Oily scalp

There's no NHS or dermatology guidance on oily scalp as a condition — for most people it's cosmetic. Washing as often as you need, shampooing the scalp rather than the lengths and keeping conditioner and heavy products away from the roots are sensible first steps. Greasy, yellowish scale with redness or itch may be seborrhoeic dermatitis, which an antifungal shampoo can help.

Common signs

• Roots that look flat or shiny within a day or two of washing
• Hair that clumps together at the scalp
• (If there's also red, itchy, scaly skin, see seborrhoeic dermatitis)

What usually helps

• Wash as often as you need to — the British Association of Dermatologists suggests washing when there's build-up or unwanted oiliness.
• Keep conditioner on the mid-lengths and ends, away from the roots.
• Go easy on oils, butters and heavy leave-ins near the scalp, and clean brushes regularly.

Washing: Wash as often as your scalp needs — daily is fine if that's what keeps it comfortable.

Build your routine with this concern →

Read the full guides

• Oily scalp and greasy roots: what to tryA greasy scalp is usually a cosmetic nuisance rather than a medical problem. Washing as often as you need, choosing the right shampoo and keeping conditioner off the roo…
• How often should you wash your hair?There's no single right answer. Dermatologists say wash according to how oily your scalp gets and your hair type — from daily for an oily scalp to every week or two for…
• Product build-up: clarifying your hair and scalpHeavy styling products, oils, silicones, dry shampoo and hard water can leave a film on the hair and scalp. Signs to look for, how to clarify without stripping, and why…

Ingredients worth knowing

• Sulfates (SLS and SLES) Evidence: CosmeticThe main cleansing and foaming detergents in most shampoos
• Silicones Evidence: CosmeticSmoothing, detangling and shine in conditioners, serums and heat protectants
• Oils (coconut, argan, olive, mineral) Evidence: CosmeticPre-wash treatments, shine and softness — and descaling in some medicines

Not medical advice. This guide is general information from the sources listed, not a diagnosis or a substitute for a pharmacist, GP or dermatologist. If you are worried, or symptoms are severe or not improving, get advice. Read our health information policy.

Sources

1. British Association of Dermatologists – Caring for Afro-textured hair bad.org.uk
2. British Association of Dermatologists – Seborrhoeic dermatitis bad.org.uk