Greasy hair is not always an indication of how well you maintain it. Usually, hair that has not been washed for long can get dirty and oily. However, if your hair appears greasy a day after washing it, you can blame the hyperactive sebaceous glands on your scalp. While having unclean hair can definitely cause it, greasy hair is typically the result of excess secretion of sebum by the sebaceous glands of the scalp.
Too much sebum production can make your hair dull, scalp itchy and cause excess dandruff production. In extreme cases, scalp acne, known as seborrheic dermatitis, can also develop. Here are 7 simple yet effective steps you can incorporate into your hair care routine to avoid your hair becoming too greasy.
1. Follow A Balanced Diet
Several studies have proven that the more dietary fat and carbs we consume, higher will be the sebum secretion by sebaceous glands. Ensure that your diet is complete with omega-3 fatty acids derived from chia seeds or seafood. Vitamin-E containing foods like almonds and spinach can also boost hair health. In addition to eating clean, it’s important that you drink lots of water to keep your scalp well-nourished.1
2. Shampoo Every Alternate Day At Least
If your hair’s healthy and oil-balanced, you don’t need to shampoo it more than 3 times in a week. But for folks with oily hair, it’s best to wash the hair daily with a mild anti-dandruff shampoo. Use shampoos that are organic and not loaded with sodium lauryl sulfates.
Shampooing every alternate day or daily will prevent excessive dandruff and oil from building up. This means hair will appear cleaner and healthier.2
3. Use An Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse
While washing your hair spray it with an ACV solution. Dilute 2–3 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in 1 cup of water and use it to rinse your hair. Rinse after 2–3 minutes. Researchers have found that apple cider vinegar has a strong antibacterial and antifungal action. This prevents the excessive growth of dandruff that causes an itchy scalp.3
4. Avoid Heavy Hair Products
Hair products that are oil-based are a strict no-no for greasy hair. Even while choosing a shampoo, go for the clear and translucent ones rather than the creamy ones. Look for light hairsprays and mousses for styling your hair. Use them after washing your hair once.4
5. Apply A Hair Pack Once In A Week
Homemade hair packs with ingredients that clarify the scalp and remove extra dandruff are very beneficial if applied once a week. To make a hair pack out of clay like fuller’s earth, just add 2 tablespoons of it in enough water and make a paste.
Apply the paste on your hair and leave it on for 30 minutes. On washing, your hair will appear much cleaner and feel lighter.
6. Use Tea Tree Oil For An Itchy Scalp
Tea tree oil is a miracle hair care essential oil. Adding 1o drops to every 8 ounces of oil or shampoo can enhance their therapeutic effects. With good antifungal and antibacterial properties, it can combat the fungi that cause dandruff without drying your scalp. On application, massage it for 3 minutes before you wash it away with water.5
7. Keep A Dry Shampoo Handy
Use a dry shampoo like baby powder or arrowroot powder to dust your hair if you are in a hurry with no time to wash your hair. Lightly sprinkle it on your scalp and brush it all over your hair. Your hair will appear less greasy and bouncier.
Waste no time and make these tiny changes to your hair care routine. You will be surprised at how much difference it makes to your oily hair and how well the health of your hair has improved.6
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