Best Shampoo For Greasy Hair That Actually Works

Greasy hair. A haircare dilemma many of us have faced; lank roots just hours after washing, a slick-feeling scalp by mid-afternoon, and lengths that refuse to lift or hold volume. It’s one of the most common haircare gripes and can make even freshly washed hair look less than fresh.

But here's the good news: the best shampoo for greasy hair can make all of that avoidable. With the right ingredients and a smart routine, you can bring your scalp back into balance, add some much-needed lift at the roots and keep that just-washed feeling going for longer. In this guide, we’re sharing the shampoos, conditioners, and quick fixes that actually work, especially for fine, oily-prone hair types.

Why Does Hair Get Greasy So Fast?

Your scalp naturally produces sebum, an oil that keeps hair and skin hydrated and protected. But sometimes that oil production goes into overdrive. Greasy hair is often the result of too much oil sitting on the scalp, from natural causes (hello hormones), product build-up that traps grease at the root, or even simply running your hands through your hair a few too many times.

Interestingly, overwashing can actually make things worse. Stripping the scalp of its natural oils with harsh shampoos may cause it to respond by producing more oil to compensate. Add to that styling products, pollution, sweat and silicone-heavy formulas, and your scalp can end up congested and overworked – leading to faster grease and flatter hair.

What to Look for in the Best Shampoo for Greasy Hair

The best shampoo for greasy hair helps lift away excess oil and dirt without disrupting the scalp's natural balance. Look out for ingredients like:

• Clay – absorbs oil and detoxifies
• Charcoal – deeply cleanses and purifies
• Salicylic acid – gently exfoliates scalp build-up
• Tea tree oil – antibacterial and cooling
• Citrus extracts – refreshing and clarifying

It’s worth avoiding rich moisturising agents, heavy silicones or creamy formulations that can cling to the scalp and weigh down finer hair. If your ends are dry, focus hydrating treatments there, but keep things light and fresh near the roots. Clarifying shampoos are great for a weekly reset, while balancing shampoos can be used more regularly without over-drying.

Best Shampoo for Greasy Hair: Our Top Picks

If you’re ready to hit refresh, these shampoos are ideal for tackling greasy roots and giving your hair that clean, weightless feel with no dull residue or limp strands in sight.

Best Shampoo and Conditioner for Greasy Hair

Yes, you can use conditioner with greasy hair – it just has to be the right kind. These shampoo and conditioner sets balance the need for a cleaner-feeling scalp with the benefits of soft, conditioned ends.

Best Shampoo for Fine Greasy Hair

Fine hair gets greasy faster and shows it more visibly. These options are formulated to cleanse without collapsing volume, making them ideal for finer, oil-prone hair types.

Tips to Keep Greasy Hair Fresher for Longer

• Don’t overwash. Shampooing daily can make the scalp oilier so try washing every other day and alternate with dry shampoo or a scalp scrub.
• Use lukewarm water. Hot water can overstimulate oil production; warm water keeps the balance in check.
• Skip heavy styling near the roots. Stick to lightweight products, and only apply oils or creams to the ends.
• Clarify weekly. A clarifying shampoo once a week can help remove stubborn build-up without overdoing it.

FAQs About Managing Greasy Hair

Q: Can shampoo make your hair more oily?
A: Yes. Harsh shampoos that strip the scalp can trigger a response where your skin produces more oil to compensate.

Q: How often should I wash greasy hair?
A: Most people with oily hair benefit from washing every 1–2 days, depending on activity levels and product use.

Q: Should I use conditioner if I have oily roots?
A: Absolutely – just avoid applying it near the roots. Focus on the mid-lengths and ends to nourish without adding weight.

Q: Is dry shampoo bad for greasy hair?
A: Not inherently, but overuse can lead to build-up. Use it between washes, and make sure to reset with a proper shampoo regularly.

For more of our best haircare tips and tricks, check out our guide on The Best Hair Mask For Dry, Damaged And Bleached Hair.