Why Is My Hair So Greasy All of a Sudden?
Probably nothing. Puberty makes your scalp produce more oil. Washing more often, shampooing the scalp, not the ends, and using lighter products all help.
I wash my hair and by the next day it looks greasy again. It didn't used to be like this. What am I doing wrong?
You wash your hair at night, and by second period it already looks flat and shiny at the roots. A year ago you could skip a day. Now you can’t. What happened?
Short answer: puberty. You’re probably not doing anything wrong.
Why hair gets greasy in your teens
According to KidsHealth, each hair has its own oil gland that keeps it shiny and waterproof. During puberty, those glands make extra oil, thanks to the same hormones that cause acne. The result: hair that looks greasy much faster than it used to.
What helps
Wash more often
KidsHealth says washing every day or every other day can help control oily hair. The American Academy of Dermatology agrees that if you have straight hair and an oily scalp, you may want to shampoo every day. If your hair is curly, coily or thick, see how often you should wash your hair, because the rules are different.
Shampoo your scalp, not your ends
The oil comes from your scalp, so that’s where shampoo goes. The AAD says to apply shampoo to your scalp instead of the entire length of your hair. Use warm water and a small amount, and don’t scrub hard. KidsHealth notes that scrubbing doesn’t remove oil any better and can irritate your scalp.
Conditioner on the ends only
If your hair is fine or straight, the AAD says to apply conditioner to the ends. Putting it on your roots weighs them down.
Check your styling products
KidsHealth points out that some gels and lotions add extra grease. Look for ones labeled “oil-free” or “greaseless.”
Hands off
Touching and running your fingers through your hair all day moves oil around. Same with pushing it back with your hands while you study.
What doesn’t help
- Harsh scrubbing or very hot water. It irritates your scalp without removing more oil.
Oily hair and oily skin often go together. If you’re also breaking out along your hairline or forehead, our guide to clear skin habits covers hair products and acne too.
