

If your scalp over-produces sebum, sometimes you might find your hair looking oily even when you've just got out of bed. It might sound obvious, but the best way to battle morning oil is to wash your hair in the morning instead of at night. It'll help remove residue and oils that have built-up overnight and leave your hair feeling fresher for longer.

So don't let oiliness weigh down your look. Now you know how to get rid of oily hair, you can get your locks back in balance and feeling fresh.