Oily scalp and greasy roots: what to try
A 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 roots usually helps — and greasy scale with redness is worth checking.
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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.
Is an oily scalp a problem?
Your scalp naturally produces sebum, an oil that coats and protects skin and hair. How oily your scalp and roots look depends on how much oil you produce, your hair texture, the products you use and how often you wash.
There's no NHS, British Association of Dermatologists or NICE guidance on oily scalp as a condition — for most people it's a cosmetic issue. So this guide sticks to sensible, low-risk steps and is clear about where evidence is thin.
What to try
- Wash as often as you need to. There's no rule that says you must wash less. The British Association of Dermatologists' advice on Afro-textured hair puts it simply: wash when there's excess product build-up or unwanted oiliness. (And if you're worried about thinning: NICE guidance on female pattern hair loss says hair can be shampooed as often as you like without making hair loss worse.)
- Shampoo the scalp, condition the ends. Massage shampoo into the scalp where the oil is, and keep conditioner on the mid-lengths and ends.
- Rinse thoroughly so product doesn't sit on the scalp.
- Go easy on heavy products — oils, butters and rich leave-ins near the roots will add to the greasy look.
- Clean brushes and combs regularly so you're not putting oil back.
- Dry shampoo can absorb oil between washes, but it doesn't clean the scalp; wash it out properly.
Claims that particular shampoos "rebalance" or "regulate" oil production are mostly marketing — we haven't found good evidence that a shampoo changes how much oil your scalp makes. Choose one that leaves your scalp feeling clean and comfortable.
When greasy means something else
Seborrhoeic dermatitis affects oily areas of skin and can cause greasy, yellowish scale with redness and itching on the scalp, eyebrows and sides of the nose. If that sounds familiar, an antifungal shampoo may help — see our seborrhoeic dermatitis guide.