What Causes Oily Scalp?
A healthy scalp produces a certain amount of oil as a way to hydrate the scalp and protect the hair. However, when the scalp produces too much oil, it can make the hair look greasy. If you feel that your hair is oilier than it should be, finding out the root cause can help you reduce the oiliness. Here we will discuss some common causes of oily hair and what you can do to control excess oil production:
Here are some common causes of an oily scalp:
- Excessive sebum production
The scalp has small oil-producing glands called sebaceous glands. And the natural oil produced by your scalp is called sebum. Though sebum benefits hair, excessive sebum production causes oily hair. Genetics or hormonal imbalance (found during pregnancy, menopause, or puberty) or skin infections contribute to the overproduction of sebum, causing a scalp to become oily. If left untreated, excessive oil may clog the pores on the scalp. Clogged pores can prevent the growth of the hair follicles, leading to hair loss.
- Overwashing hair
It may sound counterintuitive but washing your hair too often can result in oily hair. Although jumping into the shower to get rid of that greasy hair may seem like the right decision, overwashing hair can strip the scalp of its natural oil. Moreover, every time you wash your hair, the scalp sends the signal to produce more sebum, resulting in the oil production overdrive.
- Excessive humidity
Humid and muggy weather can make everything feel sticky and your hair is no exception. Excessive humidity or too much heat can trigger an oily day for your hair. Though you cannot do much about the weather, keep your hands away from the hair. The dirt from hands gets easily transferred to the hair, making them look oily. Avoid going into saunas. Also, during humid months, rely on hair cleansing shampoos of a mild formulation that you can use a bit often and that help you get rid of oil from the scalp.
- Heat styling and wrong hair care products
Frequent heat styling and using harsh cleansers can further irritate an oily scalp, leading to excess build-up of oil. The use of heat tools and harsh products can dry out the scalp to the extent it needs to fight back. When the hair is too dry, the scalp responds by producing more oils.
Can an oily scalp cause hair loss?
Having an oily scalp increases the risk of hair fall. Excess oil can clog the pores, hindering the healthy growth of hair.
Prevent an oily scalp with a hair cleansing shampoo and conditioner
The Earth Collective hair cleanser and conditioner for oily hair gently work on the excess oil and cleanse the scalp. Our hair products have a non-greasy formula that soaks up only the excess oil. Our hair products do not remove all the natural oils released in the scalp but regulate them to ensure that your scalp is clean and your hair doesn’t dry out. For better results, follow our oily hair treatment regimen.