What causes greasy hair and how can I prevent it?

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Blog | Expert | What causes greasy hair and how can I prevent it?

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Posted: 10/01/21

Ever been told shampooing too often leads to greasy hair? Yep – so have we. Well, it’s not quite as simple as that. Loads of factors play into how greasy your hair gets. It could be anything from your hair type and everyday habits to the type of products you use daily. But fear not, we’ve done our homework on what causes greasy hair (and how to prevent it), so you won’t have to battle this beauty affliction ever again.

What is greasy hair?

Greasy hair is caused by the overproduction of sebum. Sebum, a natural oil, is produced in our skin’s sebaceous glands and is commonly found on the face and scalp. That’s both good and bad news. The good news is sebum exists for a reason, and that’s to keep our skin waterproofed as well as prevent bacteria from entering our bodies. The bad news is that overproduction can make your hair look unkempt, sticky and wet.

What causes greasy hair?

Genetics

If your family has a history of oily hair, chances are you’ll have it too. However, external factors have a much bigger impact on greasy hair, so don’t go blaming your parents!

Hormones

Sebum production increases during puberty, which means oily hair is much more common in teenagers than adults. But it can affect adults too – hormonal disturbances from taking birth control pills, stress and menopause can all lead to a spike in sebum production.

Humidity

Ever noticed that your hair is less greasy in winter? That’s because our bodies react to high levels of humidity in summer by producing more oil.

Playing with your hair or brushing too often

You might be touching your hair more often than you think. Playing with your locks transfers oil from your finger tips to your hair. Brushing too often follows the same logic, so make a conscious effort to cut down on both.

Using the wrong products

Choosing products that are compatible with your hair is a must. If you have greasy hair, look for gentler formulas and avoid products that promise to give you ‘shiny’ and ‘moisturised’ hair.

How to prevent greasy hair

1. Dry shampoo, baby powder and baking soda

Otherwise known as the holy trinity of curing a greasy hair problem. Dry shampoo is great for when you’re in a rush to look good before a night out, or if you’re on the road. Baby powder can be used as an alternative if you’re looking for something with multiple uses. Or, if you’re looking to do some DIY haircare, adding a bit of baking soda to your shampoo can remove all the oil that leads to grease build-up.

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2. Include more Vitamin B in your diet

Vitamin B contributes to the production and regulation of sebum levels. A deficiency in this can cause your body to react by producing more oil. Foods that are high in Vitamin B include whole grains, eggs, meat and dairy. You can also take Vitamin supplements, like this one from Vit Store.

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Vit Store Vitamin B Complex 180s

£2.00

3. Avoid straightening too often

Straightening your hair can make it appear greasier than it really is. That’s because it gives the oil a quick and easy path down the shaft of your hair. If you have naturally wavy or curly hair, we say embrace it!

4. Wash hair less often

We won’t repeat information you already know, but it’s good to know that limiting your washes to once every 2 to 3 days makes a real difference.

5. Rinse hair in cold water

A splash of cold water will close the pores on your scalp and hair cuticles, which prevents sebaceous glands from kicking into gear. If you shower in the mornings, this may even work as a substitute to coffee. There’s a thought.